In the Summer, We Like Things Smoky
Add extra flavor to your summer with our tips for smoking food and the recipes you need to host brunches, barbecues, and cocktail parties while the weather is warm and the smoke is hot.
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When summer comes, all our senses go on high alert — it’s as if they know the season is going to be a little extra. The sun is brighter longer and later in the day, beckoning us to take a morning walk, eat lunch alfresco, and watch the stars come out at night. The warm, sultry air calls for a quick dip in the nearest lake, ocean, or swimming pool. Tart cherries, tangy tomatoes, fresh basil, and sweet peaches brighten our plates and awaken our palates.
And when it’s time to make dinner or get together with friends, we embrace the action outside, lighting up our grills and smokers. The aromas that come from them make our mouths water and signify that good times and delicious foods are ahead.
Join us on the nearest patio, deck, park, or backyard to invite a little smoke into your summer. School may be out, but we have some lessons for you. Learn how to smoke a pork butt for your next pulled pork sandwich. We've got tips on how to smoke chicken at home, whether on a traditional off-set smoker, a charcoal or gas grill, or an electric pellet smoker. If ribs are your game, you’ll want to learn the 3:2:1 method for perfect slabs. And if you want to branch out to cold smoking, we have a lesson on how to cold smoke everything from salmon to cheese and even chocolate.
Once you’ve got the techniques down, it’s time to get into recipes. We talked to the best chefs and pitmasters around the country to get their recipes for South American-style smoked beef ribs, award-winning brisket, and a smoked turkey that might make your Thanksgiving the best one ever. You’ll find ways to kick off a party with smoky dips and snacks, pick up ideas for how to use that smoked salmon you picked up while on vacation at the coast, ways to upgrade brunch with smoked fish, and even get dessert in on the action with smoky grilled sweets. Alongside, pour a Smoked Cherry Bounce or create a smoky whiskey pairing with a selection of whiskeys that build off the flavor symmetry. With a little fire and smoke, even the most casual summer party feels next-level.
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