Smoking is good. Don’t be surprised; we meant your food, and for once you need not apologize for lighting up!
This age-old cooking practice was used by villagers to preserve their food and also give it a distinctive smoky flavor. This produce, especially meat and cheese, could be packed and used during travel when hunting, or scouring for food could be a challenge.
SMOKE UP
Wood fire’s aroma reignites our primal instincts when early humans would gather around a bonfire to cook their day’s kill and share the meat around. Perhaps, this is why smoked food elicits a sense of nostalgia.
Realizing its growing popularity, many restaurants have started incorporating it in their menus. Vancouver-based 'Dunn's Famous Restaurant', for instance, is known for its hand-sliced smoked meat, while Montreal’s 'Smoke Meat Pete', as the name suggests, specializes in serving up deli items with smoked meat.
There are several reasons why smoked food has become so prevalent in recent times. In addition to the charcoal-y flavor it supplements to food, it is a healthier form of cooking. Meat, especially if cooked sous vide for a longer period of time, becomes tender as compared to grilling or searing, which only cooks the outer layer.
Smoking is also a healthier alternative as it does not require additional sauce. The products can be covered with salt and herbs, and during cooking, the food’s fat starts melting and draining away. This is another reason why this trend has found favor with health-conscious eaters.
EASY PEASY
Earlier, most farmhouse kitchens had a larder to store smoked food to be consumed throughout the year. However, with modernization, people realized that they could smoke food whenever required, courtesy smokers. This cooking apparatus, barbeques the food at low and measured temperatures in a controlled environment.
There are different varieties of smokers – charcoal, pellet, gas, kettle and electric – which can be used indoors or outdoors. The best thing about finding the right smoker is the thrill as one starts to plan hosting BBQ parties with platters of smoked fruits, vegetables, meat, cheese and nuts doing the rounds. Many folks prefer electric smokers that combine wood chips, water, and heat to produce smoke. It can be used in all kinds of weather – warm or cold – making it ideal for indoor and outdoor use. Additionally, since the food is not cooked on an open flame like charcoal smokers, it is relatively safer even if used in confined spaces, and the unique flavor is definitely an added plus.
SMOKING HOT
While selecting an electric smoker, it is important to check its material. Steel and porcelain-coated ones can endure lots of wear and tear and last longer. Moreover, size matters! So, take into account the average number of guests you would host during a BBQ party. The smoker should accordingly dish out around five rounds of foods to feed the desired numbers. After all, no one likes to hold empty plates at a party!
Since an electric smoker’s USP is wood chips, when buying one, check for a model with a wood chip box loader to add flavored wood chips. This can accentuate the food’s smokiness. Experts highlight that the Masterbuilt 20078715 Electric Digital Smoker Front Controller, 30-Inch has a side wood chip loading system to stack the chips. On the other hand, models like the Jim Beam BTDS76JB Bradley Smoker 4-Rack Digital Outdoor Smoker have an automatic wood feeder system, which feeds the smoke generator with wood chips from the tray, whenever required.
SIZZLE AND DRIZZLE
Since the smokers function with temperature and heat control, most electric versions come with a thermometer and timer. This allows you to set and control the temperature and time to prevent the food from getting under- or over-cooked. Also, check that your device has ventilation vents to release heat and smoke while cooking, just like a microwave, which maintains the internal temperature. While using the smoker, ensure that these vents are unblocked.
Another important aspect while choosing a smoker is to check whether it has a drip pan. This is where the grease, juices and food particles get collected during cooking, making it easier to clean the apparatus. If outdoor BBQ picnics are on your agenda, then a lightweight, portable electric smoker is an apt choice. The Char-Broil Deluxe Digital Electric Smoker offers great mobility courtesy its wheels and integrated handles so that you can move it around with ease.
Selecting the right electric smoker can exude smoky magic to your food. And a sleek device with the durable build will make it the pride of your party and home. So the next time you’re planning your big BBQ day, be sure to not pass up on a good chance to try this out and trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
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