The Big Green Egg, a name synonymous with versatility and exceptional cooking, has become a staple in outdoor kitchens across the globe. Its distinctive egg shape and superior heat retention capabilities make it a favorite among grilling enthusiasts. But before you rush out to purchase one, understanding its dimensions is crucial. This article dives deep into the specific width of the Medium Big Green Egg, providing comprehensive details to help you plan your outdoor cooking space.
Understanding the Big Green Egg Sizes
The Big Green Egg comes in a range of sizes, each catering to different cooking needs and spaces. From the compact Mini to the expansive 2XL, there’s an Egg for every cook. Knowing the dimensions of each size is vital for determining which model best fits your lifestyle and available space. The Medium Big Green Egg strikes a sweet spot, offering ample cooking space without overwhelming smaller patios or balconies.
Delving into the Dimensions of the Medium Big Green Egg
Let’s get down to the specifics. When considering the width of a Medium Big Green Egg, it’s important to differentiate between the diameter of the cooking grid and the overall width of the assembled Egg, especially when placed within a nest or table.
The Cooking Grid Diameter
The cooking grid, the surface on which your food sits, is a primary indicator of cooking capacity. The Medium Big Green Egg boasts a cooking grid diameter of approximately 15 inches (38 cm). This offers sufficient space to cook for a family of four to six people.
The Overall Width: Beyond the Grid
While the cooking grid diameter provides a sense of cooking space, the overall width of the Medium Big Green Egg is essential for planning its placement in your outdoor area. The actual width, including the hinge, handle, and any other protruding elements, is approximately 21 inches (53 cm). This measurement is crucial when considering whether it will fit comfortably on your patio, in an outdoor kitchen island, or within a Big Green Egg nest.
Why Width Matters: Planning Your Outdoor Cooking Space
Understanding the width of the Medium Big Green Egg is more than just a matter of curiosity; it’s essential for effective space planning. Consider these factors when determining if the Medium Egg is the right fit for you.
Space Requirements: Nest or Table?
The dimensions provided above apply to the Egg itself. However, most users opt to place their Big Green Egg within a nest (a metal stand) or integrate it into a custom-built table. Nests and tables will significantly increase the overall footprint of the Egg.
- Nests: Big Green Egg nests add stability and mobility. A nest designed for the Medium Egg will typically increase the overall width to approximately 25-27 inches.
- Tables: Custom-built tables offer a more integrated and permanent solution. The width of the table will depend entirely on your design but should accommodate the Egg with sufficient clearance for ventilation and safety.
Considering Clearance: Heat and Safety
Remember to factor in clearance around the Egg for safe operation. The Big Green Egg generates significant heat, and ensuring adequate space around it prevents accidental burns and damage to surrounding structures. A minimum of 6-12 inches of clearance on all sides is recommended.
Visualizing the Space: Marking it Out
Before making a purchase, take a moment to visualize the Medium Big Green Egg in your desired location. Use a measuring tape and mark out the dimensions, including the nest or table, to get a clear understanding of how it will fit and how much space it will occupy.
Comparing the Medium Egg to Other Sizes
The Medium Big Green Egg holds a unique position in the lineup. Understanding its dimensions relative to other sizes can help you make the right choice for your needs.
Medium vs. Small: Balancing Space and Capacity
The Small Big Green Egg is more compact, with a cooking grid of around 13 inches. While its smaller footprint makes it ideal for tight spaces, it offers less cooking capacity than the Medium. If you frequently cook for larger groups, the Medium is a better choice.
Medium vs. Large: The Sweet Spot
The Large Big Green Egg is a popular choice, offering a generous cooking grid of approximately 18 inches. However, its larger size also means a greater overall width, typically around 26 inches without a nest or table. The Medium provides a good balance between cooking capacity and space requirements, making it a versatile option for many users.
Factors Influencing Perceived Width
While the stated dimensions offer a precise measurement, several factors can influence how wide the Medium Big Green Egg feels in your space.
The Visual Impact: Color and Design
The dark green color of the Big Green Egg can make it appear visually heavier and more prominent. Consider this when assessing its impact on your outdoor area. Lighter-colored nests or tables can help to offset the visual weight.
The Surrounding Environment: Clutter and Openness
A cluttered patio can make even a modestly sized Egg feel overwhelming. Maintaining a clean and organized outdoor space will create a sense of openness and make the Egg feel less intrusive.
Optimizing Space: Tips for Integrating Your Medium Big Green Egg
Even if your space is limited, there are several strategies you can use to effectively integrate a Medium Big Green Egg into your outdoor cooking area.
Choosing the Right Nest or Table
Opt for a nest or table that is specifically designed for the Medium Big Green Egg. These accessories are engineered to provide optimal support and stability while minimizing the overall footprint. Consider a table with built-in storage to maximize functionality.
