AudioCircle

Community => Non-audio hobbies and interests => The Culinary Circle => Topic started by: PeteG on 8 Jun 2008, 10:16 pm

Title: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 8 Jun 2008, 10:16 pm
I’ve smoked meats in different grills and semi-smokers (brinkman) but never a true smoker until now.
The best luck I’ve had with charcoal and gas grills was to have one side set at the lowest heat
setting and put the meat on the other side, get a big sheet of aluminum foil put some wet hickory chips
in it and wrap it up in a ball poke some holes in it and put it on the heat side of the grill, 4 or so hours later you got some good smoked meat.

But now since I picked up a Masterbuilt smoker I have great smoked meat with unbelievable taste
and very moist, some of the best ribs I have ever eaten. 
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=14793)

Masterbuilt Link (http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_97587_350005001_350000000_350005000?cm_ven=bazaarvoice&cm_cat=RLP&cm_pla=97587&cm_ite=productname_link)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Rob Babcock on 8 Jun 2008, 10:25 pm
Looks real good.  Does it use compressed wood pellets or something else?
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PhilNYC on 8 Jun 2008, 11:03 pm
Here's mine:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=14805)


http://www.weber.com/grills/?glid=8&mid=27

  Charcoal smoker

  2 heavy-duty, plated-steel, cooking grates
 
  Two 18.5 inch diameter cooking areas
 
  Premium grade cover 

  Porcelain-enameled bowl, lid, and waterpan
 
  No-rust aluminum vent
 
  No-rust aluminum fuel door
 
  1 Glass-reinforced nylon handle

  Height: 41 inches
 
  Width R-L: 19 inches
 
  Depth: 19 inches
 

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 8 Jun 2008, 11:07 pm
Looks real good.  Does it use compressed wood pellets or something else?

It just uses regular wood chips that you insert from the side without opening the sealed door.
I was going to get a Bradley smoker that uses wood bisquettes. But they run $21 a box, so it comes out to $10 every time you use it. I can get a big bag of hickory, apple and mesquite for $4.35ea and it will last 5 or 6 times.  Plus with the side wood chip loader you control how much smoke you want, I do a 3-2-1 method, 3hrs of smoke -2hrs wrapped -1hr unwrapped with low heat (200* F). 
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bigfish on 8 Jun 2008, 11:25 pm
I have an extra tall Grill Dome Smoker.  Check them out here:  http://www.grilldome.com/  I have smoked/grilled numerous types of meat.  It burns lump charcoal and will hold 225 F for 30 hours on one filling of charcoal.  This is the best grill/smoker I have ever owned!

Ken
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: some young guy on 9 Jun 2008, 05:37 pm
Here's what I use:

(http://c.myspace.com/Groups/00022/57/49/22789475_l.jpg)

The side box is great. I can cold smoke by only having a small fire on the side and channeling the smoke into the larger section via the vent, or I can easily control warmer temps by having a coal bed in the large section and using the vents.

The side box is also handy for extra stuff like that chicken you can't quite fit on the grill with a ll the ribs.

(http://c.myspace.com/Groups/00022/68/49/22789486_l.jpg)

(http://a735.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/87/l_dc176d2f517a48e8b8d5e2f9b1b7bd2e.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: some young guy on 9 Jun 2008, 06:00 pm
I have a friend with one of these and they are incredible:

http://www.kamado.com/

I have a no name (large) egg shape that is similar, but much more modest in every way.
(http://www.kamado.com/ebay/ebayPx/7HiltonGd2.jpg)

Wow, I don't know how well they work, but they sure do look nice!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: mgalusha on 9 Jun 2008, 06:11 pm
Here's what I use:

(http://c.myspace.com/Groups/00022/57/49/22789475_l.jpg)

My wife brought home of these last week and said happy fathers day. A bit early but she wanted to use a discount coupon. It's replacing a Brinkman that looks like capsule.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PhilNYC on 9 Jun 2008, 06:33 pm
I am certainly jealous of all you guys with the ceramic vertical smokers...! :notworthy:

Am curious about the horizontal barrel/offset smokers...I've heard that the main difference between models is in the venting options that allow you to control the airflow, and that the cheaper models (eg. brinkman) don't have enough vents...leading to uneven temperature inside the barrel (ie. hotter near the coal-box, cooler near the top vent).  What models do you guys have, and do you find any problems controlling the uniformity of the heat?
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: some young guy on 9 Jun 2008, 07:28 pm
I am certainly jealous of all you guys with the ceramic vertical smokers...! :notworthy:

Am curious about the horizontal barrel/offset smokers...I've heard that the main difference between models is in the venting options that allow you to control the airflow, and that the cheaper models (eg. brinkman) don't have enough vents...leading to uneven temperature inside the barrel (ie. hotter near the coal-box, cooler near the top vent).  What models do you guys have, and do you find any problems controlling the uniformity of the heat?

I have the Char Griller Pro. The heat is very even, unless of coarse you have a fire going on one side of the main compartment.  :roll: But even then, it's fine with indirect heating. I haven't had any issues with it aside from the way the rotisserie mounts. It doesn't allow you to oper the door to the side box without removing one of the mounting brackets.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: MarkR7 on 11 Jun 2008, 12:46 am
Hey, I've got one of these genuine Kamados (have owned it for 12+ years).  It's not as pretty as this one since mine is sans mosiac tiles (I have the plain terre cotta finish).  It is the most versatile grill I've ever used.  No problems with smoking a couple of 6 lb. pork butts or briskets for 16 to 18 hours at 225 degrees on one good load of lump.  And no problem with searing and dwelling some nice thick porterhouse steaks at close to 1000 degrees! :drool:  And of course everything in between is fair game.  The thing has been outside in the Chicago elements all this time, and it has held up extremely well.  I just need to get a new firebox before mine falls apart (another year?).


I have a friend with one of these and they are incredible:

http://www.kamado.com/

I have a no name (large) egg shape that is similar, but much more modest in every way.
(http://www.kamado.com/ebay/ebayPx/7HiltonGd2.jpg)

Wow, I don't know how well they work, but they sure do look nice!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bigfish on 11 Jun 2008, 01:28 am
I am certainly jealous of all you guys with the ceramic vertical smokers...! :notworthy:

Am curious about the horizontal barrel/offset smokers...I've heard that the main difference between models is in the venting options that allow you to control the airflow, and that the cheaper models (eg. brinkman) don't have enough vents...leading to uneven temperature inside the barrel (ie. hotter near the coal-box, cooler near the top vent).  What models do you guys have, and do you find any problems controlling the uniformity of the heat?

Phil:

Once you ever take the plunge for a ceramic vertical smoker you will wish you had not waited.  With my grill dome extra tall I can hang a grate below the main grate and can install a third grate over the main grate.  On the lower grate I use fire brick when I want to slow cook a butt, turkey or somthing.  On the main grate I can load with fook and do the same on the top grate.  When the food is placed on the grates of the coarse the fire is just smoldering to generate a temperature of 200 to 225 F.  I shut the dome and then adjust the top vent and bottom vent until the temperature stays where I want it.  It usually takes me about an hour to finally get the vents adjusted prefectly and then the temperature will hold for believe it or not for 20 to 24 hours without touching it.  I use a remote therometer to monitor the inside grill tempt and the meat tempt.  You can buy a draft control unit (fan and thermostat controlled) but I don't need one with my grill.  Slow cooked food comes out moist and delicious. 

Both the Big Green Egg and Grill Dome Websites have user forums.  If you visit you will quickly verify that people really love these grills!

Ken
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Christof on 11 Jun 2008, 01:29 am
I'm using a Brinkmann Cimarron Deluxe pit these days, it's thicker 1/4" steel than the less expensive Lowes/HD/Menards standard horizontal smokers, which IMO are quite frustrating.  The added mass makes quite a difference in the pit's ability to hold heat.  Here is a good review of a few different smokers, the Cimarron (http://www.amazingribs.com/BBQ_buyers_guide/smokers/charcoal_smokers.html) is about half way down the page. 

Could always DIY  :wink:

(http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1026/1020163164_0bb5764e08.jpg?v=0)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PhilNYC on 11 Jun 2008, 05:03 pm
Phil:

Once you ever take the plunge for a ceramic vertical smoker you will wish you had not waited.  With my grill dome extra tall I can hang a grate below the main grate and can install a third grate over the main grate.  On the lower grate I use fire brick when I want to slow cook a butt, turkey or somthing.  On the main grate I can load with fook and do the same on the top grate.  When the food is placed on the grates of the coarse the fire is just smoldering to generate a temperature of 200 to 225 F.  I shut the dome and then adjust the top vent and bottom vent until the temperature stays where I want it.  It usually takes me about an hour to finally get the vents adjusted prefectly and then the temperature will hold for believe it or not for 20 to 24 hours without touching it.  I use a remote therometer to monitor the inside grill tempt and the meat tempt.  You can buy a draft control unit (fan and thermostat controlled) but I don't need one with my grill.  Slow cooked food comes out moist and delicious. 

Both the Big Green Egg and Grill Dome Websites have user forums.  If you visit you will quickly verify that people really love these grills!

Ken

Yeah, I know...I've been eyeing the Big Green Egg and others for quite a while, mostly impressed by their heat efficiency and control.  But I will say that there is something endearing about my low-tech Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker.  It's got two grate levels for cooking more stuff, and the water bowl is a great contributor for both flavor and moisture.  The main problem I have with it is having to adjust things depending on the weather...I use it year-round, and I definitely find significant differences in temperature management and cook-time depending on if it's 32 degree and dry outside versus 96 degrees and humid.  My understanding is that this is less of an issue with the ceramic smokers...
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Anglo on 11 Jun 2008, 05:14 pm
Here's what I use:

(http://c.myspace.com/Groups/00022/57/49/22789475_l.jpg)

The side box is great. I can cold smoke by only having a small fire on the side and channeling the smoke into the larger section via the vent, or I can easily control warmer temps by having a coal bed in the large section and using the vents.

The side box is also handy for extra stuff like that chicken you can't quite fit on the grill with a ll the ribs.

(http://c.myspace.com/Groups/00022/68/49/22789486_l.jpg)

(http://a735.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/87/l_dc176d2f517a48e8b8d5e2f9b1b7bd2e.jpg)




Hi

I have this very same smoker.  I also want to cold smoke but I am not following you when you say you can cold smoke on this particular smoker.  I thought I had a very good imagination, but looks like I don't LOL!!

Can you explain precisely how you cold smoke with this smoker?

Many thanks in advance!

Steve
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: some young guy on 11 Jun 2008, 05:22 pm
Hi

I have this very same smoker.  I also want to cold smoke but I am not following you when you say you can cold smoke on this particular smoker.  I thought I had a very good imagination, but looks like I don't LOL!!

Can you explain precisely how you cold smoke with this smoker?

Many thanks in advance!

Steve

I get a small coal bed going in the small compartment. I put a large pan of ice on the bottom of the large compartment, then replace the grates. I put the wood chips of choice on the fire, let them burn a bit and close it up. Then just put your protein in the large compartment, close the lid and you're cold smoking. It actually works very well. I had designed a set-up with a smokey jo that used tubing to plumb the smoke into a small refrigerator that had a vent on top. This has proven to be less delicate, but much easier.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: sts9fan on 11 Jun 2008, 05:24 pm
I too have been eying a XL green egg but I am not sure it is big enough.  I currently use a plain ole 24" webber which I love but would like more space to get the whole meal out at once with larger parties.  The XL is 24" so its a step up in function but no more square inches. 
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: some young guy on 11 Jun 2008, 05:27 pm
I too have been eying a XL green egg but I am not sure it is big enough.  I currently use a plain ole 24" webber which I love but would like more space to get the whole meal out at once with larger parties.  The XL is 24" so its a step up in function but no more square inches. 
Sounds like you need one of these... http://vidaliagrill.com/model1396.shtml# (http://vidaliagrill.com/model1396.shtml#)

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: sts9fan on 11 Jun 2008, 05:32 pm
Damn straight I do! $3.5k not bad! :duh: 
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Anglo on 11 Jun 2008, 08:23 pm
Hi

I have this very same smoker.  I also want to cold smoke but I am not following you when you say you can cold smoke on this particular smoker.  I thought I had a very good imagination, but looks like I don't LOL!!

Can you explain precisely how you cold smoke with this smoker?

Many thanks in advance!

Steve

I get a small coal bed going in the small compartment. I put a large pan of ice on the bottom of the large compartment, then replace the grates. I put the wood chips of choice on the fire, let them burn a bit and close it up. Then just put your protein in the large compartment, close the lid and you're cold smoking. It actually works very well. I had designed a set-up with a smokey jo that used tubing to plumb the smoke into a small refrigerator that had a vent on top. This has proven to be less delicate, but much easier.

Thanks!

O.K., but doesn't the fire melt the ice incredibly fast or am I missing the most obvious here? :oops:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: some young guy on 11 Jun 2008, 10:55 pm
Hi

I have this very same smoker.  I also want to cold smoke but I am not following you when you say you can cold smoke on this particular smoker.  I thought I had a very good imagination, but looks like I don't LOL!!

Can you explain precisely how you cold smoke with this smoker?

Many thanks in advance!

Steve

I get a small coal bed going in the small compartment. I put a large pan of ice on the bottom of the large compartment, then replace the grates. I put the wood chips of choice on the fire, let them burn a bit and close it up. Then just put your protein in the large compartment, close the lid and you're cold smoking. It actually works very well. I had designed a set-up with a smokey jo that used tubing to plumb the smoke into a small refrigerator that had a vent on top. This has proven to be less delicate, but much easier.

Thanks!

