Prepping your grill for smoking
Since a grill doesn't include a wood chip tray, you'll need to get a bit creative. Take your wood chips and wrap them in aluminum foil to create a small packet. Then, use scissors or a knife to make a few holes on top. These will serve as ventilation holes, allowing the smoke to escape and infuse your cooking chamber with delicious flavor.
Next, find an aluminum tray that you’re willing to use and fill it with water. Similar to a smoker, the water will heat up and produce steam, which is excellent for maintaining a stable temperature in your cooking chamber. Additionally, it will help your meat absorb the aromatic smoke more effectively.
Now, let’s discuss the fire setup. You’ll be using a two-zone fire for this, so even though you’re not lighting it just yet, it’s wise to plan which part of the grill you’ll utilize. If you have a gas grill, keep the burners on one side off (the cool zone) while turning up the heat on the other side (the hot zone). For a charcoal grill, simply stack your coals on one side and leave the other side empty.
Getting to smoking
On the big day, take off the grates from your designated hot zone and position the water pan on the burner. For the wood chips, place them next to the pan, as close to the heat source as possible without risking combustion. If you have a heat deflector available, set both the water pan and the wood chip packet on it to prevent them from overheating. If you're using a charcoal grill, you can place the pan and wood chip packet directly on the coals.
Now, ignite your grill and ensure the temperature ranges between 225 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit. As the heat increases and the wood chips begin to smolder, place your meat in the cooler area of the grill and close the lid. Remember, you'll need to replace the wood chip packet every three hours, so if you're planning an extended smoking session, prepare several packets in advance and change them out regularly. Keep an eye on the water pan as well, refilling it when the water level gets low. Once the meat probe indicates it has reached your desired doneness, turn off the heat and enjoy.
So, before you invest in that high-end smoker, remember that a good grill is all you need to create a delicious, smoky, slow-cooked meal right in your backyard.
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