Vertical Storage: Utilizing Wall Space
If floor space is limited, consider utilizing vertical storage solutions for accessories and tools. Wall-mounted shelves or racks can free up valuable space around the Egg.
Folding Tables: Adaptable Surfaces
Folding tables provide a versatile surface for food preparation and serving. They can be easily folded away when not in use, maximizing space in smaller areas.
Conclusion: Is the Medium Big Green Egg the Right Fit for You?
The Medium Big Green Egg offers a compelling combination of cooking capacity and manageable size. With a cooking grid diameter of approximately 15 inches and an overall width of around 21 inches (excluding nest or table), it strikes a balance between versatility and space efficiency. By carefully considering your cooking needs, available space, and the factors outlined in this article, you can confidently determine whether the Medium Big Green Egg is the perfect addition to your outdoor cooking experience. Remember to always prioritize safety and allow for adequate clearance around the Egg for optimal performance and enjoyment.
Hopefully, this detailed analysis helps you to get a clear idea of how wide the Medium Big Green Egg is.
What is the overall width of a Medium Big Green Egg, including the hinge and handle?
The overall width of a Medium Big Green Egg, when considering the full span including its hinge and handle, is approximately 30 inches (76.2 cm). This measurement accounts for the widest points, ensuring you have enough clearance in your outdoor kitchen or grilling area for comfortable operation.
Keep in mind that this is an approximate figure. While the egg itself maintains consistent dimensions, slight variations in the hinge and handle placement can occur. It’s always a good idea to leave a little extra room around the grill, especially if you plan on using side tables or other accessories.
What is the diameter of the Medium Big Green Egg’s cooking grid?
The cooking grid, or grilling surface, of the Medium Big Green Egg boasts a diameter of 15 inches (38 cm). This provides a generous cooking area for various grilling and smoking tasks, suitable for families or smaller gatherings.
This 15-inch diameter translates to approximately 177 square inches of cooking space. It’s ideal for cooking several burgers, a whole chicken, or multiple steaks at once. You can also expand the cooking area using multi-level cooking racks and accessories.
How much counter space do I need to accommodate a Medium Big Green Egg in an Egg Nest?
When placing a Medium Big Green Egg in an Egg Nest, you’ll need approximately 25 inches (63.5 cm) of width for the Egg Nest itself. The Egg Nest is designed to provide a stable and secure base, elevating the Egg to a comfortable cooking height.
Remember to factor in additional space around the Egg Nest for maneuvering and accessing the grill. A total width of around 35-40 inches would be ideal to ensure comfortable use and prevent the grill from feeling cramped in your outdoor cooking area. Also, ensure sufficient depth, generally around 30 inches, to accommodate the Egg Nest and Egg.
What is the exterior diameter of the ceramic shell of the Medium Big Green Egg?
The exterior diameter of the Medium Big Green Egg’s ceramic shell, at its widest point, is approximately 18.25 inches (46.4 cm). This measurement is crucial when considering the internal dimensions of custom-built grilling stations or carts.
This diameter represents the actual width of the ceramic body itself, excluding any protruding hardware like the hinge or handle. Knowing this dimension will help you determine the necessary cutout size if you plan to integrate the Egg into a table or other enclosure.
Does the size of the Medium Big Green Egg make it portable?
While technically portable, the Medium Big Green Egg is not ideally suited for frequent or long-distance travel due to its weight and ceramic construction. It can be moved within your backyard or to a nearby location with care.
Its weight, around 114 pounds (52 kg), and the fragility of the ceramic material necessitate careful handling. While you can transport it, it’s more practical to consider smaller, dedicated portable grills for camping or extended trips. Short moves, especially with assistance, are achievable, but prioritize safety.
How does the width of the Medium Big Green Egg compare to other sizes of Big Green Eggs?
The Medium Big Green Egg is narrower than the Large and XLarge Big Green Eggs. The Large Egg, for instance, has a wider exterior diameter of around 21 inches, requiring more space. The Small and MiniMax Eggs are narrower, offering greater portability.
Choosing the right size depends on your cooking needs and space constraints. The Medium provides a good balance between cooking capacity and footprint, making it suitable for many households. If you frequently cook for large groups, the Large or XLarge might be a better choice. If space is a premium, consider the Small or MiniMax.
What cooking accessories might extend the overall width needed for a Medium Big Green Egg?
Several cooking accessories can extend the overall width you’ll need for your Medium Big Green Egg. Side tables, for example, can add significant width for prepping food or holding tools. Also, accessories like the EGGspander system with multi-level cooking grates and Dutch ovens, although housed within the Egg, might require extra clearance when opening the dome and accessing the food.
When planning your setup, consider the accessories you plan to use regularly. For instance, if you frequently use side tables, factor in their width when determining the overall space requirements. Always allow for extra room to safely and comfortably maneuver around the Egg, especially when using multiple accessories simultaneously.