What size cast iron grid for Spider and Adj Rig?

mojo

I recently received my AR/Spider combo from Tom at ceramicgrillstore (thanks Tom if you're out there - the stuff was at my door the day after I placed the order!!!!).

I'm now jonesing for a cast iron grid or two. I believe I read that the small CI grid can be placed on top of the spider to sear steaks, etc. Is that correct? Is there any benefit for a large CI grid to sit atop the adjustable rig? Maybe a medium CI grid for one of the lower levels?

Also, is there an alternative to the Thirdhand for lifting out a hot CI grid? I can't use a Thirdhand since my large is built in to a stone cook counter and there's no where to hang the Thirdhand :( . Well, let me re-phrase that ... I could use the Thirdhand to lift it out, but then I'd just have to place the grid on top of something, like a ceramic paver or something.

Thanks!

Photo Egg

Hi Mike,
I would stick with the stainless grid Tom sells or the standard BGE grid for the upper. The cast iron grid will slide around on top the Rig as it has no stop points and could slide off. CI is great for searing but no real advantage in a high roasting position such as on top the Rig. I'm sure you could come up with a way to make the CI work on the upper level but just can't see a reason.
Any chance you will make the little get together in Plano?
darian

mojo

Darian,
Thanks for the reply. I saw there was something going on in Plano but unfortunately I have a previous committment. Definitely looking forward (already!) to next year's Texas Eggfest though.

PlanoPokes79

I got the 13 inch CI to sear on top of the spider and then move up to the top of the rigs ceramic grid. no need for the 18 inch CI IMHO....have fun.
Joe

thirdeye

Hey Mike,



You might want to check out a trivet or lid rest for Dutch oven cooking. They make a folding X style, and the one in this picture is a combination trivet, pot holder and lid rest.... but it also works good for a hot grate or CI skillet (or griddle) when it comes off the Egg.

BTW, if you get a medium or small CI grate, your ThirdHand won't work on them. But there is another tool that will.

mojo

Lemme guess thirdeye, a ThreeFinger perhaps?

tjv

small CI fits the spider now... prior to the 2008 change in fire ring's ID, the medium CI worked. medium no longer works.

If you do more than couple steaks, I suggest you stick with the large CI on the fire ring.....provides the necessary room to get a good sear.

I'm working on a few ideas to improve steak grilling, just not there yet. t

mojo

Thanks again Tom. Love your products!

thirdeye

It sure was easy to come up with the name.... Heheee.