If you're a fan of smoked foods, then investing in a smoke generator for your smokehouse is a must. Not only can you use it to make delicious cold smoked salmon or smoke cheese, but you can also experiment with smoking other ingredients like butter, salt, oil, and kippers. But with so many options available in the market, it's important to choose the right smoke generator for your needs.
What is a Smoke Generator?
A smoke generator is a device that produces smoke for the purpose of smoking food. It is typically used in smokehouses, grills, or food chambers that have proper ventilation. The smoke generator burns wood shavings, pellets, or bisquettes to create smoke, which imparts a rich and smoky flavor to the food being smoked.
How Does a Smoke Generator Work?
There are different types of smoke generators available, each with its own unique mechanism. Let's take a look at three popular options:
Pro Q Cold Smoke Generator
The Pro Q Cold Smoke Generator is a maze-like device that you fill with wood shavings. Once you light the tea light candle at the outer end, the wood shavings start to smolder and release smoke. This generator has a long burn time, with one fill lasting up to 10 hours. However, it's important to ensure that the wood shavings are dry to prevent the generator from extinguishing midway through smoking. Additionally, you may need to purchase specific wood shavings from suppliers to ensure the right texture and purity of the wood.
Grillson Cold Smoke Generator
The Grillson Cold Smoke Generator is a perforated mesh box that you fill with wood pellets. It comes with a hand-held gas torch to ignite the pellets. Once ignited, the pellets slowly burn, producing smoke. The Grillson kit offers a variety of wood pellet flavors to choose from. While it provides a refined and effective smoking experience, the generator only runs for about 5 hours before needing a refill. It is also slightly more expensive compared to other options.
Bradley Smoke Generator & Cold Smoke Adapter
The Bradley Smoke Generator is an electrically controlled unit that uses Bradley bisquettes for smoking. It has a continuous feed system that can run for up to 9 hours. However, the generator emits heat, so it's necessary to use a cold smoke adapter to prevent heat from affecting the smoking process. The Bradley Smoke Generator is on the pricier side, and the operating cost can be higher due to the need for specific bisquettes. It is a reliable option for enthusiasts or semi-professional smokers.
Which Smoke Generator Is Best?
Choosing the best smoke generator depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Pro Q Cold Smoke Generator is a cost-effective option with a long burn time, making it suitable for extended smoking sessions. The Grillson Cold Smoke Generator offers a variety of wood pellet flavors and comes with a complete kit, making it an excellent gift option. The Bradley Smoke Generator is reliable and perfect for those who want a continuous feed system, but it comes at a higher price point.
A smoke generator is an essential tool for any smokehouse enthusiast. Whether you're smoking salmon, cheese, or experimenting with other ingredients, having the right smoke generator can enhance the flavor of your food. Consider your needs, budget, and preferences when choosing a smoke generator, and enjoy the smoky goodness in your culinary creations.
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