O.K., but doesn't the fire melt the ice incredibly fast or am I missing the most obvious here? :oops:

No, it doesn't get that hot in the larger compartment. Besides, you shouldn't need to smoke all that long for things that get cold smoked. Somewhere around here, I have some pix of an Enviropac smoker that I used to work with. Now that was a real smoker. You could walk in to it. It had an external burner that pumped smoke into the main unit. It had a wet-bulb... the thing was completely controllable, but it also cost about $42k. This set-up with the grill works well enough for me now.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: some young guy on 11 Jun 2008, 10:56 pm
Damn straight I do! $3.5k not bad! :duh: 
Oh sorry, were you saving that dough for a new power cable?  :lol:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Philistine on 12 Jun 2008, 12:15 am
I checked out Kamado and stumbled across this:

http://www.kamadofraudforum.org/

Googling Kamado generates more than enough negative stuff to make me nervous.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Jibara on 12 Jun 2008, 12:51 am
this is one i use.http://store.cookshack.com/p-126-fast-eddys-by-cookshack-fec100.aspx
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: nrenter on 12 Jun 2008, 01:35 am
For those who want to dabble without dropping a lot of coin:

http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10151&catalogId=10001&langId=-1&partNumber=63366&hvarTarget=search&cmCat=SearchResults

Sure it takes a bit of attention and is difficult to maintain an even / consistant temperature, but for less than $40, you can't beat it with a stick.

Well...actually you can beat it with a stick. Try that with your mega-buck smokers.  :nono:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: samplesj on 12 Jun 2008, 12:36 pm
I checked out Kamado and stumbled across this:

http://www.kamadofraudforum.org/

Googling Kamado generates more than enough negative stuff to make me nervous.
Its been like that forever.  I "tried" to order a kamado a couple of years back in their "last big sale before dealers".  After six months of no contact (even when I tried to contact them) I finally said forget it and canceled the order.  Luckily for me I never even got charged for the first half (just didn't put in my order vs their normal slowness).

I've got a GrillDome now and love it.  The Kamados look so much nicer in pictures, but at the end of the day its just a grill (not a work of art).  Both my wife and my nearby sister (and they are two of the penny pinchingest people I know) say this was easily the best oddball purchase I've ever made.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 12 Jun 2008, 01:27 pm
Home Depot sells these on the less expensive side - are they any good?

Orion Stainless Steel Cooker ($139)
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100402905 (http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100402905)

Brinkman Square Smoker ($59)
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100606045 (http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100606045)

Lowes carries these - same question

another Brinkman, but different style ($49)
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=95542-000000447-852-7080-E&lpage=none (http://another Brinkman, but different style ($49)
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=95542-000000447-852-7080-E&lpage=none)

Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: nullspace on 12 Jun 2008, 02:17 pm
Home Depot sells these on the less expensive side - are they any good?

Lowes carries these - same question

another Brinkman, but different style ($49)
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=95542-000000447-852-7080-E&lpage=none (http://another Brinkman, but different style ($49)
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=95542-000000447-852-7080-E&lpage=none)

Bob

Hi Bob --

I have that smoker. It's a nice introduction to smoking, but grew out of it quite quickly. I managed to do several pretty nice boston butts, but it's definitely high maintenance. It's not particularly well-made, but it's not a piece of junk either -- mine has turned out to be the perfect tool for grill-roasting chicken thighs, so for that reason I'll probably hang onto it until it turns to rust.

Regards,
John
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PhilNYC on 12 Jun 2008, 02:57 pm
Home Depot sells these on the less expensive side - are they any good?

Orion Stainless Steel Cooker ($139)
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100402905 (http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100402905)


I recently saw another product on Food Network that seems to be of similar concept:

http://www.lacajachina.com/category_s/1.htm

Have been very curious about it...it seems like you could achieve the same thing with an electric unit of some kind without the hassle of lighting and cleaning charcoal, since the heat is all indirect...
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: ecramer on 12 Jun 2008, 03:14 pm
Home Depot sells these on the less expensive side - are they any good?

Orion Stainless Steel Cooker ($139)
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100402905 (http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100402905)

Brinkman Square Smoker ($59)
http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100606045 (http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?storeId=10051&langId=-1&catalogId=10053&productId=100606045)

Lowes carries these - same question

another Brinkman, but different style ($49)
http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=95542-000000447-852-7080-E&lpage=none (http://another Brinkman, but different style ($49)


http://www.lowes.com/lowes/lkn?action=productDetail&productId=95542-000000447-852-7080-E&lpage=none)

Bob

I built something similar to the orion using  a cut off 55 gallon barrel and a 35gal barrel welded in the center picture a top hat it works very well

this also works very well

(http://www.steppinoutmaine.com/archives/2005/nov_11/pix/Trash%20Can%20Turkey%201%20+%20w.jpg)

(http://www.steppinoutmaine.com/archives/2005/nov_11/pix/Trash%20Can%20Turkey%202.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Eric on 20 Jun 2008, 11:55 am
I have an Oklahoma Joe's Longohorn with some modifications. I am looking to add a BGE
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Papajin on 20 Jun 2008, 04:46 pm
Quote
It's a shame about the problems with the Kamado's because after enjoying my knockoff egg for a few years I'd like to step up to what he has, but after reading the fraud forum I don't think I can pull the trigger.

Looks like I'll have to live with mine for a few more years until somebody else makes a Kamado as nice as the Johnsons, but is trustworthy.

Seemed like a few people on that fraud forum were recommending Komodo Kamado (https://www.google.com/search?q=komodo+kamado&KomodoKamadoNew/index.php) instead...  There's quite a few cermic grill manufacturers out there now as well.  Just do a few quick searches.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Eric on 25 Jun 2008, 08:40 pm
I too have been eying a XL green egg but I am not sure it is big enough.  I currently use a plain ole 24" webber which I love but would like more space to get the whole meal out at once with larger parties.  The XL is 24" so its a step up in function but no more square inches. 

Get the Kamado, it has 3 shelves if you need them and a #7 or #9 is Realy Really large...

The BGE does not come with three shelves, but there is a kit available that gives it that capability
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Andrikos on 25 Jun 2008, 10:38 pm
Here's what I use:

(http://c.myspace.com/Groups/00022/57/49/22789475_l.jpg)

That's what I have too.
Love it!
Cheap too!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 26 Jun 2008, 12:44 pm
Had a very nice get together with some smoked ribs, brisket and chicken.
Next week I will try a big boston pork butt for some smoked pulled pork sandwiches.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=14793)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=15048)
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=15046)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Eric on 27 Jun 2008, 02:38 pm
Looks wonderful. What did you use for Rubs and wood?
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 27 Jun 2008, 09:51 pm
Looks wonderful. What did you use for Rubs and wood?

I mix all ingredients together and rub into meat, put it in a big ziplock and refrigerate overnight. Smoked with hickory wood.
Hopefully my boston butt will turn out just as good.


2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons onion powder
2 tablespoons black pepper
1 tablespoons kosher salt 
half cup brown sugar
4 tablespoons paprika
2 teaspoons cayenne pepper

(http://archive.http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=15051)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Brown on 26 Sep 2008, 04:14 pm
looking good sir. That boston butt will be great. Give it a good rubadub. work it in real well and let in stand in the Frig. for at least 24 hours. Enjoy.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PhilNYC on 26 Sep 2008, 08:38 pm
PeteG...how long did you smoke for, and what kind of wood?
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 26 Sep 2008, 11:36 pm
PeteG...how long did you smoke for, and what kind of wood?
Most of the time I use hickory chips but for beef brisket I use mesquite.
First thing is I always marinade the meat (dry rub) over night.

Large brisket 200-220 degrees / 12-14 hrs

Ribs (pork or beef) 190-220 degrees / 5-6 hrs

Boston butt 210-225 degrees / 14 hrs

The cooking time just depends on how much the meat weights. 

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: jk@home on 28 Sep 2008, 11:19 am
Another BGE owner here, have had my Large since June. Lovin it. The temp range is amazing, 225 degrees to smoke, up to 600 degrees plus to sear. It can even be used as a brick oven (We cooked pizza in it last night).

Right now I'm doing the full-blown red neck thing, I grille out in front of my garage on the front driveway. I have it mounted on one of the compact carts w/casters, what's great is I can roll it back into the garage after use, and not worry about a fire hazard.

Tonight going to cedar plank some stuffed salmon.

The only downside is, with purchasing the egg, and all the optional accessories I wanted, I pretty much blew my disposable income this summer, so no audio upgrades. I've recovered now, a Channel Islands VDA2 is on its way to me next week  :D
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: stone deaf on 3 Apr 2009, 06:44 pm
I joined the BGE cult a couple of years ago. If you need anything bigger give this guy a call. David Klose (http://www.bbqpits.com/)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: SharkyRivethead on 4 Apr 2009, 06:14 pm
 I have a Brinkman Bullet smoker (some call it a pill) I love it and hate it all at the same time. There is nothing worse than the constant monitoring. It has no air flow control, so I have to be by it's side or not to far away when smoking.

 I have smoked a couple Thanksgiving turkeys in the past. (will share my recipe if your interested. It's flipping good) I had to sit there for the total time to cook that bird. Anywhere from 6-8 hours. Lets see here, magazines, water/beer, chair.....ok, ready to smoke.


 I am looking to get a mobile smoker. My friend and I are going to buy a Pizza restaurant from his cousin. It has been around for 20+ years and does very well. After a while I want to add BBQ to a weekend menu to see how people react to it. I have done some research and have let a lot of people try my food. You know, to see if it's worthy. I have also been to most of the BBQ/Grill/Smoke House places around. I know I can do as good as them, if not better. Except one place called Central Texas. This guy rocks! Anyway, I figure if I can supply good food, plenty of it and add pizza and beer in a blue collar worker area. You can't go wrong.
  So, any suggestions? I have looked at a lot of smokers. But I have never used a mobile smoker. I want to go this route in case there is a need for catering and need to go mobile.
Title: PRO Q Smoker/Grill
Post by: Grumpy_Git on 6 May 2009, 08:44 am
All

Being stuck on the wrong side of the pond for everything smoking I'm kind of limited to what I can buy, especially at reasonable prices, so I was thinking of supporting a UK company and getting a PRO Q Frontier.

Does anyone know of this company, and if their smokers are any good?

I won't be buying a HT Reciever due to the total lack of stock ANYWHERE in the UK so have appropriated the cash for this instead. :lol:

Cheers all.

Nick.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: turkey on 28 May 2009, 08:38 pm
I have an Old Smokey Electric Smoker.

It works really well and it's easy to use. I just set the thermostat and go have some refreshments. :)

That Masterbuilt smoker would be nicer, but I'm happy with the one I have.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 29 May 2009, 01:03 pm
Just picked up a Masterbuilt, but it's a fathers day present - so I can't use it yet. That's OK, I can work on where I plan to set it up int he yard. Lowes has a good price on them.

One question though, the manual says don't let it sit out in the rain. So what do you guys do - put it away each time, or throw a plastic garbage bag over it after it cools down?

Bob

(http://images.lowes.com/product/converted/094428/094428259805md.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 30 May 2009, 12:03 am
Mine came with a nice cover but I still keep it in a corner in the garage. Smoked some nice babybacks that we?re on sale last weekend and they were great. Enjoy the new smoker.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Murphy12 on 30 May 2009, 06:55 pm
I too have been eying a XL green egg but I am not sure it is big enough.  I currently use a plain ole 24" webber which I love but would like more space to get the whole meal out at once with larger parties.  The XL is 24" so its a step up in function but no more square inches.
Get a large BGE and a small or medium for about the same price. I have a large BGE and love it! With 2 you could have stuff going at lower temp on one or the other. Also, it would be convenient and faster (less lump too) to fire up the smaller one when you are doing smaller cooks for immediate family. A lot of eggheads and dealers will tell you to go 2 instead of one XL.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 1 Jun 2009, 12:37 pm
Broke in my smoker this weekend. Made some fish for this first go-round.

Salmon - very simple with some Kosher salt and pepper and a little lemon/garlic/onion/chicken stock sprinkle on top

Bluefish - just used a Penzys spices lemon pepper dry rub on one piece

Bluefish - I tried a marinade of whiskey/garlic/onion/oil on the second piece

I also BBQ'ed some clams on the grill while I was waiting the 45 minutes for these to smoke (Hickory). Overall they cam out really delicious, the salmon being the favorite, & dry rubbed bluefish came in second.

Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PhilNYC on 1 Jun 2009, 01:16 pm
Any pictures, Bob? :drool:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 1 Jun 2009, 01:40 pm
No - we ate the results all too quickly.  :thumb:

I think I'm going to prep a brisket and some ribs for next weekend's adventure. For those who are interested I was turned on to this book by someone I work with who actually belongs to a BBQ team. Apparently this book is a smokers bible, of sorts.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558322620?ie=UTF8&tag=alsyin-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1558322620 (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1558322620?ie=UTF8&tag=alsyin-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1558322620)


Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: turkey on 1 Jun 2009, 05:12 pm
I've got this one and find it to be useful:

http://www.amazon.com/Mastering-Craft-Smoking-Warren-Anderson/dp/1580801358/ref=pd_sim_b_3
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 15 Jun 2009, 02:00 pm
Smoked some pork this weekend, both ribs and a hunk of meat. I went to 3 stores and the local butcher but couldn't get a shoulder (pork butt) or a picnic, so I opted for a much leaner pork loin (at 3x the price/lb). Delicious, but it needed to be fattier. Next time I'll order in advance from the butcher. I also tried usiing Mesquite this time instead of Hickory. Obviously I'm still experimenting with a lot of things.

