Top smoking gear: smoker grills, electric smokers, and smoking pans

Smoking is a popular alternative to grilling. It’s a cooking method that is both traditional and trendy. Smoking allows for true craftsmanship—you can fine-tune flavors using different wood types and combinations. You can also experiment with a wide variety of recipes and ingredients, including meats, fish, vegetables, and cheeses.

Interested? This guide provides more information on smoking and helps you choose the right smoker for your needs.

How does smoking work?

To smoke food, sprinkle wood chips—such as alder, oak, apple, cherry, or hickory—onto the bottom or tray of the smoker. Prolonged exposure to smoke cooks the food and enhances its shelf life.

Cooking times vary depending on the food and the smoker. Whole cuts of meat take longer, while burger patties, sausages, chicken, and vegetables cook more quickly. The smoke flavor depends on several factors, including the quality and quantity of wood chips, the smoking temperature and duration, and the type of food.

Types of smoking equipment

Smoker grills and smokers

A smoker grill, also known as a smoker, is a dedicated appliance designed for low and slow cooking. Unlike traditional grills, smokers are built for long-duration smoking and slow-cooking processes that can last for several hours.

Smoker grills are available in charcoal, briquette, electric, gas, and wood-fired versions. These units are typically cylindrical or elongated and often feature multiple tiers, allowing you to smoke large amounts of meat simultaneously. Many models are also highly portable.