What are wood chips and why use them?
Wood chips are small pieces of wood that can be used to add smoky flavor to meat when cooking on a charcoal BBQ. They come in a variety of wood types, each with a unique flavor profile that can enhance the taste of your food. Using wood chips is a popular technique among BBQ enthusiasts and can take your grilling game to the next level.
Choosing the right wood chips
The type of wood chips you choose will depend on the flavor you want to add to your food. Different wood types have different flavor profiles, so it’s important to choose the right one for your meat. For example, hickory wood chips are known for their strong and bold flavor, while apple wood chips provide a milder and sweeter flavor. Some popular wood types to consider include mesquite, cherry, oak, and pecan.
Preparing the wood chips
Before using wood chips on your charcoal BBQ, you’ll need to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This will prevent them from catching fire and ensure that they smoke, which is what you want for adding flavor. Once soaked, drain the water from the wood chips and transfer them to a metal or aluminum tray. Place the tray directly on the charcoal or on the grates above the coals.
Using wood chips with a smoker box
If you have a smoker box, you can use this to contain the wood chips and prevent them from catching fire. Simply place the soaked wood chips in the smoker box and then place the box directly on the charcoal or on the grates above the coals. The smoker box will allow the smoke to escape and flavor your food without the risk of flames.
Using the right amount of wood chips
When using wood chips on a charcoal BBQ, it’s important to use the right amount to avoid overpowering the flavor of your meat. Generally, a small handful of wood chips is enough for a single grilling session. For stronger flavors, you can add more wood chips, but be careful not to go overboard. It’s also a good idea to experiment with different amounts and types of wood chips to find the perfect flavor for your taste.
