If you enjoy the rich flavor and heady scent of smoked meats, you might have wondered about their origin. The practice dates back centuries and has evolved over the years to become a modern-day technique that lends food a distinctive flavor profile. Here's a guide to learn how smoked food came to be.

Where Did Smoked Meat Originate?

While there's no definitive date, it's believed that cavemen smoked their meats because they didn't have chimneys in their dwellings. Whenever they lit a fire, the smoke would overwhelm their hut or cave. Because they would leave meat hanging to dry inside their homes, they quickly learned that the smoke had the power to transform its flavor and lend it a richer profile. It even preserved the meat more efficiently.

Due to its preservative qualities, smoking became a common way of preparing and storing foods. At the turn of the 20th century, its popularity waned as chemically enhanced preservatives grew more popular. However, advancements in cooking techniques and a newfound appreciation for the depth of flavor revived the popularity of smoking meat later in the century.

How Is Meat Typically Smoked?

There are several ways to smoke meat. Cold smoking preserves ingredients for long periods and brings out their natural flavors. During this process, the food is smoked for hours or days. Note that cold smoking doesn't cook the meat, so it has to be cured fully before the smoking process begins.

Hot smoking, by contrast, exposes the meat to both smoke and heat. The method ensures that the food is both preserved and thoroughly cooked. It needs to occur in a controlled space, as too much heat can lead to moisture loss that robs the meat of its flavor. Finally, smoke roasting is a combination of smoking and roasting, done in a barbecue pit or a brick oven.
 

If you're in the mood for mouthwatering meat, visit Guava Smoked in Honolulu, HI. This BBQ restaurant is the only spot on Oahu where you can find delicious local-style recipes like smoked loco moco. There are also vegetarian options available for those who don't consume meat. Browse their menu online, and call (808) 913-2100 to place an order.