In the outdoor cooking scene, there can be nothing that would be comparable to the rich, smoky tastes of a well-smoked piece of meat. The grilling industry has been rocked by the arrival of BBQ smokers which has changed backyard cooks into chefs. Regardless of whether it is juicy brisket or juicy ribs, a good smoker can make your home grilling experience the new enchanted level.
Smoking presents a distinctive method of adding flavor and low and slow cooking of meats to melt in your mouth. However, with all possible and existing products that are in the market today how do you know which one fits you? Fear not! We will touch upon all sorts of types of smokers to the best of the best that will turn your next cookout into a meal to remember in this guide. You should be prepared to put on those coals and feed your family and friends with delicious meals off the grill!
Types of BBQ smokers (offset, vertical, electric, pellet)
BBQ smokers are available in different models that meet different tastes and abilities.
Traditionalists tend to prefer the use of offset smokers. They have a separate firebox, which makes it possible to use indirect heat, which contributes to full flavors and spreads smoke.
Vertical smokers are smaller and efficient. Their design utilizes as much vertical space as possible hence is suitable in small backyards and still provides juicy meats.
Electric smokers are easy and convenient. All you need to do is to plug, set and leave the technology to do all the work- ideal in the hands of beginners or those that are interested in cooking hassle-free.
Pellet smokers are the solution between electric and charcoal. They smoked on wood pellets and have automated temperature features. Such versatility has rendered them more and more popular among people who want to take their backyard BBQ game to the next level. They are both charming, and it will be your personal decision, according to your level of grilling experience.
Factors to consider when choosing a BBQ smoker
A number of factors are involved when one is choosing a smoker of BBQ. First, think about the size. Think of how much you are going to cook and the number of people you usually entertain.
Next, examine the fuel type. Charcoal, wood, propane, or electricity are used by different smokers. They all have their own tastes and cooking experiences.
Control of temperature is also essential. There are those smokers which have in-built thermometers that analyze the heat level, whereas others need manual adjustments.
Durability matters too. Outdoor use- Outdoor outdoor should have materials capable of withstanding weather conditions throughout the year.
Consider your budget. Smokers are available in different price categories, and it is necessary to find the one that is capable of fulfilling your requirements at a decent price. The compromise between quality and price will guarantee you pleasant memories of your smoking escapades.
Top 5 BBQ smokers on the market (description and features)
Classic is the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker. Its charcoal design gives it a grill taste that most grillers would appreciate. It has two cooking grates and you can smoke several items at a time.
Of the next is the Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill. It is ideal to those who seek flexibility. This smoker would enable you to quickly alternate between smoking and grilling at controlled temperatures.
In the case of electric fans, there is the Masterbuilt Electric Smoker. It is easy to use and effective with digitalized controls and plenty of room to fit huge portions of meat.
The Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Smoker is recommended in case you are looking at something small but strong. Its vertical structure has an optimal circulation of heat and offers enough space to your favorite meats.
Camp Chef Woodwind Wi-Fi pellet grill is both an innovative and a traditional product. It has an inbuilt Wi-Fi and thus you can be able to monitor your grilling wherever you are as you have an app on your phone.
Delicious recipes to try with your new BBQ smoker
You finally have the right smoker of the BBQ now it is time to put it into good use. The following are some of the mouth watering recipes that will bring your grilling to the next level and will leave your family and friends happy.
Begin with made smoked ribs. An irresistible dry rub, consisting of brown sugar, paprika, and garlic powder is used. Roast them keeping it low and slow several hours until tender perfection is achieved.
A whole smoked chicken is the next one. Wet it in the night to be more moist, and marinate it with your preferred spices afterwards and put it in the smoker. The result? Fat meat and crispy skin makes everyone go back to the second serving.
Make a unique one with smoked salmon. Light wood such as apple or cherry is used to add some light sweetness. The food is served well with cream cheese on bagels or on a charcuterie board.
And vegetables, do not forget about vegetables! Corn on the cob is also delicious when smoked with your other food. Simply add butter and seasoning when smoked as a nice side dish.
Add any homemade BBQ sauce in the final hour of cooking any form of meat to add in an assertive flavor into the meat itself and caramelize on the surface quite beautifully.
These recipes will also make you well prepared to prepare delicious food with your new BBQ smoker! Have fun and enjoy grilling!