Spotted last week at my favorite Asian grocery superstore, Hong Kong Market (925 Behrman Highway, Gretna, LA):  a smaller, lid-less Big Green Egg cousin.

Priced at just $35, the charcoal cooker combines a thick terracotta base, metal housing, and rectangular lower air vent.  If price has kept you away from a kamado-style grill, this might be a wallet-friendly alternative to consider.

The open-topped device looks suitable for direct grilling or using as a wok stove, thanks to the specially shaped upper rim.   I’m sure a crafty person could figure out a suitable lid, make a draft door for the bottom, and convert it into a smoker.

A slightly smaller version, fashioned out of a metal bucket complete with a handle, is portable and picnic sized.