Whether you’re a new Orion Outdoor Cooker owner or just kicking the tires, you may have some questions. Our goal has always been to create a product that delivers the best possible taste in the quickest possible time.
The challenge is being able to achieve those objectives without sacrificing flavor and quality. What allows the Orion Outdoor Cooker to stand out in a crowded field of competitors is its ability to do just that, but in far less time.
It really is that simple. We are committed to delivering an excellent experience in every way. That includes cooking, eating and service. So, here are a few common questions we get.
What is the Orion Cooker composed of?
The Orion Outdoor Cooker and all attachments are made using 100% food-grade stainless steel. After using the Cooker several times, the steel will begin to darken. This is normal and safe, and is caused by the smoke on the inside of the cooking cylinder as well as the heat and ash from the coals on the outside. This will in no way diminish the quality or performance of the Outdoor Cooker.
Does the Orion Outdoor Cooker come with any accessories?
When you purchase an Orion Outdoor Cooker, three attachments are included. You will receive three rib hangers, three cooking grates, and a turkey post and lifting handle. Along with the attachments, you will receive a cookbook and a user manual.
How do you clean the Orion Outdoor Cooker?
We recommend cleaning the attachments and drip pan after every use.
Even this is simple!
Just rinse them in the sink and place them in the dishwasher. If you want to clean the interior of the cooker, pour liquid dish soap in the bottom of the cooking cylinder then, using a bucket, pour warm water into the cylinder, stopping once the rib receptacles are submerged.
Allow to soak for 20 to 25 minutes, then pour out the soup and water and scrub the interior of the cooking cylinder using a plastic scouring pad (do not use SOS or Brillo pads, as these are too abrasive). When finished, use paper towels or a rag to dry the cooker.
We do not recommend cleaning the exterior of the cooker.
Do you have to remove the charcoal from the upper and lower charcoal rings after every use?
Yes. Once the charcoal has completely cooled, scrape the remaining coals and ash into a pan. Be sure you also dump the charcoal and ash from the upper ring into the pan.
If charcoal and ash get wet and touch the steel, it can cause it to degrade at an accelerated rate.
How do you remove the ashes from the Outdoor Cooker?
To remove the ashes from the lower ring, simply slide the ash door out and scrape the coals out the opening using the door flap. We do recommend purchasing a tin pan to scrape the used ashes into.
Are there any flames on the inside of the Orion Outdoor Cooker?
No, the heat source comes from coals located at two areas on the outside of the cooker.
What does the fire on top of the Orion accomplish?
The fire on top of the Orion Outdoor Cooker is part of our patent-pending cooking technology that produces the convection current inside the cooking cylinder.
Do the lid handles get hot?
The handles are made of coiled steel, which dissipates heat. This prevents the handles from getting hot. They are similar to the handles found on a Dutch Oven.
Where do you place the wood chips?
If you choose to add wood chips they should be placed between the drip pan and the inside wall of the cooking cylinder. The heat from the charcoal in the lower ring causes the chips to smoke when they are against the inside wall.
Do not place wood chips beneath the drip pan. This will not damage the cooker, but it will not produce the desired effect.
Do you have to soak the wood chips prior to cooking?
No, the wood chips do not need to be soaked. The cooking cylinder is completely enclosed, so avery little smoke will escape.
The chips will not need to be replaced, as they will last the duration of each cook.
Can you put liquid in the drip pan or does it have to stay dry?
We only recommend adding liquid to the drip pan for beef briskets, fish and other seafood. Since the meat is completely enclosed in the cooking cylinder, moisture from the meat drips down into the pan, causing it to steam and preventing it from drying out.
Do you need to cook on the Orion before using it to cook food?
It’s not necessary, but we do recommend washing all accessories prior to cooking with them. All attachments are dishwasher safe.
Should you use instant light charcoal or regular charcoal?
We recommend using instant light charcoal, as this will make the cooking process easier for you. Cook times will also be more accurate using instant light charcoal.
If you remove the lid before the designated time, will it affect the cooking?
Yes. If you remove the lid before the designated cook time, the cook times will be affected. This will disrupt the convection current and allow heat to escape the cooking cylinder.
Does cold weather affect cooking times?
Not to our knowledge.
Does wind affect cooking times?
Yes. Substantial winds will cause the briquettes to burn faster than normal. In these situations, additional coals may be needed to complete the cook.
Can you use the Orion indoors?
Using the Cooker indoors can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, even in well-ventilated areas. Therefore, we recommend it only be used outdoors.
Another safety note to consider — do not light the cooker near any flammable objects,
How do you know when the food you’re cooking is done?
Cook times for the Orion Outdoor Cooker are listed in the cookbook and manual that comes with each unit. Although these times are accurate, be sure to check all meat with a thermometer to ensure it is done.
Hopefully this helps, but if you’re question didn’t get answered here, feel free to reach out using the Contact Us page on the Orion Outdoor Cooker website.