With spring here, we thought it was the perfect time to share our favorite smoker tips. Smoker season is definitely upon us! From fresh pork barbecue in the spring, to Boston butts in the fall, it’s a wonderful tool to have as a part of the backyard arsenal and sometimes overlooked. It’s Jamin’s favorite warm weather pastime, and entertaining with a smoker can be so much fun. So here are a few of the best tips for planning a backyard gathering. Along with a few of our favorite smoked and barbecue recipes that we’ve shared in the past, on the site. A good old-fashioned smoked meal always wins!
1. Best Tips for Entertaining with a Smoker: Know the Process.
Whether gathering with the family or a small grouping with friends, the process of smoking is different than simply cooking out. It takes a bit longer. If you’re new to smoking, a little research ahead of time will go a long way with figuring out the right cooking time and how to properly prep the meat. There are plenty of acceptable ways to prep meat, from soaking in a brine to a simple dry rub and various combinations in between, and it all comes down to the recipe.
It might be a little trial and error to craft the unique taste everyone loves. A smoked meal outdoors with friends and family can be a simple and fun process. Just make sure to do all the homework ahead of time so that enjoying the fun is also possible!
2. Best Tips for Entertaining with a Smoker: Provide the Right Fuel.
Knowing the difference between wood chips, lump charcoal, and traditional charcoal is key. It goes hand in hand with prep time. Knowing what kind of fuel works best for the smoker and the meal that’s being planned, is a great approach for being ready.
Similar to the meat prep, the wood can infuse and bring out different flavors in the meal. Know what flavor is planned, and burning the appropriate wood will help create a delicious signature dish. If it’s the first time with a smoker, build in a little extra time to play with getting the temperature right. This is the key to a successful low and slow cook.
3. Best Tips for Entertaining with a Smoker: Provide Entertainment for Guests While They Wait.
A well-smoked meal is worth the wait. This is why prepping ahead of time is oh so smart. Whether it’s just the kids and family, or a party at hand, plan the gathering in a place where people can still gather and enjoy themselves while waiting. That way everyone can appreciate the process. From a good game night, to a full-on swim party, the possibilities are endless. Even a little appetizer is smart, if it might be a minute until it’s ready to go.
Smoking is different than grilling and there’s a lot of down time where the meal simply takes care of itself. So have some fun while taking in those savory smells.
4. Best Tips for Entertaining with a Smoker: Store it Wisely.
Smokers get really hot while cooking, so it’s important to have the right space when in use, and when storing it. Too close to the house is a no-no, so make sure that the yard or patio area has a nice reprieve for all things prepping meals. It’s also important to note that true to its name, though delicious, smokers give off a smoky scent. It can be fun, but it’s sure to leave a lingering scent in the home if left too close to an awning. Choose carefully where to use and store it when not in use. Be sure to keep it safely out of reach of small hands, as well.
5. Best Tips for Entertaining with a Smoker: A Few Useful Recipes
Because backyard entertaining with a smoker is all about good food, we’re sharing some of our favorite barbecue + smoker recipes right here. You know, to get us ready for the season and everything.
But first, our favorite ribs! They’re fall-off-the-bone, good.
What you’ll need:
• St Louis style ribs – We normally smoke as many racks as we can fit on the smoker
• Apple Juice
How to prepare and cook
• Marinate the meat in apple juice for 24 hours.
• Add a dry rub of all three seasonings to the meat. Be very generous here, the seasonings will form almost a thin skin on the meat.
• Follow the 3:2:1 rule
3 hours on the smoker at 225 degrees with as much smoke from the apple chips as you can get.
2 hours in the oven. Take the meat off the smoker, place it in a deep pan add 1-2 cups of apple juice, and tightly cover with tin foil. Allow it to cook for 2 hours at 225 degrees in the oven.
1 hour back on the smoker uncovered at 225 degrees.
Enjoy!
And here’s a list of even more awesome back yard recipes:
• barbecue pineapple chicken recipe
• our fave smoked pork sliders
• chicken sliders + more tailgating ideas
• avocado bruschetta chicken
• cheesy chicken burrito bowl
• easybarbecue bacon chicken
• grilledHawaiian shrimp
• grilled chickenblue cheese salad
We’ll be sharing more {specifically smoker} recipes coming up, but if you’re thinking about getting into it, we hope this is a great start for you! Hopefully, this look at smokers and bar-be-cue season has everyone ready for fun in the yard. We’re ready warm weather season!
Happy cooking, and may the fun gatherings commence. Have an inspired day!
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