Matt Pendleton
There’s something incredibly joyful about using our smoker. The process is slow and deliberate, turning cooking into a relaxing and rewarding experience for our whole family. The aroma of the wood smoke, the anticipation as the meat slowly cooks, and the rich, smoky flavor that infuses every bite make it a truly unique culinary adventure. It's a way for us to connect with the food and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.
When it comes to meats, the variety we can smoke is astounding. We love smoking classics like brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, each bringing its own unique flavors and textures. A smoked brisket becomes tender and juicy, with a deep, rich flavor that’s hard to beat. Ribs develop a beautiful bark and a smoky, sweet flavor that’s just irresistible. Pulled pork, with its melt-in-your-mouth texture and smoky goodness, is perfect for sandwiches or on its own.
But the fun doesn’t stop there. We also smoke chicken, turkey, and even fish. Smoked chicken takes on a wonderfully rich flavor and stays incredibly moist. A smoked turkey can be the centerpiece of our holiday meal, offering a delicious alternative to the traditional roasted bird. And smoked fish, like salmon or trout, becomes a delicate, flavorful treat that’s great on its own or as part of a larger dish.
One of our most memorable events was a summer barbecue we hosted with friends and family. The star of the show was a whole smoked pork shoulder, which we started early in the morning. We seasoned it with a homemade rub the night before, letting the flavors meld together. As the pork smoked slowly throughout the day, we prepared a variety of sides and enjoyed the company of our guests.
The smoker did its magic, and by the time we were ready to eat, the pork was fall-apart tender and bursting with smoky flavor. We served it with fresh coleslaw, cornbread, and a tangy barbecue sauce. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, the scent of wood smoke, and the satisfaction of sharing a delicious meal made with care.
To top it all off, the rebate program we participated in totally repaid the full amount after seven years, which was the most exciting and unexpected end of the process.
Using a smoker isn't just about cooking; it’s about creating an experience for our family. It’s the joy of preparing something special together, the anticipation of the first bite, and the pleasure of sharing it with others. Whether it’s a casual weekend cookout or a festive celebration, our smoker transforms a meal into an event to remember.