Smoked meat is a delicacy that many people enjoy cooking at home, as well as eating out in restaurants. Barbecue is a favorite among adults and children alike, making it a great option for most catering events. Learn more below about smoking meat and its benefits below.  

A Guide to Smoking Meat

What tools do you need to smoke meat?

To properly smoke meat, you need a smoke generator, thermometer, brisket knife, and heat-resistant gloves. An apron is also recommended to help you stay clean throughout the process. 

Smoke generators operate using electric, gas, charcoal, or pellets for fuel, and they come in various sizes. There are many models to choose from; they can be stationary, portable, configurable, and have other features that allow you to customize their smoking methods.

How long does it take to smoke meat?

When you're making homemade barbecue, you must consider the type of meat, its thickness, and your smoker's temperature. Most meats take six to eight hours to fully smoke, while larger slabs can take up to a day. Poultry and fish take between one to three hours to smoke, while pork, beef, and lamb usually take more than four hours. 

What are the benefits of smoking meat?

Smoking meats gives your cooked food a distinct flavor and preserves it for longer. This makes smoked meat a great option for catered events and cookouts since it gives people more time to enjoy the meal being served. Smoking food is also a healthier alternative to other cooking methods since it doesn't add any fats or oils to your meal. 

What wood chips should you use to make barbecue?

The best wood chip is a debatable topic; it depends on an individual's palette. However, most people prefer fruit or nut wood chip flavors for their meats, such as apple, maple, and hickory flavors. You should avoid cedar, cypress, pine, spruce, and other similar wood chips. These flavors create thick smoke and don't add appetizing flavors to the meat.

If you're interested in barbecue catering, order a delicious meal from Dickey's Barbecue Pit in Amelia, OH. This fast-casual barbecue restaurant features authentic recipes that are all smoked in-house and caters to the greater Cincinnati area. Call (513) 802-2700 to place an order, or visit the menu on their website.