Holidays are on the horizon and my focus is shifting towards food and festivities. A good meal can compliment any special occasion or gathering. Smoking and grilling are unique cooking styles that offer a distinct taste to food and in zone 4 our weather is conducive to outdoor cooking. Using smoke is considered to be the authentic way to barbecue. True pit masters will say “no food is better than barbecue” and the essential ingredient is smoke. Distinct flavors are derived from the type of wood burned in your smoker or grill. The wood usually comes in chunks or chips and sometimes whole logs of apple and cherry. Hickory is known worldwide for its profound flavor when used to cook pork. Alder and mesquite are my personal favorites. There are numerous choices of woods, rubs and cooking methods. Experiment! Find what works for a unique and scrumptious holiday meal. Enjoy
