There are more choices than ever when it comes to smokers. What type of fuel? What configuration? The options might seem overwhelming, but we’ll explain how they work, help narrow down the choices, and get you pointed in the right direction.
“If you’re going to smoke, an offset—the traditional Texas-style smoker—makes the best food,” says Jess Pryles, live-fire cooking expert and author of the book Hardcore Carnivore. “Offset is the purest way. It forces you to learn how to run the fire. With an offset smoker, the only way to control the temperature is the air intake. So, if you really want to learn barbecue craft, go offset.”
Well, that’s great, if smoking food is your passion and mastery of the smoker is your goal. But not everyone has the time, or wants to spend that kind of time learning—a lot of folks just want to make some delicious