I also learned another valuable lesson - don't use the same dry rub on the ribs as the pork. The port was delicious, but the ribs were way spicy and hot and peppery. Must be the surface area to meat ratio. Still delicious, and plenty of leftovers for tonight.

I don't remember the exact rub ingredients, but it was something like this:

1/4 cup ground black pepper
1/4 cup Paprika
tablespoon Cayenne
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Kosher salt
not sure what else, but this was the basis for it.

I also used a mop of vinegar, water and a splash of worstershire and any leftover rub about 1.5 hrs in and again about an hour before it finished.

Enjoy,
Bob

Update: I did take pictures and will post them tonight  :drool:
Based on some suggestions from experienced BBQ'ers here at work, they suggested using the Mesquite for only the first 1.5 hours. The meat takes in 90% of the smoke in the first hour or so. Then, if you want to, you can use a small amount of wood again towards the end of the process. This keeps the Mesquite from being overwhelming. I cooked about 3lbs of pork, so at 1.5 hrs per lb it went for 4.5 hours.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PhilNYC on 15 Jun 2009, 02:37 pm
Smoked some pork this weekend, both ribs and a hunk of meat. I went to 3 stores and the local butcher but couldn't get a shoulder (pork butt) or a picnic, so I opted for a much leaner pork loin (at 3x the price/lb). Delicious, but it needed to be fattier. Next time I'll order in advance from the butcher. I also tried usiing Mesquite this time instead of Hickory. Obviously I'm still experimenting with a lot of things.

I also learned another valuable lesson - don't use the same dry rub on the ribs as the pork. The port was delicious, but the ribs were way spicy and hot and peppery. Must be the surface area to meat ratio. Still delicious, and plenty of leftovers for tonight.

I don't remember the exact rub ingredients, but it was something like this:

1/4 cup ground black pepper
1/4 cup Paprika
tablespoon Cayenne
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Kosher salt
not sure what else, but this was the basis for it.

Enjoy,
Bob

I propose a new rule for this thread...no discussing what you smoked unless you include a picture of the end-result.... aa

Btw - how long did you smoke things for?  My experience with mesquite says that it is too strong (and somewhat bitter) for meats in long-smoking...
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 17 Jun 2009, 12:11 am
OK, here's some pictures from last weekend's smoke out.

(http://i470.photobucket.com/albums/rr65/BobMcN/DSC_0094.jpg)

(http://i470.photobucket.com/albums/rr65/BobMcN/DSC_0096.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: rahimlee54 on 17 Jun 2009, 12:13 am
What rub is that?  Man that meat looks great.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 17 Jun 2009, 12:53 am
See my previous post for the ingredients. It was perfect on the pork, but too spicy on the ribs.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Mariusz on 17 Jun 2009, 01:44 am
OK, here's some pictures from last weekend's smoke out.

(http://i470.photobucket.com/albums/rr65/BobMcN/DSC_0094.jpg)

(http://i470.photobucket.com/albums/rr65/BobMcN/DSC_0096.jpg)

Man, those pictures make me hungry. aa
great job Bob!

Mariusz :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: rahimlee54 on 17 Jun 2009, 02:12 am
Sorry I didnt even realize this thread had multiple pages  :duh:.  Man after seeing all those pictures and rubs my charcoal grill may need a friend.  I may have to try smoking later this month.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PhilNYC on 17 Jun 2009, 11:00 am
Update: I did take pictures and will post them tonight  :drool:
Based on some suggestions from experienced BBQ'ers here at work, they suggested using the Mesquite for only the first 1.5 hours. The meat takes in 90% of the smoke in the first hour or so. Then, if you want to, you can use a small amount of wood again towards the end of the process. This keeps the Mesquite from being overwhelming. I cooked about 3lbs of pork, so at 1.5 hrs per lb it went for 4.5 hours.

FYI - when doing pork ribs, you want to be smoking for the entire process (5-6 hours).  Doing it for 1.5 hours will impart the smoke taste, but you won't get the "smoke ring" (pink meat) unless you go the whole time.  Basically, a smoke ring indicates that you've smoked the meat long enough to actually cure it, and it completely changes the texture and taste of the meat.  Here's a batch of babybacks I did a while ago:

(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3020/2894471221_0cdbe73121_b.jpg)

More info on the smoke ring here:

http://bbq.about.com/od/barbecuehelp/g/gsmokering.htm

http://www.grillmaestro.com/explanation-of-the-pink-smoke-ring.htm


Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: ken on 19 Jun 2009, 03:30 pm
I've had the large BGE for over two years now and only use my gas grill for Hamburgers and hot dogs, but if I happen to be using the BGE for other foods that day I'll  also cook the burgers on it as well, The moisture retention is second to none.    I make Memphis style ribs using a dry rub from Mcormicks  - I belive it is a chipoltle style rub for ribs which I find to be excellent and apply it about 2 hours before cooking, I then coat one side with yellow mustard.   I put the ribs on a rib rack on top of the place setter ( which is a baking stone designed for the BGE) and cover with foil and cook  for approx 1 1/2 hours over in direct between 150-200 degrees.  I Then remove the foil for the next 30 mins and have some great tasting ribs with a minimal amount of effort.   I can only imagine how much better they could be smoked or having applied the rub the night before,  Somthing I think I'll try for Fathers day.  :drool:   I ordered ribs from the Longhorn restaurant last week, which happens to make similar Mempis style ribs and found mine to be much better.  Seasoned chickened wings cooked at 150 degrees for 2 hours are wonderful as well.  The beauty of the BGE is it's versataility and ability to maintain temperatures for extended periods of time without drying out the food.  I can imagine this type of grill easily lasting 20 years or longer, I'll never spend any more then $100.00 or so for a gas grill again.  Happy grilling aa
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Eric on 22 Jun 2009, 08:01 pm
I have the Primo Oval XL whic is similar to the BGE only larger
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 28 Jun 2009, 11:16 pm
My family's favorite so far is smoked Salmon. Just a little Kosher salt and ground pepper, a dash of onion and garlic powder and ginger. 45 minutes in the smoker with Hickory wood. Yeah, I like this a lot.

Here's the leftovers for tomorrow (always good to have some leftovers).
 
Bob

(http://i470.photobucket.com/albums/rr65/BobMcN/DSC_0221.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: jk@home on 30 Jun 2009, 07:17 pm
I've had the large BGE for over two years now....

This month will be my one-year anniversary with my large BGE. Had to install major cabinetry in the garage for all the accessories.  :D

This father's day, the kids got me this accessory:

http://www.williams-sonoma.com/products/c319/index.cfm?pkey=xsrd0m1

Fancy dancy beer-can cooker, worked great. The chicken cooked on this comes real close to rotisserie style.

Still don't have a Dutch oven pot, or that BBQ Guru gizmo yet.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 1 Jul 2009, 12:45 am
My family's favorite so far is smoked Salmon. Just a little Kosher salt and ground pepper, a dash of onion and garlic powder and ginger. 45 minutes in the smoker with Hickory wood. Yeah, I like this a lot.

Here's the leftovers for tomorrow (always good to have some leftovers).
 
Bob

Looks good Bob. I love salmon but never smoked any, that should change this summer.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: vinyl_lady on 6 Sep 2009, 04:56 am
This is my first post in this circle. I love to barbeque and share what I cook with good friends. Here are the two grills/smokers I use. This one is the Cook n Kettle.
(http://www.cooknkettle.com/art/smoker2.jpg)

It is all cast iron with as many rings as you want to buy. My father used one of these and I have 3, one from 1953, one from 1971 and one from 2003. Comes with a rotisserie spicket and motor (smoked an 18 lb turkey last Thanksgiving). The website is http://www.cooknkettle.com/.

This one is a Hasty Bake
(http://grillkitchens.com/asccustompages/ProductImages/eIetd-kNGlK-RFCxB-Powder-Coated_Legacy.jpg)

Powder coated 18 & 12 guage stainless steel. http://www.hastybake.com/index.asp.

Both are all charcoal, all the time. For smoking woods I use hickory, mesquite, apple, alder and sassafras (my favorite), depending on what I am cooking. My father was from Texas and taught me, my sister and brother how to barbeque and slow smoke all kinds of meat. Patience, several good drinks or cold beers and tunes are essential.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: some young guy on 6 Sep 2009, 08:30 am
This is my first post in this circle. I love to barbeque and share what I cook with good friends. Here are the two grills/smokers I use. This one is the Cook n Kettle.
(http://www.cooknkettle.com/art/smoker2.jpg)

It is all cast iron with as many rings as you want to buy. My father used one of these and I have 3, one from 1953, one from 1971 and one from 2003. Comes with a rotisserie spicket and motor (smoked an 18 lb turkey last Thanksgiving). The website is http://www.cooknkettle.com/.

This one is a Hasty Bake
(http://grillkitchens.com/asccustompages/ProductImages/eIetd-kNGlK-RFCxB-Powder-Coated_Legacy.jpg)

Powder coated 18 & 12 guage stainless steel. http://www.hastybake.com/index.asp.

Both are all charcoal, all the time. For smoking woods I use hickory, mesquite, apple, alder and sassafras (my favorite), depending on what I am cooking. My father was from Texas and taught me, my sister and brother how to barbeque and slow smoke all kinds of meat. Patience, several good drinks or cold beers and tunes are essential.

Welcome to the circle! Great first post... vintage bbq equipment=cool!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: vinyl_lady on 13 Sep 2009, 09:21 pm
Rubed a 7 lb brisket yesterday and regfrigerated overnight. Got up early and put it on before church at 8:30 am at 225 F on the top ring with a combination of hickory, mesquite and sassafrass chips over the coals. (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?action=gallery;sa=vie[img]http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=21992)w;picture=29844[/img]

It's 2 pm and has about 6 hrs to go. Added some baby backs this afternoon.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=21993)
Listening to Jennifer Warnes Famous Blew Raincoat, an original pressing; 10,000 Maniacs The Wishing Chair; LP; and UB40 Labour of Love II LP and thinking about my brand new grandson and how blessed I am. A great way to spend a Sunday afternoon. Say hello to Cody, born 9/2/09, 7 lb 8 oz, 19". I'm lovin' every minute, even when I am 800 miles away.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=21994)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 13 Sep 2009, 10:58 pm
Family & good food, very nice :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: vinyl_lady on 14 Sep 2009, 01:34 am
Family & good food, very nice :thumb:

Amen!
It's 6 pm and the brisket is at 9:30 and 4 hours on the ribs; temp is between 200 and 225.
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=21998)

(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/612SBZDFPJL._SS500_.jpg)

old vinyl
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: some young guy on 14 Sep 2009, 03:29 am
Laura, as facilitator of this group I must insist on (at least) a pic of the sliced brisket. Anyone can load some old meat into a smoker and post it...  :D
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 14 Sep 2009, 03:50 am
anyone have first hand, on the job smoking with this smoker?
http://www.academy.com/index.php?page=content&target=products/outdoors/grills/smokers&start=8&selectedSKU=0263-40121-0200
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: vinyl_lady on 15 Sep 2009, 02:32 am
Laura, as facilitator of this group I must insist on (at least) a pic of the sliced brisket. Anyone can load some old meat into a smoker and post it...  :D

Here you go. This was taken tonight. Last night after I took the brisket abd ribs off of the grill, I wrapped them in foil and refrigerated. They become the main dish in weeknight meals. The last thing I want to do when I get home after work is cook, so I do my cooking on the weekend and eat whatever I cook thorughout the week. tonight I made a brisket sandwich with Arthur Bryant's BBQ Sauce from KCMO.  :D

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=22045)

Spinning this on the TT
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51YNGQSNNEL._SL500_AA240_.jpg)

A nice way to unwind after work
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: gonefishin on 16 Oct 2009, 07:16 pm
    It's been a long time since I found myself browsing the audio forums.  But today I found myself checking out a few of the circles...

    ...and what do you know?  A thread on smokers  :D

   I got my new smoker this year, a BackWoods FatBoy.  I absolutely love it!  Previous to this I used a variety of offsets.

  cheers all!

dan

(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2670/3885075552_50afd5a2d8.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: gonefishin on 5 Dec 2009, 02:38 pm
    Well, this is the first time I made my own bacon. Yum, Yum, Yum! I cut the belly in three sections and seasoned one with maple syrup, one with brown sugar and one with honey and spices. They were each good after curing, rinsed and soaked a bit...but after smoking they were delicious!
 
 
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2505/4152051002_65734678ef.jpg)
(http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2552/4152055222_691abeabb4.jpg)
 

dan
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 5 Dec 2009, 03:34 pm
    Well, this is the first time I made my own bacon. Yum, Yum, Yum!

I would like to try that sometime.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: gonefishin on 8 Dec 2009, 01:48 am
    Well, this is the first time I made my own bacon. Yum, Yum, Yum!

I would like to try that sometime.

     Hi ya Pete :)

   I know winter is near...but go get yourself a pork belly and give it a try! 



  Let us know what you think. 



Oh yeah,.  You can get the pink salt (curing salt) from Spice House. 



   dan
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Eric on 7 May 2010, 02:02 pm
I have an Oklahoma Joe's Longohorn with some modifications. I am looking to add a BGE

I have expanded my array. I still have the OK Joe's Offset. I have added :

WSM 22
Pro-Q Excel 20
Weber Kettle Grill 22.5
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 10 May 2010, 01:03 pm
Nothing like fresh fish in the smoker. I'll take that over ribs or pork but any day.

