Forget Barbecuing, Here’s Why We’re Smoking All Our Meats This Summer

If you like your meat smoked, then investing in your own personal smoker means you can perfect your own barbecue recipe and get delicious smoked meat any time of the year for a fraction of the price charged at restaurants.

When it comes to buying your own smoker, there are several factors to consider before making your purchase and putting yourself one step closer to earning the ‘Grill Master’ title on your apron. There are four types of smokers, including an Electric Smoker, Pellet Smoker, Gas Smoker, and Charcoal Smoker. In our list below, we’ve included two Electric Smokers and one Charcoal Smoker. Electric smokers tend to be easier to use and have a smaller learning curve, and they are also safer than traditional smokers. Electric smokers are more conducive to smoking meat year-round, while Charcoal smokers that are made from thin metal are unable to hold heat during cold months.

Charcoal smokers have what many consider a more traditional barbecue flavor. We also like Charcoal smokers because of the ability to alter the taste of your food. With Charcoal smokers that use wood chips as their fuel, different varieties can be paired with meats and vegetables to compliment the taste. Mild hickory chips match well with most types of meat, while apple wood is uniquely flavorful when added to pork or chicken. When smoking beef, mesquite chips and their strong smoke flavor make for a great duo, while Alder is ideal when smoking any type of fish.

When it comes to what to smoke, the possibilities are seemingly endless. While meat, including chicken, turkey, pork, beef, and fish are obvious for smoking, it’s easy to get creative with your smoker. Vegetables, eggs, even desserts like brownies and ice cream (yes – you can smoke ice cream) can make your smoker more versatile and useful.

If your mouth is already watering, then take a look at our three great smoker options below.