BBQ Smokers & Smoker Cookers

What Is Smoking and Why Try It?

Smoking involves cooking food low and slow using indirect heat while building flavour through wood smoke. Using a BBQ smoker cooker can give larger or tougher cuts the time they need to become tender without rushing the process. It’s worth trying for the taste alone, but learning how different woods, temperatures and cooking times change the result is all part of the process and enjoyment. 

Benefits of Smoking Your Own Food 

One of the big benefits of smoking food is the flavour. It builds deeper than with heat alone, with different smoker fuels adding their own flair. Just by sticking to the fundamentals, even beginners can master the smoke, while experienced cooks can keep adjusting wood, temperature and timing for different results. There’s always another cut, flavour and technique to try.

Smoker Types Compared 

There are so many types of smokers for achieving different results, including:

Charcoal Smokers 

Charcoal smokers are a bit more forgiving, making them a good starting point with simple controls and traditional flavour.

Offset Smokers 

Managing a real fire produces authentic flavour, although you’ll need a bit more practice with closer attention.

Electric Smokers 

Electric controls help you maintain the set temperature and manage most of the cooking for you.

Gas Smokers 

With a gas smoker, you can easily adjust the heat, making it a popular choice for someone who smokes foods regularly.

Pellet Smokers 

Digital controls and automatic pellet smokers are a go-to for beginners, who love how easy it is to maintain a steady temperature.

Cold Smokers

Cold smoking uses lower temperatures to add smoky flavour to cheese, fish and other foods without cooking them.

Getting Started with Smokers 

The first time you use a smoker, it’s best to keep it simple while you get used to the temperature. When you’re selecting woods, oak will give you a balanced flavour, hickory provides a richer flavour, and mesquite is much stronger. Set the smoker on a stable outdoor surface away from anything flammable, then use a thermometer and other smoker accessories to manage the heat and learn different techniques.

Shop Smokers Online Today

The BBQ Store makes it easy to buy a smoker online with expert guidance here when you need it. Our team can help you compare models, choose wood, learn the basics and find replacement parts or accessories when you need them. 

FAQ's

Can I learn to smoke?

Absolutely. Pretty much anyone can learn to use a smoker following a few basic guidelines. With every cook, you’ll get a better understanding of temperature, timing and improving flavour.

What's the best smoker for beginners?

Water and pellet smokers are both beginner-friendly options. The right one for you depends on how hands-on you want to be. Contact The BBQ Store for help getting your best match.

How long does smoking take?

A lot of low-and-slow smokers take around 6 to 12 hours, depending on the meat and its size, and your smoker. Plan ahead and make a weekend activity of it.

What wood should I use?

Stick with cooking-grade hardwoods, such as oak, hickory or mesquite in your smoker, each bringing their own unique flavour. Never smoke with pine, softwoods or treated timber. 

Do I need experience to start?

Not at all. The BBQ Store can guide you through the basics, including fuel, temperature and timing. Every experienced pitmaster had to start somewhere.

Can I modify my smoker?

While some modifications can improve temperature control or add cooking space, such as upgraded grates, they can affect the smoker’s warranty. Check with The BBQ Store before modifying.