Picked up some fresh caught Atlantic salmon Saturday in preparation for Mothers Day dinner. Made a rub of:

- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup dill
- 2 teaspoons coarse salt
- 2 teaspoons fresh ground black pepper

Let it sit in the fridge overnight then smoked it with hickory for 1.25 hours. Absolutely delicious. BTW - it is also amazing just with the salt & pepper and nothing else.

We also had some steamed blue claw's for an appetizer.

Sorry, no pictures - it didn't stay on the plate long enough for me to catch a shot.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Ronm1 on 10 May 2010, 02:05 pm
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=30198)
A few rib racks, that day if I remeber right was Apple and Pecan.
Ptank is gas assist for the firebox.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Ronm1 on 10 May 2010, 06:09 pm

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=30217)
Here's another
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Eric on 17 May 2010, 08:46 pm
Brisket from this weekend


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=30526)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: gonefishin on 10 Jun 2010, 09:19 am
   Hi Ronm1,

    Your smoker looks absolutely gorgeous!  Of course, it doesn't look as good as the food being smoked  :eyebrows:

   Is that a Peoria Smoker that your using?


  thanks for sharing>>>

  dan
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Ronm1 on 10 Jun 2010, 11:27 am
   Hi Ronm1,

    Your smoker looks absolutely gorgeous!  Of course, it doesn't look as good as the food being smoked  :eyebrows:

   Is that a Peoria Smoker that your using?


  thanks for sharing>>>

  dan
Thanks, Its a Gatorpit Backyard model with a few options.  They are out of Houston, TX.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 12 Sep 2010, 08:59 pm
Some friends told me about a marinade they use (Allegro) so this weekend I tried it on a pork shoulder that was on sale, it worked out really good and tasted great.

I marinated the shoulder for 8hrs and than smoked it (hickory) for 6hrs, wrapped it up in foil for another 6hrs. 

ALLEGRO (http://www.allegromarinade.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1&Itemid=15)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=35629)



(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=35630)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: taoggniklat on 10 Nov 2010, 06:59 pm
Here is my 55 gallon UDS

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/taoggniklat/Koopdaddys%20BBQ/DSC00919.jpg)(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/taoggniklat/Koopdaddys%20BBQ/c4aa2130.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/taoggniklat/Koopdaddys%20BBQ/75515aa3.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 3 Sep 2011, 02:41 pm
Bump.  :thumb:

I've been contemplating getting a (real) smoker but have no idea what's out there.
I started searching on page one here, but most of the links and photo's are broken.

The idea of an pellet smoker sounds great, but one that gets decent reviews and doesn't need constant monitoring is in the $1500 range.
Too rich for my blood.

Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: koiman on 3 Sep 2011, 04:32 pm
Bob,
Try www.traegergrills.com they have a special going now with free shipping and 3 EZ payments. I have the Lil Tex Elite and have had it for 3 years and just love it. I has a Digital temp setting so it is a set and forget unit. This is a pellet unit. very easy on the pellets.
Lee :D
Title: SmokinTex
Post by: tabrink on 3 Sep 2011, 07:05 pm
 :thumb:
My http://www.smokintex.com/ is absolutely the best smoker I have used.
No effort!  8)
 :lol:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: taoggniklat on 18 Sep 2012, 05:56 pm
This thread needs more smoke!

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/taoggniklat/Koopdaddys%20BBQ/72c0942d.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/taoggniklat/Koopdaddys%20BBQ/693aa3b5.jpg)

Leftover pulled pork makes for a great "Mac-n-Cheese Grilled pulled pork sandwich" Yes I know it is boxed mac n cheese, it was all I had at the time, hehe. Homemade would be an amazing upgrade.
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v78/taoggniklat/Koopdaddys%20BBQ/79ba8b78.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 19 Sep 2012, 12:19 am
This thread needs more smoke!
Thanks for the bump.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: SoCalWJS on 3 Oct 2012, 12:30 am
My BBQ/grilling area.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=68773)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=68774)

.......seem to be doing more grilling than Q'n lately though - Ribeyes on the Santa Maria Pit tonight  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 3 Oct 2012, 12:43 am
Almost looks like Bobby Flay's back yard.  :lol:
Nice!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Gruntwerks on 3 Oct 2012, 02:13 am
HELP! Why can't I ask anyone a question? I can post here, but when I go to the For Sale board, I'm not allowed to do ANYTHING. Can't ask a question, can't post anything, nada.... terribly frustrating. Just signed up here a week ago.

Ok, to make this post legitimate.... anyone else build a Stumper Clone Smoker? A Gravity Feed Charcoal Fired Smoker, with shelves like a fridge, and a top sealed chimney you load with charcoal, and it burns at the bottom of the stack.

Gruntwerks
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 6 Oct 2012, 09:40 pm
Hey Grunt.
I think there may be a 'noob waiting period' that keeps you out of the classifieds and PMs until you've made ___ amount of posts.

Regarding the smoker question, there's a massive BBQ forum called; http://www.bbq-brethren.com
The amound of posts that roll through there in a day is staggering (in comparison to any forum I've been on).
They're very helpful to noobs (I was one recently) and have a lot of threads about DIY smokers.

But honestly, I bought a new smoker for $400 that will run at 250 for about 12+ hours on a single 16# bag of charcoal.
I've learned the proper way to start, and manage a fire to get to those numbers.
Are you talking about longer/higher temps?

Bob

p.s. Welcome to AC, by the way.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Vint_age on 7 Oct 2012, 11:28 am
Hi, 

Just discovered this circle.

Big Green Egg (2) here. Unfortunately nothing cookin this weekend. Will post some pics after the next smoke.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 6 Apr 2013, 01:53 am
Ordered and on the way. :P
http://www.theorioncooker.com/ (http://www.theorioncooker.com/)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 6 Apr 2013, 09:22 am
Ordered and on the way. :P
http://www.theorioncooker.com/ (http://www.theorioncooker.com/)

I see our local BassPro has them, I just might pick one up this weekend.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 6 Apr 2013, 02:34 pm
That looks like fun!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: yamaha626 on 6 Apr 2013, 03:19 pm
Ordered and on the way. :P
http://www.theorioncooker.com/ (http://www.theorioncooker.com/)
I see our local BassPro has them, I just might pick one up this weekend.
That looks like fun!


I've owned one for about 4 or 5 years...and yes, it is a fun little cooker. I've used mine probably 7 or 8 times a season and its really easy and foolproof to cook on.
However, you should be aware of a few things :
1) It's really a Dutch Oven..although many orion users have added external smoke generators...works well as a smoker but not the same...
2) you burn thru a lot of charcoal...if your an Egghead (or any kamodo style grill) owner, you're in for a big surprise
3) The lid is tough to get off and back on when your using it because the stainless steel body gets hot from the ring of charcoal. The lid piece doesn't get as hot as the body and the two pieces don't expand identically.
4) an infrared thermometer is really useful because the temperature within the cookers fluctuates a lot from low inside the body to high inside the body

anyway, just my 2 cents.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 6 Apr 2013, 05:26 pm

1) It's really a Dutch Oven.....
2) you burn thru a lot of charcoal.......

I was thinking the same thing. The source of heat never makes contact with the food, just like a Dutch oven. So any flavor gained would be from rubs, sauces, marinades, brines, or liquids in the drip pan. The placement of wood chips inside the "cooker", could make or break a meal though. In my opinion, I'd say the chips need to be clean and very dry. In fact, to help things along, I might even preheat the wood chips that go inside.

Here's my two cents worth:
If you soak your chips, you now have wood in room temperature water. The amount of time it will take the fire to heat the chips to the point of "smoke", will be a considerable amount of time. That by the time the wood is hot enough to smolder/smoke, it's had to first dry out, then heat up, then slowly raise to the point it starts to combust. By that time, you've steamed your food in wet wood fragrance. Not a pleasant aroma. Even worse if the wood has bark on it, or has been around long enough that it's begun to get mold on it. I've reached in a bag of wood chips and found some to be moldy. Not good.
Alton Brown has a wonderful tutorial on why using wet wood is bad.

I might even go as far as to buy a bag of fruit wood or "flavored" pellets....(apple, pecan, hickory, cherry, etc..et....)
Or just go to your local lumber yard and buy a piece of lumber (not treated) and use a chop saw to cut it up.

The advantage of the (external) heat source not having contact with the food, is you can use the cheapest charcoal you can find. Basically anything that burns would be fine since it's not "touching" the food.

Ohhh....I could go on about this for hours....but chores are calling.
Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 6 Apr 2013, 05:28 pm
Thanks for the tips. Picked one up and will do a brisket this weekend with it.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 6 Apr 2013, 05:32 pm
Advice for anybody smoking meat:
There's a fellow named "Aaron Franklin" that has some BBQ videos called "BBQ with Franklin". They are MOST helpful if you're new to smoking.
There's one specifically on smoking a brisket, I highly recommend it.

The best piece of advice is that your thermometer is your worst enemy when it comes to smoking large hunks of meat like pork butts, and briskets.

Hopefully that got you thinking.  :wink:
Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: yamaha626 on 6 Apr 2013, 08:02 pm
Bob, you're correct...mostly. The Orion is a very versatile little gadget but I have my best luck when I use a water pan on the bottom surrounded by wood chips to smolder. Also, very little exhaust since it is sealed...like a dutch over should be. It cooks with a very pronounced vertical bias...closer to the base coal ring is hot and higher up the inside chamber is cooler. You're really just cooking by time but I like to use an infrared thermometer to kinda get a feel for what my cooking temps are.
I can't tell you if there is any difference if you soak the wood chips ahead or not. You see, unlike a grill or a smoker, it's not easy to see what's happening inside an Orion...the lid is a pain in the ass to take off and then fit back on when you have hot coals burning on the upper charcoal bin.

Anyway, they're pretty cheap, quite versatile, don't take up any space and add another bbq tool to your arsenal.

Advice for anybody smoking meat:
There's a fellow named "Aaron Franklin" that has some BBQ videos called "BBQ with Franklin". They are MOST helpful if you're new to smoking.
There's one specifically on smoking a brisket, I highly recommend it.

The best piece of advice is that your thermometer is your worst enemy when it comes to smoking large hunks of meat like pork butts, and briskets.

Hopefully that got you thinking.  :wink:
Bob

Those videos are awesome...even if you're not new to smoking. He keeps everything simple...


Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 6 Apr 2013, 08:41 pm
I might even go as far as to buy a bag of fruit wood or "flavored" pellets....(apple, pecan, hickory, cherry, etc..et....)

Great idea Bob, I only use big chips of hickory with my regular smoker so got a bag of hickory pellets and they will go in dry, not a lot of room around the drip pan for wood chips so using pellets will help with space.

Bought a 7lb brisket and will marinate it tonight, into the Orion tomorrow.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 6 Apr 2013, 08:54 pm
add another bbq tool to your arsenal.

Those videos are awesome...even if you're not new to smoking. He keeps everything simple...
Adding another tool to my BBQ arsenal is what it's all about.
It's like buying more music, or another amp...just, cheaper.  :lol:
But making good food in ways I've never had, and sharing it with my family and friends makes me happy.
Just like music makes me happy, only that my family enjoys the food I cook. The music....not so much.  :rotflmao:

Currently I'm using a WSM 22.5 and love it. Well, except for the cleaning aspect. That's pretty bad, although I've been finding ways to prevent messes before they happen.
As much as I enjoy "the smoke", I do dread cleaning up afterwards. I'm thinking the Orion might be quite a bit easier to clean than what I've got.
I've been looking for something smaller and easier when I'm in the mood for "a quicky", and like you said, this is just another tool in the arsenal.

Great idea Bob, I only use big chips of hickory with my regular smoker so got a bag of hickory pellets and they will go in dry, not a lot of room around the drip pan for wood chips so using pellets will help with space.

Bought a 7lb brisket and will marinate it tonight, into the Orion tomorrow.

Thanks Pete, glad I could help!  :D
I've seen a few websites where they sell bags of various "pelletized woods". It's fun to try new flavors.
Is the brisket you bought just "the point", or is it "the flat"? For that weight, it's not a "full packer".
I've never done a full packer, only the hacked up off the shelf things the grocery store puts on the shelf.
One of these days, I'll work up the balls to try a full packer.

Do you have a special marinade?

Good stuff guys. Good stuff.
Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 6 Apr 2013, 11:34 pm
Thanks for the tips Bob   :wink:
Franklin BBQ, long line waiting last time I stop by there. (Amazing Brisket)  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 6 Apr 2013, 11:35 pm
You've been to his place!?!?!?!  :o
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 6 Apr 2013, 11:41 pm
Yes, love the way the brisket tasted, just salt, pepper and smoke.
In Austin, just off the I35, E 11St.
Don't go there at lunch hour.   :nono:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 7 Apr 2013, 12:27 am
Do you have a special marinade?

The brisket is a thick flat cut. My marinade is a little Andria’s sauce over night pat dry then a dry rub (salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne, brown sugar).
Bob, if you’re ever around O’Fallon, IL check out  Andria’s restaurant.

http://www.andrias.com/ (http://www.andrias.com/)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 7 Apr 2013, 12:39 am
Pete
Will keep an eye on your post, I should have the Orion on Tuesday.  :D
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: SlushPuppy on 7 Apr 2013, 12:49 am
Yes, love the way the brisket tasted, just salt, pepper and smoke.
In Austin, just off the I35, E 11St.
Don't go there at lunch hour.   :nono:

I've been there twice since moving to Texas. That place was crammed both times!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 7 Apr 2013, 01:27 am
bought one of these,  http://www.academy.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_10051_650565_-1__?N=578824977&Ntt=brazos&Ntk=All
using it now loin back ribs
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 7 Apr 2013, 08:55 pm
Well I finished my first time cooking with the Orion, let me say first cooking a brisket has always been an difficult meat for me to cook don’t know if it’s the high altitude or not.

