High-Heat Searing for Deep Grill Marks

The Kamado Joe Big Joe Half Moon Cast Iron Cooking Grate is built for cooks who prioritize heat retention and restaurant-quality sear marks. Designed for the Big Joe Divide & Conquer Flexible Cooking System, this heavy-duty grate excels at high-heat applications where standard stainless steel falls short.

Primary Uses

• Upgrade or Replacement: A rugged, high-performance alternative to the standard 24" half-moon stainless steel grid
• High-Heat Searing: Superior heat conduction makes this the go-to choice for steaks, chops, and burgers that require a deep, professional crust
• Multi-Zone Expansion: Pair with a stainless grate or soapstone on the other side to create a versatile two-zone cooking setup

What This Means When You Cook

• Superior Thermal Mass: Thick cast iron stays hotter longer, helping maintain surface temperature when cold food is added
• Professional Sear Marks: The wide, heavy bars create the classic grill pattern while locking in flavor and moisture
• Seasoned Performance: Like a cast iron skillet, this grate improves with every cook, building a natural non-stick surface over time

Optimizing Your Cast Iron Cook

For a proper sear or blackened finish, cast iron needs to absorb serious heat. At CGS, we recommend keeping cast iron close to the fire—at the top of the firebox or even inside the firebox when possible.

Staying low lets the fire do less work while delivering stronger, more direct heat to the cast iron.

Pre-Cook Routine

Start with a clean surface, then lightly oil the cast iron before adding your food. This does two things:

• Helps prevent sticking—especially if you flip too early
• Makes cleanup much easier after the cook

Center Your Cook

Cook toward the middle of the grill, where the charcoal bed is deepest and most uniform. This is where heat is most concentrated and consistent, giving you a better, more even sear.

Move When Flipping

When it’s time to flip, move your food to a fresh section of the cast iron. The first side pulls heat from the metal—shifting to a new, fully heated spot ensures the second side sears just as well.

Technical Specifications

• Material: Heavy-duty, pre-seasoned Cast Iron
• Size: 24-inch diameter (half-moon)
• Compatibility: Fits Kamado Joe Big Joe Series Grills

CGS Pro Tip: To maintain your cast iron, apply a light coat of high-smoke-point oil (like grapeseed) after your cook while the grate is still warm. This helps prevent rust and keeps the surface ready for your next high-heat sear.

Brand Compatibility & Trademark Notice

Since 2005, Ceramic Grill Store (CGS) has been an independent manufacturer and retailer of kamado grill accessories.

CGS is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or owned by 26North Partners LP or Kamado Joe. All brand names, logos, and trademarks are used solely for compatibility and product identification purposes.