Choosing the right wood is as important as the meat itself. Wood adds flavor, depth, and complexity to your BBQ.
Popular Woods to Try:
- Hickory: Bold and smoky
- Mesquite: Strong, earthy flavor
- Apple: Mild, sweet aroma
- Cherry: Slightly sweet and fruity
- Walnut: Strong, use sparingly
- Maple: Mild and subtly sweet
- Peach/Pecan: Fruity and nutty flavors
Tips for Preparing Wood:
- Soak dry wood chips for at least 1 hour before use.
- Green (freshly cut) wood is ideal if available.
- Never use evergreen wood due to resin contamination.
Wood Pairings for Meat
- Beef: Hickory, mesquite, oak
- Pork: Apple, cherry, maple
- Poultry: Cherry, pecan, hickory
- Fish: Alder, apple, citrus woods
Start with one chunk or a handful of chips and adjust to taste. More isn’t always better—you want smoke, not a campfire.