I took out one of the nut and bolts for the rib hanger so I could put a temp cable through the cooker to the meat. After 3 hours it was done, it was very fast. I normally cook brisket with my regular smoker (180-200@8-10hrs) and the Orion only took 3hrs.  How did it taste, no better or worse than low & slow it was the same really no difference except a little less smoke taste with the Orion (my wife likes less smoke).

I do believe ribs and poultry will be better with the “O” but won’t know for sure until I cook them.



(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=78387)



(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=78388)




(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=78389)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 7 Apr 2013, 08:59 pm
Looks good.

 I dove in and bought this today to get my feet wet. If I use it enough this summer I'll invest in the WSM next year.



(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=78390)


Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 7 Apr 2013, 09:01 pm
Pete, Thanks for posting.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 8 Apr 2013, 01:24 am
Interesting. Very cool Pete. I never would have imagined a Brisket could cook that quick.

Charles. I'm not sure what smoker is in the picture, but it's not a WSM.
Here's the 18" and 22.5" WSM:

(http://www.virtualweberbullet.com/22wsm_photos/wsm18&22_lg.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 8 Apr 2013, 08:31 am
Interesting. Very cool Pete. I never would have imagined a Brisket could cook that quick.

Charles. I'm not sure what smoker is in the picture, but it's not a WSM.
Here's the 18" and 22.5" WSM:

(http://www.virtualweberbullet.com/22wsm_photos/wsm18&22_lg.jpg)

Master Forge from Lowes
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: bearman2 on 8 Apr 2013, 02:27 pm
Yesterday I smoked a whole turkey for the first time. The turkey was 12lbs and I smoked it with apple chips in my Smokin-it #2. It took around 13 hours and was excellent considering that it was my first whole turkey. Next in line is a butt which I will probably do with hickory.  Sorry no pictures of the turkey but my wife was hungry. 
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: borism on 8 Apr 2013, 02:34 pm
I don't know if my Grill Dome would qualify as a "true smoker" but the smoked ribs tasted great yesterday.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=78416)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=78417)

What I like is that it also is great for grilling from burgers to steaks and whole chickens (though this is with indirect heat).
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 8 Apr 2013, 03:14 pm
Yesterday I smoked a whole turkey for the first time.
Amen to that!
i smoked my first one this year and the family raved about it. I won't be waiting until next Thanksgiving to do it again, that's for sure.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 8 Apr 2013, 04:48 pm
speaking of new smokers here's one manufactured in southlake texas, interesting.
http://www.karubecue.com/
here's a video.   http://www.karubecue.com/content/video-tour 
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 8 Apr 2013, 05:03 pm
trungt, looking forward to some brisket at lone star audio fest :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 10 Apr 2013, 12:56 pm
Anybody ever make  "Armadillo Eggs"?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=mwEoNqVufSQ#!

Yum.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: yamaha626 on 10 Apr 2013, 02:00 pm
never done them but I just did these over the weekend. easier then it looks.

http://divaq.ca/smoked-sausage-cups-with-jalapeno-cheese-and-egg-bbq-breakfast-bites
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 10 Apr 2013, 02:18 pm
OOohhhhhh.......  :drool:
That looks awesome. I'll be doing that for sure. Thank you!

Do a Google search for images of "atomic buffalo turds". Those are fantastic.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 20 Apr 2013, 03:03 pm
My Orion hit a homerun cooking whole chickens, I did use my injection recipe. The taste was very good and juicy I did have to cook them longer than the book called for.


(http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk175/peteg-photos/_Y6C6733_zps5dfda455.jpg)

(http://i280.photobucket.com/albums/kk175/peteg-photos/_Y6C6736_zpsf02df5ae.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 20 Apr 2013, 04:36 pm
Looks great . I'm smoking today for the first time. Doing ribs
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 20 Apr 2013, 07:43 pm
Looks great . I'm smoking today for the first time. Doing ribs

Good luck  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 21 Apr 2013, 07:56 am
Good luck  :thumb:

So how do they look ? They tasted great


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=79251)


Smoked on my modified Master Forge Smoker.


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=79252)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 21 Apr 2013, 01:06 pm
Charles, they look awesome. What wood did you use?
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 21 Apr 2013, 02:52 pm
They look great Charles!
At any point during the cook, did you foil them?
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 21 Apr 2013, 05:22 pm
Charles, they look awesome. What wood did you use?

I used charcoal and apple wood for the smoke
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 21 Apr 2013, 05:23 pm
They look great Charles!
At any point during the cook, did you foil them?

I did the 2-2-1 method

2 hours of smoke then 2 hrs in foil filled with Apple juice then 1 hr of mopping
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 29 Apr 2013, 06:47 pm
I made this on the grill yesterday with some Hickory chips for smoke  :thumb:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=79616)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 29 Apr 2013, 07:28 pm
BBQ pizza is one of lifes finest pleasures.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 29 Apr 2013, 09:51 pm
I made this on the grill yesterday with some Hickory chips for smoke  :thumb:

BBQ pizza is one of lifes finest pleasures.  :thumb:

Smoke on a pizza, fire in the grill   :D

That's lame, sorry  :oops:

Never had a smoked pizza before.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 29 Apr 2013, 10:17 pm
It's actually my take on a wood burning oven. If you never had a smoked Pizza stop going to Dominos
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 30 Apr 2013, 12:07 am
If you never had a smoked Pizza stop going to Dominos

Yes. That, right there. 
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 1 May 2013, 10:06 pm
New smoker.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=79682)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 1 May 2013, 10:12 pm
trung, what brand smoker is it?

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 1 May 2013, 10:23 pm
Found it on Craigslist, a welder build it 3/16" and 1/4" steel.
One more here, very nice build, just little bigger than mine.
http://dallas.craigslist.org/ftw/for/3767778730.html (http://dallas.craigslist.org/ftw/for/3767778730.html)
Same guy selling.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 1 May 2013, 10:24 pm

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=79683)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=79684)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 2 May 2013, 01:58 pm
$600 is an insane price for that!  :o
Looks like a VERY quality build. Looks like much more than "just some guy who knows how to weld".

I'm very impressed with that, you got a nice unit there.
Take good care of it, and you'll be passing that down to your kids and Grandkids.

Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 2 May 2013, 05:09 pm
$600 is an insane price for that!  :o
Looks like a VERY quality build. Looks like much more than "just some guy who knows how to weld".

I'm very impressed with that, you got a nice unit there.
Take good care of it, and you'll be passing that down to your kids and Grandkids.

Bob

That would be a fabricator/welder like some of the guys I work with. Their like artist with sheet metal. You can't find that good of construction in any hardware store. He should be using stainless steel expanded metal for the cooking surface. Kinda looks like it since that's not painted. For the gauge of steel and the hours that guy's got in it, I can see 6 bills. He's not building those at home in a garage. It takes some good metal working equipment to cut, bend and form steel like that. Nice work.

I'm wondering if he provided a way of removing the ashes other then removing the cooking surfaces. Rev 2.


Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 2 May 2013, 05:45 pm
Agreed. I've got a bunch of woodworking tools/equipment, but lack anything metal related. I told my wife that one of these days I'm buying a plasma cutter and MIG welder and build my own grill/smoker.   But to roll that guage of sheet metal, that guy has access to a shop, or is way beyond your average guy with a welder.
But I can see myself using premade barrels and not rolling my own drum.

That's just cool. Like a nice car, or nice pair of speakers, you know you've got a good one when you have the overwhelming desire to just touch it.  :lol:

Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 3 May 2013, 04:00 am
I had been looking for a smoker for a few years.
Most of them like the one I have now will set you back over a grand, I actually pick this one up for $580. (2hrs round trip)
Very please with this one, I season it after LSAF.   :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 6 May 2013, 10:03 pm
Bob, I'm going to build an ash tray, great ideal.  :thumb:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=80060)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 6 May 2013, 11:41 pm
Glad I could help.  :D
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 27 May 2013, 12:15 pm
Brisket is on  :thumb:

Happy smoking and happy Memorial Day




(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81186)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 27 May 2013, 03:54 pm
I know what you're having for dinner tonight !!!!!!!!!!!  :thumb:
That's awesome. Looks great.

I feel so bad, my pit never even got fired up for the weekend.  :|
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 27 May 2013, 04:18 pm
I think the temp has hit the plateau mark. It's been at 169 for about 45 minutes. I'm hoping it is done by 3 pm
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 27 May 2013, 05:25 pm
That "Plateau" you're talking about is called a stall. It's when a lot of noobs panic thinking something is wrong with the smoker. Then they start stoking the fire and opening all the vents in order to "get it going again". But in reality it's time to pop the top on another beverage of choice knowing that awesomness awaits you. Don't touch a thing, the temp will start slowly climbing again, all on its own.
Three O'clock is very optimistic, unless it's a small brisket. It's hard to tell from the pic what exactly you've got there. It's not a "full packer" brisket (20+ pounds), so if it's just the "flat" or the "point", then 3:00 might be a realistic goal.

If you've got a few minutes, watch this guy. He's got more BBQ awards than imaginable.
I've subscribed to his YouTube channel. He's great.
Here's his brisket video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VmTzdMHu5KU


Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 27 May 2013, 05:41 pm
I separated the flat and the point this is just the flat it weighs in about 4 pounds I started at 8 a.m. hopefully it should be done by 3
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 27 May 2013, 06:04 pm
Oh nice. Sounds like you're in good shape then.
Sorry if talked 'down' to you. No offence intended :oops:.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 27 May 2013, 06:09 pm
Oh nice. Sounds like you're in good shape then.
Sorry if talked 'down' to you. No offence intended :oops:.


Didn't take it that way  :scratch:

183 degrees


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81205)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 27 May 2013, 07:20 pm
OK, good.
Looking great Charles. My mouth is watering!  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 28 May 2013, 12:19 am
Well the Briskets flavor was spot on , just a little dry. Have to work on temp control
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: SoCalWJS on 28 May 2013, 12:32 am
I've never had any real success with Brisket in the smoker - too dry. If I foil it with liquid, it's juicy, but usually turns into shredded beef.  :scratch:

Still gonna keep trying, cause it tastes GOOD!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 28 May 2013, 12:40 am
I've never had any real success with Brisket in the smoker - too dry. If I foil it with liquid, it's juicy, but usually turns into shredded beef.  :scratch:


Still gonna keep trying, cause it tastes GOOD!

I read different things on different forms some say 180 degrees for slicing and if you want to go to 200 degrees it'll fall apart so you can pull it
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 28 May 2013, 12:49 am
Without looking up the exact internal temps, I'd agree with Charles, that brisket you want to slice would be a much lower temp that one you'd want to shred/pull.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 7 Jun 2013, 04:51 am
Modification for my smoker.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81800)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81801)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=81802)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: ratso on 7 Jun 2013, 06:01 am
not sure how widely known this meathead guy is but i've been enjoying his site, lots of good info there.

http://www.amazingribs.com/index.html
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 7 Jun 2013, 11:50 am
get a charcoal basket and a convection plate made.
http://www.horizonbbqsmokersstore.com/servlet/the-Accessories-cln-Smoker-%26-Grill-Accessories/Categories
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 7 Jun 2013, 02:51 pm
TrungT,

Nice mod to your grill  :thumb: That's gotta get the air flow'n. I'm jealous.
Is the small tube at the very bottom for clean out  :?:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 7 Jun 2013, 03:22 pm
Thanks WN.
The small bottom pipe is a drain pipe.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 7 Jun 2013, 10:14 pm
here's some good reading.
http://www.texasbbqforum.com/
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 7 Jun 2013, 11:44 pm
Modification for my smoker.

What a great looking smoker, one of the best.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 8 Jun 2013, 01:15 am
PeterG
Thank you.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 8 Jun 2013, 08:18 pm
What a great looking smoker, one of the best.  :thumb:

Agreed. You stole it for 600 bucks. It's even better after the mods.
For the gauge of steel, fabrication, and welding, It 's a giant killer  :thumb:
Now cook us all up a nice slab of ribs or chicken in that baby  :drool:

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 8 Jun 2013, 09:10 pm
WN.
http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=41689.msg1226972#msg1226972 (http://www.audiocircle.com/index.php?topic=41689.msg1226972#msg1226972)
 :thumb:
Will test out the mods soon.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 8 Jun 2013, 09:35 pm
Look like this is a next project: Convection Plate

(http://www.muenkel.eu/media/images/big/joes-barbecue-smoker-convection-plate-16quot_FFZ-0488_2.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 8 Jun 2013, 09:45 pm
Look like this is a next project: Convection Plate

(http://www.muenkel.eu/media/images/big/joes-barbecue-smoker-convection-plate-16quot_FFZ-0488_2.jpg)

I'm intrigued. Would you put charcoals on top of that in the main cooking area or does it serve another purpose :dunno:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 8 Jun 2013, 09:52 pm
Convection Plate or Baffle is a steel plate eliminates the "Hot Spot" when slow smoking meat.
(http://m.grillshop.at/hi/Joe%60s_BBQ_Smoker_Convection_Plate-1979.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 9 Jun 2013, 07:15 pm
I've also seen those called "Tuning plates".
Generally, in very long smokers, it isn't just one plate, it's several. As you get away from the heat source, you spread the plates further apart.
That way, the meat closest to the heat won't burn and the furthest away won't be raw.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 9 Jun 2013, 09:42 pm
I've also seen those called "Tuning plates".
Generally, in very long smokers, it isn't just one plate, it's several. As you get away from the heat source, you spread the plates further apart.
That way, the meat closest to the heat won't burn and the furthest away won't be raw.

