Thursday, July 12, 2007

1st smoking musings

7-7-07 my lucky day

Finally bought a smoker. I had wanted one for years. Had waited fruitlessly through many birthdays, Father's Days, and Xmases. In anticipation of several closings I TOLD AJ, "let's go get one." She agreed enthusiastically.
We both Googled like crazy before leaving for Denver. We came up blank at a few stores but did buy a Masterbuilt electric digital "water smoker" (approved by the National Wild Turkey Federation, I'll have you know) at Bass Pro Shop in Denver. Great price and, surprisingly, a knowledgeable clerk who really helped. Also picked up a couple each bags of mesquire and apple chips to start flavor testing. Went to Borders books and got a copy of "Sublime Smoke" a book the helpful clerk recommended and off to the store for ingredients.

1 rack Costco "Back Ribs" (more than enough for two)

Rub spices from sublime Smoke "Berry fine Ribs"

KC Masterpiece BBQ Sauce

Two mini watermelons and Deli baked beans and cold slaw.

Set up the smoker, very easy, hardly any assembly, two screws.

Cut the rack in two and followed directions for the rub. Overnight in the fridge.

Had a problem getting the membrane off and ended up letting the removal go after a yeoman's try Get Pliers suitable for kitchen

Soaked a QT of Mesquite chips overnight

Next morning

Timer and temperature settings very simple and quick 225 degrees 4 hours

Overfilled the water tray. Only a scant half full next time, start with warm water

Brought the smoker up to temperature (about 15 minutes)

Placed the two halves on the 2nd rack, one up and one down

Loaded the chip filler and started to drool.

Used all of the soaked chips with two loads.

Got the idea somewhere to wrap the ribs in heavy foil after three hours. No foil next time

Flavors were wonderful. We'll try two sauces next time, maybe Jim Beam BBQ Sauce

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