Mar
Use Care in Selecting Your Vertical Smoker
This is a guest post
Listen. If you buy a smoker, I advise that you buy a vertical smoker. The big thing I like about a vertical smoker is that the smoke and steam are focused in a smaller area, so your meats are smoked evenly without some parts drying out. One bit of advice, though: make sure it’s secure! Most come with legs or stands to keep them vertical, but take more precautions. It will keep you from almost burning down your home .
One of the best things about vertical smokers, compared to the type that sits lengthwise like a standard grill, is that the vertical cooking space results in juicy and delicious meats.
The first major decision when buying a vertical smoker is the fuel type. The most popular fuels are natural gas and charcoal, but electric smokers are gaining in popularity. Each one has its unique benefits and drawbacks, so take some time and decide which you want.
Charcoal is less expensive, provides a ritual, and gives the feel and taste of a more natural fire. However, it must be dutifully tended (which can also be a benefit, depending on what you are looking for) and watched to ensure the temperature is consistent . It can also leave a great mess.
Natural gas is clean burning, as long as you keep your vertical smoker well maintained, and it’s easier to maintain a consistent temperature. However, natural gas is pricier and the lengthy smoking process can really drain a tank fast.
Electric smokers use heated elements, rather than fire, to roast the wood chips to the smoking point. However, electric smokers obviously require an outlet nearby, and electricity in your area might be a bit pricey.
Aside from fuel, make sure you get a vertical smoker with a sturdy shell and protective coating both outside and in. Even with the coating, clean the interior of the smoker and let it to dry thoroughly. The worst thing is to bring a bunch of friends over for some smoked steaks only to find that your smoker is lousy with rust.
And like I said at the start, make sure the smoker is steady and not near flammable material, particularly if you buy charcoal or natural gas. I had some friends over for pork chops and we were hanging out on the deck. My smoker was smoking away on a wooden table and we were all having a couple and having a great time (maybe a little too great too quickly.) My guy Robbie was goofing off with a soccer ball and knocked the smoker over! It fell and smoldering charcoal flew all over the dried pine needles on the deck. We poured the ice water from the beer bucket on it, but had to turn the hose on to soak the entire deck and the ground around it. We were able to save the chops and toss them on the grill. Luckily, neither dinner nor the house were a total loss.