So it regulates the heat depending on how the plate/holes are rotated  :thumb:
I can see how that would help when using a side box.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 9 Jun 2013, 10:58 pm
Yes, exactly.
Here's a random Google pic I found.
Based on the spacing of the gaps, I'd say the firebox is on the left side.

(http://i716.photobucket.com/albums/ww165/kjw13405/20%20X%2036%20Smoker%201/DSCN2360.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 10 Jun 2013, 07:39 am
Hitler Doesn't Get Franklins BBQ.  :lol:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaZx6kGs7pg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaZx6kGs7pg)

(http://franklinbarbecue.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/DSC_8798.jpeg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 10 Jun 2013, 04:02 pm
That's fantastic. I've spent quite a bit of time watching those spoof Hitler videos.
There's a funny one about the Prius too.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 18 Jun 2013, 10:08 pm

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=82358)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 18 Jun 2013, 11:35 pm
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=82358)




That's all fine and dandy....but what kind of speakers you have out there?  :wink:







Just kidding buddy. I'm jealous. That looks great!  :thumb:

Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 19 Jun 2013, 02:55 am
Thanks Bob.  :thumb:
Franklin's RULES  :lol:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=82391)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=82392)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: ratso on 19 Jun 2013, 03:44 pm
getting this: cheap and great reviews. cooks fast too, much faster than a traditional smoker.

http://pitbarrelcooker.com/ (http://pitbarrelcooker.com/)

(http://samsnwbbqco.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/images/PBC_Pack.277171154_std.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 19 Jun 2013, 04:34 pm
Trung, that looks perfect, well done Sir!

Ratso, Check out "UDS", otherwise called "Ugly Drum Smokers".
For those that are into DIY, you can make that type of smoker yourself.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: ratso on 19 Jun 2013, 05:09 pm
actually it's a little different than a ugly drum, mostly in the size of it (smaller). it holds temps a little more evenly and better. there is a thing in the faqs on the differences.

**edit oh and i should add, the BIG difference is the metal bars that go through the top. meat cooks hanging from the bars by metal hooks, allowing for much shorter cooking times.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 19 Jun 2013, 05:32 pm
Oh gotcha. I didn't know that. As I mentioned in the other thread, I'm not a drum guy.
They all look the same to me.  :lol: :lol: :lol:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 20 Jun 2013, 10:03 pm
16G stainless steel is "B" to work with.  :duh:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=82472)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=82473)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 20 Jun 2013, 10:12 pm
Yes it is. Nice work tho. You must have bought those to size or had someone shear them to size for you. If you drilled those with a hand drill I know that was a bear. Looks like it will work  :thumb:

Every time I see that smoker I'm in awe  :o Keeps getting better and better  :)

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 20 Jun 2013, 10:28 pm
Thanks
I had the metal shop sheared to size, then hand drill with running water to keep everything cool.
Took me 4 hrs to finished though.
I'm thinking to add another removable rack above the main one.  :scratch:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 21 Jun 2013, 02:28 am
Now we're talkin'  8)

That's a big step above anything "off the shelf". You're making mine look like a toy.  :lol:

By the way, for Fathers Day my wife bought me an injection needle with two tips, and the book Smokin' which is highly regarded as "very good BBQ information".

(http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k60/BobinStLouis/Food/DSC_0213_zps1510b04e.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 21 Jun 2013, 02:35 am
if you're going to do tuning plates they should not have holes in them, if it's a one piece plate then you use the holes.  with tuning plates it's the space between plates that controls the heat dispersion.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 21 Jun 2013, 02:42 am
I wondered about the holes too.  :scratch:

I'd never seen that, but since my smoker doesn't support the use of tuning plates, the only thing I know about them is what I see the BBQ forums guys use when they post pictures of their smokers. To date, I've never seen holes in tuning plates.

Note: "Child-like optimism" starts here:
I guess it wouldn't hurt. Worst case, you've lost some of the tuning capability, as the heat is going to escape too soon and the left side of the smoker will be cooler than it should be. If you're not doing whole hog, I guess that would be alright. if you do two briskets, the right one will finish quicker.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 21 Jun 2013, 03:07 am
Well .....
None tuning plates: just move the plates together     :thumb:
Easy to clean out.  :thumb:
This way, I do have more option.  :D

Bob.
Great Father Day present.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 21 Jun 2013, 12:07 pm
Sounds like a good plan buddy.   :D
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 21 Jun 2013, 05:46 pm
Ran across this picture, and thought it belonged in this thread for my audio guys to see.  :lol:

It's a cast iron Lodge brand skillet.

(http://laughingsquid.com/wp-content/uploads/LGSK3.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: JerryM on 21 Jun 2013, 06:04 pm
^^^ That's bitchin'!!!  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 21 Jun 2013, 10:57 pm

    Hey, that would be a really good gift  :thumb:

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 21 Jun 2013, 11:34 pm
After looking at the specs, I noticed the thing is only 10" long and shipping weight is 2 pounds.
I'm thinking the actual cooking area is about the size of a pear.
Looks more like a novelty than a tool for cooking.   :dunno:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 21 Jun 2013, 11:36 pm
Good for Cornbread.   :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 21 Jun 2013, 11:38 pm
OOhhhhh......  :o
Great idea. That's a winner right there!  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: GT Audio Works on 24 Jun 2013, 02:08 am
We just had our first meal cooked with the grill smoker I built.
WOW !! Quite an improvement from my Weber gas grill.
I cooked a pork roast and chicken breast..the meat was succulent, juicy and tender.

I got two 20" clay pots and a smaller clay pot and coal grid to hold the coals and a cooking grate and a nomex gasket to seal the 2 halves.
I didn't get to making the handle for the top half or a damper to regulate air flow yet but I managed without it.
                                                                                                                                                                          Greg

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=82621)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 24 Jun 2013, 02:19 am
   
    Now that's DIY  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 4 Jul 2013, 01:01 pm
Happy 4th of July.


 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=83061)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 4 Jul 2013, 01:29 pm
Nice!
What on the hanger? Butts?
I like how they're basting the ribs. That's just cool.  8)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 4 Jul 2013, 01:56 pm

Thanks.2 X Brisket.   :thumb:
"Briskets on top rack, Ribs on the bottom rack" - Learned from BBQ rest. 30 yrs ago.  :icon_lol:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 4 Jul 2013, 02:05 pm
That'll work!
It's been too long since I"ve done a brisket.
Have you ever smoked a chuck roast?
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 4 Jul 2013, 02:13 pm
No, not yet.

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 4 Jul 2013, 08:14 pm
 :thumb:


 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=83069)


 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=83068) 
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 7 Jul 2013, 08:10 pm
My brisket ended up in the garbage can today. Second time. My brother says pull the brisket out at 165 but every forum I read says 180. I have only made 2 ok Briskets. I guess I should start listening to him because his comes out YUMMY.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: vinyl_lady on 7 Jul 2013, 09:59 pm
I smoked a 12 lb brisket on the Traeger this weekend. Marinated it for about 8-9 hours and then put it on Thursday night around 7 pm and smoked it, fat side up on the smoke setting (165) for 4 hours and then at 180 for 8 hours. Used maple and apple pellets. Wrapped it in heavy duty foil and cooked it for another 6 hours at 225-250. Internal temp reached 180 and I shut the grill off. Very tender and tasty.

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=83246)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=83248)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=83247)


Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: hibuckhobby on 7 Jul 2013, 10:40 pm
Looks great VL!
What are you using for marinade?
Hibuck...
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 7 Jul 2013, 11:12 pm
Charles, here's something that you'll find hard to swallow:
Some guys cook perfect brisket and never take a temp reading.  :o

Yip. Read that again.

Here's the deal.....Use the metal probe of your thermometer as a "feeler gauge". Stick it in the brisket, but notice how it feels going in. When the probe feels like you're pushing through warm butter, then you're done.
At that point, take the brisket, wrap it in aluminum foil and put it in a small cooler for an hour or two. This allows the juices to "re-enter" the muscle, and firm back up a bit. If you pull the meat off the smoker sooner than the point where it "feels like butter", then it will be tough, dried out and chewy. I think this is where you took yours off. I do believe that if you cooked it longer it would have been fantastic.

One of the best forum posts I've ever seen, was >> THIS ONE << (http://www.bbq-brethren.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57882&highlight=brisket+tutorial) titled "Basic Brisket Tutorial". About halfway down the page he talks about the brisket smoking for 10 hours and says,
"It was not done yet. The point was very tender, the probe slid right in and out like butter. The flat was not tender however, I had to stick the probe in and it had some decent resistance. So I put the lid back on and checked it again in an hour. It still wasn't quite ready so I waited another hour, then it was done and tender in both the flat and the point. So this packer took 12 hours at 250 to get done. I don't even know what internal temp the brisket was, and I frankly don't even care. I know it is done and that is that. You will know too after doing this. Just don't panic and take it off too early. Wait until the meat gives up and is tender."

I underlined the important part.
Don't give up yet. Brisket is awesome. Try again.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 7 Jul 2013, 11:15 pm
Vinyl Lady, that looks amazing!
I almost bought a Traeger.....that's a lifetime unit right there!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: ton1313 on 7 Jul 2013, 11:37 pm
Advice request please.

Im considering a Napoleon Apollo smoker as my first adventure in smoking meat. They have 2 sizes, 17 and 20 inch. Which size would be best to get? Obviously, the bigger one would handle larger cuts of meat, but would there be any disadvantages?

Im open to suggestions of other smokers as well. I would like to keep total investment under 500. The two above are 250 and 350 respectivly.

Thanks,

Todd
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 7 Jul 2013, 11:46 pm
Hey Todd,
I've never, not once, heard of that brand.
Check out the 18" and 22.5" Weber Smokey Mountain ("WSM"). Their customer service is second to none. I've got the 22.5 and love it.
The reputation they've earned on the BBQ forums is very high, and they have a very strong and loyal following.

Personally, I'd get the large one. Unless space is that much of an issue, you're not gaining much by purchasing a smaller unit.
Two pork butts, a large brisket, a turkey, or a couple racks of ribs will dwarf the smaller units. You'll run out of room very quickly.

Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: ton1313 on 8 Jul 2013, 12:05 am
Thanks Bob,

I have one of the Napoleon Prestige gas grills, and absolutely love it, that is the reason for me looking at their smoker. This company is lesser known in the US, as they are from Canada, and make a seriously well built product.

The WSM is definitely an option. The one thing that the Napoleon has is 5 hooks that allows you to hang meat from the lid. Does the Weber have this option?
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 8 Jul 2013, 01:12 am
Good to know. Not sure about the hooks, but I've seen the "UDS" guys using hooks.
They're easily/cheaply purchased/fashioned, and I would fit about any grill/smoker.
I am unaware if Weber sells an "official" Weber brand hook. Basically, it's just a 's' shaped piece of wire.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 8 Jul 2013, 03:04 am
the basic rule of thumb is to a cooker larger than what you need.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 8 Jul 2013, 08:02 am
the basic rule of thumb is to a cooker larger than what you need.

I just recently realized that same thing being in the market for a new grill. With a larger grill you could push the coals off to one said and cook more indirect.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 8 Jul 2013, 10:47 am
Charles, here's something that you'll find hard to swallow:
Some guys cook perfect brisket and never take a temp reading.  :o

Yip. Read that again.

Here's the deal.....Use the metal probe of your thermometer as a "feeler gauge". Stick it in the brisket, but notice how it feels going in. When the probe feels like you're pushing through warm butter, then you're done.
At that point, take the brisket, wrap it in aluminum foil and put it in a small cooler for an hour or two. This allows the juices to "re-enter" the muscle, and firm back up a bit. If you pull the meat off the smoker sooner than the point where it "feels like butter", then it will be tough, dried out and chewy. I think this is where you took yours off. I do believe that if you cooked it longer it would have been fantastic.

One of the best forum posts I've ever seen, was >> THIS ONE << (http://www.bbq-brethren.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57882&highlight=brisket+tutorial) titled "Basic Brisket Tutorial". About halfway down the page he talks about the brisket smoking for 10 hours and says,
"It was not done yet. The point was very tender, the probe slid right in and out like butter. The flat was not tender however, I had to stick the probe in and it had some decent resistance. So I put the lid back on and checked it again in an hour. It still wasn't quite ready so I waited another hour, then it was done and tender in both the flat and the point. So this packer took 12 hours at 250 to get done. I don't even know what internal temp the brisket was, and I frankly don't even care. I know it is done and that is that. You will know too after doing this. Just don't panic and take it off too early. Wait until the meat gives up and is tender."

I underlined the important part.
Don't give up yet. Brisket is awesome. Try again.  :thumb:

I did just that. And when I took it out of the cooler I had to use a circular saw to  cut it.  :lol:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: JohnR on 8 Jul 2013, 10:49 am
Circular saw is one of the most dangerous power tools... please don't misuse it, no matter how hungry you are.  :o
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: vinyl_lady on 8 Jul 2013, 05:17 pm
Looks great VL!
What are you using for marinade?
Hibuck...

Thanks.

I coated the brisket with L & P Worcestershire sauce in a foil pan and followed with Kosher salt, garlic & onion powder, a beef rub from The Pepper Palace, http://www.pepperpalace.com/, and a little celery salt on both sides. It spent 8 hours in the pan, fat side up before going on the grill.

Laura
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: vinyl_lady on 8 Jul 2013, 05:30 pm
Vinyl Lady, that looks amazing!
I almost bought a Traeger.....that's a lifetime unit right there!

