These 18cm bamboo skewers from Grill Fanatics are made for satay, brochettes and vegetable kebabs on the kamado. It's the short size: just enough for three or four pieces of meat, a few mushrooms or a row of prawns. Handy when you're putting together a table full of bites and don't want to give everyone half a meal on one skewer. Bamboo is light yet strong enough to carry a full skewer without bending.
How to work with 18cm bamboo skewers
Soak the skewers in a bowl of water for half an hour beforehand. Wet bamboo burns much more slowly, so the ends stay intact over the coals instead of burning away under your meat. Then thread the pieces on tightly: pieces packed against each other cook more evenly and don't spin loose around the skewer.
- 18 cm length, suited to small portions and starters
- Made of bamboo, light yet sturdy enough for a full skewer
- Fits comfortably on any kamado grate, even a half-moon one
- Ideal for satay, prawns, vegetables and pieces of cheese or fruit
- Soaking in water makes them withstand the heat over coals
On the kamado
Small kebabs cook quickly, so they suit direct grilling on high heat, with the grate low over the fire. Stay close by and turn them regularly. Working with a deflector? They'll cook more slowly, giving you more time to glaze with a marinade.
What to watch for
Bamboo skewers are single-use. After a session over the coals they're discoloured and weakened, so throw them away afterwards. Also never let the tips stick out beyond the meat over a fierce coal bed.
Need longer skewers for a full table? Check out the 30 cm bamboo skewers. Find the rest of your session gear in the BBQ tools, and to flavour your kebabs check out the rubs and sauces.
