Okay, I finally ordered a 30" Masterbuilt electric smoker

[Tab]

Should get it this week. Which would be good, because I'm hungry.

I abandoned my gas grill because the burners and such had rusted through and it would cost me as much to fix it as buy new, so we got rid of it but now I'm surprised how much I relied on it. As an experiment, we're getting a smoker. Now, in theory, I could get a grill, and later get a smoker, but I'd have to convince my wife of that. If we get a smoker first and I complain it's inadequate, then we can justify a grill and then I'll end up with both a grill AND a smoker! Although if the smoker is good, I can probably just go with a small grill.

Now's the time to start learning about wood chips and such. I'm looking at smoking-meats.com, and similar sites. Any good recommendations?

- Tab

[Major Nikon]

1. I believe the Masterbuilt uses only chips

Chips are widely available. The most commonly used ones like hickory, apple, and cherry are usually available at grocery stores. If you want a bigger variety you can find them at BBQ stores and online. Hickory and a fruit wood like apple or cherry are great to start out with. You can use hickory for beef and pork while using the fruit woods for a more subtle smoke on things like fish and cold smoking cheese. I really like hickory for both beef and pork. Mesquite has a stronger flavor and pecan has a milder flavor compared to hickory.

[1dogleft]

2. apples and oranges

I do a LOT of grilling and smoking. If you like to grill(steaks, burgers ect) an electric smoker won't work (not hot enough) BUT if you want to learn the art of smoking ribs,pulled pork, brisket ect your on your way! Smoking-meat.com will be your best friend. From beginner to expert they can help you. ENJOY

[Tab]

3. So, I kinda like it, and kinda don't.

I mean, what do you want for $250?

Remote thermostat/thermocouple is great. You have to be careful using the remote as the remote or stove top will take precedence over each other. You should choose one or the other to control, otherwise it wipes out the others settings.

Manufacturing a little shoddy for a "masterbuilt". Scratches easily, which is forgiven, just costmetic, but after only a few uses the wood chip slug won't go in properly, making this a poor implementation.

Quality of food has been juicy but I have a lot to learn on smoking yet, so I won't get into that just yet.

Good thing to start on, though.