Bob,

I have been enjoying the Traeger. It is so easy to use and I love the fact I can fill the hopper with pellets, set the temperature on the electronic control and pretty much ignore it for long periods of time. I now put my briskets on the night before. I've put ribs and chicken on at the smoke setting before going to work or to play golf. I bought the 2 shelf rack which allows me to have 3 shelves of ribs, etc for large gatherings. I still use my cast iron Cook n Kettle for small amounts of meat/chicken when I know I'm going to be home and can monitor and turn the meat, and always for fresh Pacific NW/Alaskan salmon.

You are right about the pros not cooking to an internal temp. They use the "feel" method. The KC BBQ Society cookbook says to use a probe and the brisket is done when the probe can be inserted and removed without feeling resistance.

Happy cooking (and eating :) )

Laura
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 8 Jul 2013, 05:38 pm
I did just that. And when I took it out of the cooler I had to use a circular saw to  cut it.  :lol:
Hmmm.....  :scratch:
That's a new one on me. I've only done a couple so, so my diagnostic skills are pretty weak. Not sure what happened.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 4 May 2014, 04:25 pm
I don't care it's cold and cloudy outside, It's May 4th for gods sake... It's time for my first smoke of the season. What's under the lid? Ribs of course  :thumb:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=98880)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: PeteG on 4 May 2014, 07:39 pm
I've been thinking about it, maybe a smoked Boston Butt in a week or two.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 4 May 2014, 07:50 pm
Done and in my tummy  :lol:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=98900)





Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 5 May 2014, 12:16 pm
I applaud your method of leak control.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 5 May 2014, 12:18 pm
works like a charm
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 5 May 2014, 03:19 pm
And inexpensive too.  :D
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 5 May 2014, 11:35 pm
And inexpensive too.  :D

Inexpensive ? Have you seen the price of painters tape lately ?  :lol:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 6 May 2014, 01:14 am
True, but it doesn't smell as bad a Play-doh when it gets hot.  :lol:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 13 May 2014, 09:10 pm
Salmon for Mothers Day. I didn't use the smoker. I put it on my kettle grill with some Cherry wood for smoke and it was the best Salmon I ever made :thumb:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=99353)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 14 May 2014, 03:37 am
Smoke Salmon is spectacular!  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 14 May 2014, 10:51 am
PeteG, :D

Ive been reading about these lately, It all electric, Right :?: NO charcoal :?:  And you can't leave it outside in the rain, correct, :scratch:
How long does it take to cook a couple of boneless chicken breast, from warming it up to done?
All you need to do is to put a small amount of wood chips in a pan, inside the unit, and plug it in, correct?

I think it cooks at about 200-250 degrees, that sound right?

Do you like it better than a charcoal grill?

Thanks
Steve

I’ve smoked meats in different grills and semi-smokers (brinkman) but never a true smoker until now.
The best luck I’ve had with charcoal and gas grills was to have one side set at the lowest heat
setting and put the meat on the other side, get a big sheet of aluminum foil put some wet hickory chips
in it and wrap it up in a ball poke some holes in it and put it on the heat side of the grill, 4 or so hours later you got some good smoked meat.

But now since I picked up a Masterbuilt smoker I have great smoked meat with unbelievable taste
and very moist, some of the best ribs I have ever eaten. 
(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=14793)

Masterbuilt Link (http://www.basspro.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Product_10151_-1_10001_97587_350005001_350000000_350005000?cm_ven=bazaarvoice&cm_cat=RLP&cm_pla=97587&cm_ite=productname_link)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 14 May 2014, 12:04 pm
Smoke Salmon is spectacular!  :thumb:

That's what my wife asked for for mothers day, so I went to the boat docks and bought a huge whole salmon Saturday morning and some clams. Grilled the clams and smoked a large piece of the salmon. Yummy!

As for that Master Built smoker, I owned it for a while but the electronics crapped out after about 2 years. I kept it going another year by basically rebuilding them, but eventually gave up the ghost. I now have a propane gas fired smoker which is very simple and works like a charm.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 14 May 2014, 06:18 pm
That's what my wife asked for for mothers day, so I went to the boat docks and bought a huge whole salmon Saturday morning and some clams. Grilled the clams and smoked a large piece of the salmon. Yummy!

As for that Master Built smoker, I owned it for a while but the electronics crapped out after about 2 years. I kept it going another year by basically rebuilding them, but eventually gave up the ghost. I now have a propane gas fired smoker which is very simple and works like a charm.

BobM,

Is it something like the pic below?  Do you have a link or pic to it?  I just have a standard round weber grill. Would like to get something better. 

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=99392)












Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 14 May 2014, 08:12 pm
Here you go - Master Forge from Lowes. You will just need to buy and apply a separate gasket to seal the doors better (don;t know why they aren't included, they are essential to keeping the heat and smoke inside).

http://www.lowes.com/pd_411913-95393-MFX784BDP_0__?productId=4459479&Ntt=smoker&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3Dsmoker&facetInfo= (http://www.lowes.com/pd_411913-95393-MFX784BDP_0__?productId=4459479&Ntt=smoker&pl=1&currentURL=%3FNtt%3Dsmoker&facetInfo=)

(http://images.lowes.com/product/converted/872076/872076013822.jpg)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Rubbbq on 14 May 2014, 08:42 pm
Gas fired smokers are a bad idea. Most gas has mercaptan in it which has a terrible smell. When you use it for long cook times it in parts that flavor into the meat. Get a Weber smokey Joe. It's a little more work but the product will taste better...
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Rubbbq on 14 May 2014, 08:44 pm
Sorry, I ment smokey mountain.... http://www.lowes.com/pd_546471-505-711001_0__
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: saeyedoc on 15 May 2014, 01:21 pm
Sorry, I ment smokey mountain.... http://www.lowes.com/pd_546471-505-711001_0__
Yea, they are awesome. Nice and heavy so they hold heat well, have done a 10 1/2 hour cook without adding fuel.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: JonnyFive on 15 May 2014, 03:17 pm
Hey all, great thread.

I live in a pretty densely populated area, so so far I've only smoked with a "Old Smokey Electric".  It's all I can accommodate at this time.

My main interest is ribs.  I've used a 3-2-1 method at appx 200 degrees, following an overnight marinade recipe I took out of a Famous Daves book.  I have a couple questions.

I have various wood chips (hickory, mesquite, apple, pecan).  Are there any that should/shouldn't be used with ribs?

I soak the wood chips, is this wrong?  Should I re-add more chips throughout the smoking process?

I see some people get that nice pink look throughout, I do not.  I'm thinking this is because I braise them in the middle in tin foil.  If I skipped the 2 hour braise and just did 6 hours smoking, would this be better?

With the 3-2-1 method and the electric smoker (and the wet wood chips) they are always very wet.  To me this doesn't seem right.  Any thoughts on this?

Thank you all for your help!  This thread makes me hungry.

Jon

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: saeyedoc on 15 May 2014, 03:20 pm
I do my ribs using the recipe on the Vitrual Weber Bullitt site, I think it's 3 hours at 225 or so, then a couple more at 275. Works everytime.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 15 May 2014, 05:02 pm
Do not soak the wood chips!
Yes they'll burn up faster, but that's not a bad thing. There are actually folks that put the "flavor wood" next to the firebox so they are as dry as possible and are already warmed up prior to adding the to the coals. The food network guy Alton Brown had a great segment about the chemistry behind why you want your wood dry and warmed up before it's put on the fire. Chemically, the smoke created from wood that's burning efficiently (hotter) is more tasty that wood that is kept wet and colder than the point of combustion due to being soaked. It's actually healthier too, as the cold wet wood puts off for carcinogens as it's coming up to temperature compared to the hotter drier wood.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: JonnyFive on 15 May 2014, 05:05 pm
Thanks Bob, ok dry wood.

Using the electric smoker, do I need to re-add wood at any point?  Should I try a completely uncovered method for 6 hours, or stick with the 3-2-1 with the middle being a braised/wrapped portion?

Thanks, Jon
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 15 May 2014, 05:31 pm
No worries Jon, glad to help.

If I was using an electric or propane smoker, I would try >> one of these "tubes" << (http://www.amazenproducts.com/SearchResults.asp?Cat=12) that hold the chips/dust. Those will burn quite long. That way, you don't have to keep opening your smoker (letting the heat out) to check on and add wood chips. Plus, the tube gets hot and stays hot, giving a cleaner burn than if you keep stoking it with cold wood

When I do ribs, I do a 3-1-1 method. The hour in the middle, I wrap in foil and put in either:
- Dr. Pepper (or Coke)
- Mustard (fancy)
- Apple sauce (yes, sauce, not juice)
- Butter (not margarine)
- Brown Sugar
- More dry rub

My family has given rave reviews of each of these variations.  :thumb:
Bob
Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: JonnyFive on 15 May 2014, 05:37 pm
Awesome, Bob!  Thanks so much.  One last question, the "Old Smokey" has a tray in the bottom (8.75" by 8.75") that holds a thin layer of wood chips.  This sits on top of a heating coil.  How would you recommend using the tube instead?  Or would you recommend a new pan instead of the stock pan?

Here's the heating coil that the pan sits on:

http://galleryplus.ebayimg.com/ws/web/171095430544_1_0_1/1000x1000.jpg

Here's the stock tray:

http://www.amazon.com/Old-Smokey-Electric-Smoker-Replacement/dp/B001EK02TY

Thanks, Jon
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 15 May 2014, 05:51 pm
I'd worry that if you laid the tube directly on the tray, it might just burn the entire thing all at once. It's designed to lite one end, and let it slowly progress across the tube over the course of several hours. Like a real slow fuse.
I guess I'd have to see the inside of the smoker itself to see if there's enough room to stand it vertical.  :scratch:

...or maybe use some foil to shield the tube from the heat of the element ...or set the tube on one of the shelves.....(now I'm just thinking out loud).

Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: JonnyFive on 15 May 2014, 05:55 pm
I'll take some measurements of the inside and give it a try, Bob.  I see what you're saying about trying to create a slow burn.  Currently all the chips burn pretty quickly because they are all in contact with the heat.  I'll experiment.  Thanks again. -Jon
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Rubbbq on 15 May 2014, 06:26 pm
In my BBQ experience, which is vast, there is no right or wrong way , only the way you like to do it…... And that’s the fun of it.

I agree with Bob, don't soak the wood. You want the wood to burn. You want a blue smoke not a billowing white smoke.  A white smoke won’t give you the flavor or smoke ring you are looking for.

The wood you use is  based on the flavor you want to impart. With that said I wouldn't use mesquite for smoking any meat. I would use mesquite only for hot grilling.... and NEVER use green mesquite for anything.

Tinfoil is a NO, NO in my book. We call it the Texas crutch. If i were going to use tinfoil I would use it in the first cook not the second or third. The reason being, is that when you wrap the meat in foil all you are doing is steaming it.. Why smoke the meat only to steam out the smoke you put into it.

When I’m cooking ribs I like to run the pit around 250. This let’s the rub set up nicely.  Also, peel the skin off the ribsm, Smoke won’t penetrate through the skin. Time and temperature is a good way to go but just because you cook something for X amount of time at X temp doesn’t mean it will be cooked properly. Remember that racks are not all uniform in size and weight. The best way to know if the ribs are done is to pick up the rack at both end and if it fold over it’s ready. Most people think that falling off the bone means it’s ready. Falling off the bone really means the ribs are over cooked.. …..One more tip, keep the pit closed. We have a saying”if your looking you ain’t cooking”
And most of all… enjoy yourself…


This is a good book that goes over a bunch of your questions and has some good recipes
 http://books.google.com/books?id=zoKRq8GDwH8C&source=gbs_similarbooks

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: JonnyFive on 15 May 2014, 06:32 pm
Wish they had a "thanks" button on this forum.  Thanks! -Jon
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 15 May 2014, 08:39 pm
Well anybody that comes to an audio forum with the name "rub bbq" certainly shows where his priorities are.  :thumb:
So I'd say that when he says his experience is vast, then he's not just blowin' smoke (no pun intended)

I agree 100% that if you enjoy what you're eating, then you're doing it right.

The use of wraps (foil or butcher paper... "The Texas Crutch") is an endless debate. It's much like our arguments about tubes versus solid state, or what kind of cable sounds best. Suffice it to say that many professional BBQ chefs have won many an award and some use the crutch, and some don't. I would recommend you do it both ways and see which YOU like best.

Very true what he said about Mesquite though. I'd use it for very hot and very fast....steaks and burgers.
I wouldn't smoke with it, it gets too "rich". That seems to be the general consensus among the vast majority of BBQ guys.

"Fall off the bone" is for people that don't know how to cook ribs. At that point it's stew meat.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Rubbbq on 15 May 2014, 10:06 pm
Bob, I definitely didn't want to start a BBQ flame war :duh: To each there own with tinfoil. As Bob stated many pit master use tinfoil, I'm just old school when it comes to that.... Just like tubes versus solid state, this argument will rage forever...

Bob, have you been to Bogart's is St Louis yet? Skip the Pitmaster/owner is a good buddy of mine
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: S Clark on 15 May 2014, 10:19 pm
For those of us in mesquite country, we've learned that you can "sweeten" the flavor of mesquite smoke by stripping the bark and using well seasoned wood.  Most of the west Texas BBQ joints use either mesquite or a mesquite/oak mix for ribs and briskets.  Far east TX cooks often are partial to hickory and sassafras.  Most folks use what's available and learn to make it work.  I've read grapevines are popular in California.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: bearman2 on 15 May 2014, 10:54 pm
I like to use mesquite with a whole chicken on the rotisserie on my gas grill which takes around 3 hours. With pork, I like to use hickory with apple and with salmon I use just apple. Salmon and pork I will do in my electric smoker.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 15 May 2014, 11:32 pm
Bob, I definitely didn't want to start a BBQ flame war :duh:
No Sir, not at all. Please don't take any of my statements as inflammatory. I was just trying to show both sides that "some do, some don't, neither is wrong".
I'm on your side man, totally. It's all about the food brother.   :thumb:
Here's a virtual hand shake and a beer on me............  :beer:

Thanks man, I'll talk about "Q" any day with you.
What part of the territory do you reside?

