If you’re a male between the ages of 27-35, it’s likely that you have – for whatever reason – acquired not just a specific taste for smoked meats, but also a desire to smoke said meats yourself. Call it evolution, but men have been fascinated with burning wood and radiating charcoal briquets for centuries. If you now find yourself to be one of these men, this is the guide for you.
Not many people know that there are a few smoking options out there: traditional smokers, electric smokers and pellet smokers. Each have their pros and cons but ultimately, you can’t go wrong with any option. Here are a few BBQ smokers that are fit for beginners in each one of these categories that you can consider.
Traditional Smokers
Smokers that require one to start and burn actual wood briquets or wood chips are usually called traditional smokers. Users must keep an eye on things like the amount of oxygen a fire gets, how much smoke is being vented and exactly how hot the inside of the smoker is at all times (that means a good set of thermometers). All of this is in addition to the temperature and cooking time of the meat. So when you think of doing a low and slow 16 hour cook, this can be a labor of love, but one that will be worth it at the end.
1. Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker:
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker stands out as an excellent choice for beginners entering the world of traditional BBQ smoking. Its build quality is exceptional, ensuring durability and resistance to rust over time. The ease of use is a key feature, making it accessible for both novices and experienced smokers. Assembling the smoker is a breeze, and the user-friendly design allows for straightforward operation.
Temperature control is a strong suit of the Weber Smokey Mountain, providing the ability to regulate heat with precision for various cooking styles. The heat retention is impressive, resulting in consistent temperatures throughout the cooking process (this might differ when smoking in cold climates). The built-in thermometer on the lid is a convenient feature, eliminating the need for additional temperature-monitoring tools.
While the cooking space may be relatively limited compared to larger smokers, the versatility of this cooker allows for smoking, grilling, and slow cooking. Although it is priced slightly higher than some entry-level options, the overall performance and reliability make it a worthwhile investment for those serious about their BBQ journey. Plus… it’s a Weber!
2. Char-Broil Offset Smoker American Gourmet Grill:
The Char-Broil Offset Smoker American Gourmet Grill is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. This traditional offset smoker is particularly suitable for beginners looking to explore both smoking and grilling. The offset firebox, adjustable dampers, and temperature gauge contribute to its versatility.
While it may benefit from some modifications for optimal performance, the affordability of this smoker makes it an attractive choice. The side shelf adds convenience during cooking, and its durable construction ensures a decent lifespan. For those seeking an affordable entry point into traditional smoking, the Char-Broil Offset Smoker is a solid contender.
3. Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker:
The Dyna-Glo Vertical Offset Charcoal Smoker is a vertical offset smoker offering good heat control and a spacious cooking area. Its porcelain-enameled steel construction enhances durability and heat retention. The vertical design allows for efficient heat distribution, resulting in flavorful and evenly cooked meats.
While some users may choose to make modifications for improved performance, the overall design and features make it suitable for beginners. The smoker’s performance, combined with its reasonable price point, positions it as an attractive option for those looking to dive into traditional smoking without breaking the bank.
Electric Smokers
The 2019 Fantasy Football season was good to me, and I used my Championship winnings to buy my very first smoker, which was a Masterbuilt electric smoker. Electric smokers are great options for users who are both new to smoking meats but don’t want to manage a fire for hours on end. Instead of a burning briquette, electric smokers use smaller wood chips over an electric burner to generate smoke. Compared to traditional smokers, the smoke generated by an electric smoker is more subtle but still effective when smoking. One additional benefit is most also come with electronic Bluetooth connections for temperature monitoring on your device.
Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker:
The Masterbuilt Digital Electric Smoker is a standout choice for beginners seeking convenience and ease of use. Its digital control panel and thermostat temperature control make it incredibly user-friendly. The side wood chip loading system simplifies the process of adding wood chips for that authentic smoky flavor.
One of its key strengths is the consistency in temperature, allowing users to achieve precise cooking results. The smoker is well-suited for those who may be new to smoking and want a hassle-free experience. While it may not provide the same depth of smoky flavor as traditional smokers, the trade-off in convenience and simplicity makes it an excellent choice for beginners.
Pellet Smokers
For beginners with deeper pockets pellet smokers are another option to break into the world of smoked meats. Not many beginners take this route because pellet smokers usually cost more than traditional and electric smokers, so it’s not a common option for people who are unsure if they’ll enjoy this new hobby. However, they are popular for their “set it and forget it” smoke/heat management, and results still come out just as good as the traditional route.
1. Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill:
The Traeger Pro 575 Pellet Grill is a top-notch pellet smoker that seamlessly blends convenience with versatility. Perfect for beginners, it features an intuitive digital controller that allows precise temperature adjustments, making it easy to achieve consistent results. The “Set-it and Forget-it” nature of pellet smokers is exemplified in this model, providing users with the freedom to focus on other aspects of their cooking.
With a generous cooking area, you can smoke, grill, roast, and bake with ease. The Traeger Pro 575 also benefits from Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling remote temperature monitoring and control via a smartphone app. While it comes with a higher price tag, the quality construction, advanced features, and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for beginners looking to step into the world of pellet smoking.
2. Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett:
The Green Mountain Grills Davy Crockett is a compact and portable pellet smoker ideal for beginners and those with limited outdoor space. Despite its smaller size, it doesn’t compromise on performance. The digital control panel simplifies temperature adjustments, and the built-in meat probe ensures your food is cooked to perfection.
What sets this pellet smoker apart is its portability. It’s perfect for tailgating, camping, or smaller gatherings. The Davy Crockett offers a good balance of affordability and features, making it an excellent entry-level option for those interested in exploring pellet smoking.
3. Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill:
The Camp Chef SmokePro DLX Pellet Grill is a versatile and user-friendly option that caters well to beginners. Featuring a large cooking area and a simple-to-use digital controller, it allows for precise temperature control. The automatic pellet feeder ensures a steady supply of wood pellets, making it easier for users to maintain consistent heat levels during the smoking process.
With additional features like a side shelf and a warming rack, this pellet smoker provides practicality alongside performance. The ash cleanout system simplifies the cleaning process, enhancing overall convenience. While it may be a bit more on the expensive side, the Camp Chef SmokePro DLX offers a robust and hassle-free pellet smoking experience for beginners.
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