Bob
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: vinyl_lady on 16 May 2014, 12:53 am
For those of us in mesquite country, we've learned that you can "sweeten" the flavor of mesquite smoke by stripping the bark and using well seasoned wood.  Most of the west Texas BBQ joints use either mesquite or a mesquite/oak mix for ribs and briskets.  Far east TX cooks often are partial to hickory and sassafras.  Most folks use what's available and learn to make it work.  I've read grapevines are popular in California.

Sassafras is my favorite wood. A little goes a long way. My father worked in the east and west Texas oilfields and taught me how to BBQ. He liked to use hickory, mesquite, sassafras and oak.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: BobM on 16 May 2014, 12:56 pm
Tried hickory with my salmon, very good but maybe a little too overwhelming. So I tried cherry, too light. I used a blend of the two last week and the fish was very good indeed.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: WireNut on 17 May 2014, 05:16 am
 When I got off work tonight I drove pass a BBQ competition going on this weekend in West Chester Ohio. Unfortunately it was closed for the night, but all the competitors had their grills fired up and cooking for tomorrows competition.

I've never been to a BBQ competition before, but you can bet I'll be there tomorrow like this  :drool:

What I did see walking up to the closed event, was that some of the competitors were using 55 gallon drums with what looked like a standard round Weber grill top cover over the 55 gallon drum.

Looked pretty simple, smelled so damn good.

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 17 May 2014, 11:46 am
the fun thing in texas is you can just walkup and be a judge whereas in kcbs sponsored events you have to pay and go to class to be a certified judge.
http://texasbbqforum.com/
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 17 May 2014, 01:22 pm
What I did see walking up to the closed event, was that some of the competitors were using 55 gallon drums with what looked like a standard round Weber grill top cover over the 55 gallon drum.
There's an entire underground "cult" of folks using "Ugly Drum Smokers".
It started out as a cheap way to DIY a smoker, but has caught on to the point where you can now buy a "UDS".
https://www.bigpoppasmokers.com/store/drum-smoker-kit-parts
There are as many mods and upgrades to a UDS, as there are to any piece of audio equipment.

Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 24 May 2015, 12:04 pm
 Well I kicked off grilling season with a brisket on the smoker, yummy. Wow it's been a year since the last post  :lol:

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121602)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 24 May 2015, 03:34 pm
Smoking up the neighbor at 6 this morning.  :thumb:


 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121622)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 24 May 2015, 03:39 pm
Smoking up the neighbor at 6 this morning.  :thumb:


 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121622)

I started at 4am. Beat ya... lol
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 24 May 2015, 03:43 pm
 :rotflmao:


 :lol:


 :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: vinyl_lady on 24 May 2015, 03:57 pm
BBQ, smokin' and grilling season is 365. Posting season appears limited. :lol:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 24 May 2015, 05:26 pm
Still smoking  :lol:


 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121624)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 24 May 2015, 05:37 pm
My brisket is resting so wet your appetite on these little babies. My wife wouldn't let me wrap them in bacon :nono:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121625)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 24 May 2015, 06:32 pm
getting ready to put on some ribs, sausage, fingerling potatoes, and corn on the cob.
trung t i sure could use some of that wood.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 24 May 2015, 07:30 pm
You are welcome to stop by to pick up those Pecan woods ;)


 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121631)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 24 May 2015, 08:04 pm
BBQ, smokin' and grilling season is 365. Posting season appears limited. :lol:
Amen Sister!  :thumb:
The BBQ forum I'm on has a thread about "how cold has it been when you've smoked".
There are guy smoking food when it's down way past zero (F).
I recall one guy was something like -40.  :o

Great to see Charles cooking a bunch of nekkid fatties though!  :eyebrows:

Trung, I love your smoker and pile of wood. I'm envious!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 24 May 2015, 08:18 pm
Amen Sister!  :thumb:
The BBQ forum I'm on has a thread about "how cold has it been when you've smoked".
There are guy smoking food when it's down way past zero (F).
I recall one guy was something like -40.  :o

Great to see Charles cooking a bunch of nekkid fatties though!  :eyebrows:

Trung, I love your smoker and pile of wood. I'm envious!

I joined that forum yesterday and I can't post anything. Im waiting for a admin to get back to me.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 24 May 2015, 08:36 pm
The BBQ-Brethren forum?  :o
There's a couple ACers on there too. I know Rob Babcock is on there (although I never see him post).
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 24 May 2015, 08:37 pm

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121638)

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121637)

Here is the brisket
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 24 May 2015, 08:38 pm
The BBQ-Brethren forum?  :o
There's a couple ACers on there too. I know Rob Babcock is on there (although I never see him post).

Yep i remembered either you or Bob mentioned it last year
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 24 May 2015, 08:39 pm
Thanks Bob  ;)
Brisket is wrapped up with apple juice for 2 hrs. :thumb:
Charles - Yummy  :drool:


Time to make the "Fixing"  :lol:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 24 May 2015, 08:42 pm
Thanks Bob  ;)
Brisket is wrapped up with apple juice for 2 hrs. :thumb:

Don't forget the pictures
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 24 May 2015, 08:58 pm
Yep i remembered either you or Bob mentioned it last year
Yes. Rob and I talked about it, in this thread if memory serves.
LOTS of great information over there. So much knowledge.
Glad to have you on board!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: marvda1 on 24 May 2015, 09:16 pm
here's another great site.
http://www.texasbbqforum.com/
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 24 May 2015, 10:01 pm
"Fixing"  :thumb:


 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121639)


 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=121640)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 25 May 2015, 01:13 am
Looking great so far!  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: hibuckhobby on 25 May 2015, 01:37 pm
Working away from home so I don't have access to my Traeger, so today we're going to
try some pork shoulder cushion meat on my gas grill using indirect heat and a a-maz-in
wood pellet tube to add smoke.  Wishing all the veterans a blessed day.  I'd do it all over
again if asked.
Hibuck...
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 25 May 2015, 02:07 pm
using indirect heat and a a-maz-in
wood pellet tube
Those are great little units. I'd highly recommend them to anyone using gas or electric cookers to provide some smoke.

http://www.amazenproducts.com/Default.asp
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 25 May 2015, 04:13 pm
Those are great little units. I'd highly recommend them to anyone using gas or electric cookers to provide some smoke.

http://www.amazenproducts.com/Default.asp

Ill have to check these out
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 25 May 2015, 04:16 pm
Indeed!
I don't own a gas or electric smoker, so I don't use one of them. The BBQ guys that do though, are all over them and speak highly of them.
I've recommended them to a few coworkers that have electric smokers and they love them.
They've removed the factory wood chip tray and got a tube to replace it. They're getting much more smoke for a longer time period than ever.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: mcgsxr on 25 May 2015, 06:52 pm
I feel like a hillbilly!

I just wrap up some wood chips in tinfoil and toss it into the Weber charcoal kettle when I do chicken etc.

I never use smoke in my gas grill, the Napoleon is kept for fast family cooking.  Long weekends belong to the Weber kettle!
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 25 May 2015, 07:17 pm
That works too!
You poke holes in the foil?
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: mcgsxr on 25 May 2015, 09:34 pm
I let the girls poke the holes.  It produces plenty of smoke, but I imagine far less predictably and controlled vs an actual device for it.

I still find it hard to adequately smoke stuff, and not just cook it with smoke.  Takes time and experimentation I suppose.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 25 May 2015, 10:30 pm
Experimentation is the fun part!  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Charles Xavier on 6 Oct 2015, 09:52 pm
Thought I would post this here. It looks like a great deal, anyone have any insight on pellet grills ? 379.00 on Woot

http://tools.woot.com/offers/pellet-grill-smoker-digital-temp-control-5?utm_campaign=Amazon+Daily+-+20151006+-+Tools.Woot+-+pellet-grill-smoker-digital-temp-control-5&utm_source=Amazon&utm_medium=email



Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 7 Oct 2015, 12:06 am
I've never heard of the brand, and that's awful cheap.
Might be good for somebody wanting to dip their toes into the waters of pellet smoking.
Personally, I'd go for the base model Traeger (http://www.homedepot.com/p/Traeger-Junior-Elite-Combination-Grill-TFB29LZA/205708560?cm_mmc=Shopping%7cBase&gclid=CjwKEAjw4s2wBRDSnr2jwZenlkgSJABvFcwQFf0j9KSTSwZfe8GNmSuzF-dwNlPp8fz3wWL-r_F_rBoCjivw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds) for not much more.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: hibuckhobby on 7 Oct 2015, 12:24 am
It's a camp chef.   Very similar to Traeger with a couple of extras.
They seem to have a decent following.  The extra temp probe is nice.
Hibuckhobby...
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 7 Oct 2015, 12:29 am
Roger that, thanks for the info.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Johnny2Bad on 20 Sep 2016, 10:31 am
We make them out of old refrigerators. The older, the better (the tar & paper-insulated round cornered ones from the '50's are awesome, but are becoming collectible so perhaps not cost effective) but any will do.

Converting a 'fridge to a smoker means punching holes in it, so kids can't suffocate should they somehow get inside one, but it's a good idea to put a hasp and padlock on the door to keep the Nanny State from harassing you.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 5 Jan 2017, 02:45 am

 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=155893)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=155892)
[/size]
 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=155894)
[/size]
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 6 Jan 2017, 03:52 pm
You're doing it right.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 26 Mar 2017, 07:29 pm
Bump.  8)

(http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k60/BobinStLouis/Food/Random%20Yummies/DSC_0128_zps6jihnwyz.jpg) (http://s85.photobucket.com/user/BobinStLouis/media/Food/Random%20Yummies/DSC_0128_zps6jihnwyz.jpg.html)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 26 Mar 2017, 11:15 pm
(http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k60/BobinStLouis/Food/Random%20Yummies/DSC_0131_zpsoupcervz.jpg) (http://s85.photobucket.com/user/BobinStLouis/media/Food/Random%20Yummies/DSC_0131_zpsoupcervz.jpg.html)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 26 Mar 2017, 11:55 pm
 :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 27 Mar 2017, 12:45 am
:thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Thanks!
As good as that looks, that was the back side!
Here's the final product:

(http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k60/BobinStLouis/Food/Random%20Yummies/DSC_0132_zpspcah7tuh.jpg) (http://s85.photobucket.com/user/BobinStLouis/media/Food/Random%20Yummies/DSC_0132_zpspcah7tuh.jpg.html)

(http://i85.photobucket.com/albums/k60/BobinStLouis/Food/Random%20Yummies/DSC_0134_zps62ydemrv.jpg) (http://s85.photobucket.com/user/BobinStLouis/media/Food/Random%20Yummies/DSC_0134_zps62ydemrv.jpg.html)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 27 Mar 2017, 12:46 am
Oh... and just for the record.... NO... sauce was used. Only rubs and juices.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 27 Mar 2017, 12:49 am
Oh my......... :thumb:
 ;)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Philistine on 3 Apr 2017, 02:47 pm
Thanks for the heads up on the Amazen smoker - picked one up last week and used it yesterday in a Masterbuilt electric smoker, great ribs.  Brisket next :thumb:


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=160349)


(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=160350)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 3 Apr 2017, 02:57 pm
Awesome, glad you like it! Ribs look great.  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 3 Apr 2017, 04:09 pm
Might have to find a good recipe for this one.

(https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/17759897_195277630973416_3087485977018257216_n.jpg?oh=ce7af6e06f96757f6165a55e44fae3d4&oe=59522205)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: mcgsxr on 3 Apr 2017, 05:11 pm
And I was hoping for an April 1st post date =  :o

I bet Bosch was used to "render" that leg - I'd do with the sawzall personally...
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 4 Apr 2017, 09:01 pm
22 TIPS for better pork ribs.
Pay particular attention to #18  8)
http://barbecuebible.com/2013/06/21/rib-tips-hup-your-game-with-slabs-bones/
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 9 Jul 2017, 01:36 am
 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=165215)
 :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 9 Jul 2017, 02:51 am
Nice!!!! Thanks for the bump!  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 28 Jul 2017, 11:22 pm
Pull pork  :thumb:


 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=166114)


 (http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=166115)
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 29 Jul 2017, 01:00 am
Nice!!  :thumb:
This weekend, I'm doing a three pound chuck roast in the "camp" dutch oven.
Next weekend, I'm doing two boneless legs of lamb on the smoker.
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 29 Jul 2017, 01:24 am
Sounds awesome  :thumb:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Brettio on 29 Jul 2017, 03:42 am
I never thought about smoking a leg of lamb..... :duh:
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: Bob in St. Louis on 29 Jul 2017, 01:10 pm
I never thought about smoking a leg of lamb..... :duh:
Indeed!
They turn out looking something like this:
(I robbed this photo from one of the BBQ guys)

(http://i63.tinypic.com/x1dhtz.jpg)

Here's the thread:
http://www.bbq-brethren.com/forum/showthread.php?t=245245&highlight=boneless+leg+lamb
Title: Re: True Smokers
Post by: TrungT on 14 Aug 2017, 01:43 am

(http://www.audiocircle.com/image.php?id=166936)

Pork shoulder, Texas style (salt&pepper), 12 hrs at 220, internal 205.  :thumb: