How to Use Wood Chunks for Smoking and Grilling

Great barbecue is all about the smoke. Whether you’re a barbecue chef or prefer grilling, whether you cook over charcoal, gas, or propane, wood-smoking chunks will improve the flavor of your food.
In this article, we will discuss:
- What is the purpose of using smoking chunks?
- How to use wood chunks for smoking and grilling
- How to use wood chunks with a charcoal grill
- How to use wood chunks with a gas grill or open fire
- Where to find high-quality wood chunks
Let’s get started:
What is the purpose of using smoking chunks?
Smoking chunks are both a flavor source and a fuel source. Chunks are ideal for use in barrel smokers, pit smokers, as well as charcoal grills since they produce hot coals and embers over time. Opening a smoker emits both heat and precious smoke.
How to Use Wood Chunks for Smoking and Grilling
When barbecuing or grilling with wood chunks, you may use a variety of methods to add flavor and smoke. You can even grill using the chunks themselves as fuel.
You don’t have to soak chunks of wood before using them, as you do with wood chips. (They absorb very little water, which is why wooden chips can float.) Wood chunks also continue to give off smoke for a long time after chips have burned away, giving it another big advantage in lengthy cookery.
How To use Wood Chunks With A Charcoal Gril
Direct Grilling
If you cook directly over the flames then you will want to place 2 to 3 wood chunks directly on top of the coals to produce that smokey flavor. Then cook over them.
Indirect Grilling
Similarly to direct grilling, you will want to place 2 to 3 to each amount of charcoal that is lit when grilling indirectly. Add more as needed (when the smoke is reduced or not producing).
How to Grill Directly Over A Wood Fire
A fantastic approach to using your chimney starter is to fill it with wood chunks and light them as you would charcoal. Pour the burning embers over the grill’s bottom when the flames have turned orange. Insert grate and start grilling directly over the smoke and flame.
Note: Charcoal burns more slowly than wood, so if you’re using a second chimney of wood chunks, be sure to light it quickly. When grilling food directly over wood, leave the grill unclogged (uncovered) at all times—otherwise, your meal will become very smoky.
How to Use Wood Chunks With a Gas Grill?
When using a gas grill, wood chunks are not as complicated to use as they may appear. Simply put three wood chunks into each burner box and then turn the burners to high. Replace the pieces as needed.
How to use Wood Chunks in an open fire
Start a fire with kindling or firewood. When your campfire is ready, add smoking wood chunks to the flames just before placing your meal on the grill.
Over a campfire is the most popular way to prepare over an open fire. This style of cooking has been on the rise in recent years.
Don’t want to bring a full-size grill to the beach or a small get-together outside? Bring along some smoking chunks and a Smokey Joe or a portable roll-up grill, and you’ll be ready to make hot dogs and s’mores in no time.
Where to find wood chunks that produce the best flavor?
Using high-quality wood is a key ingredient to producing a great smokey flavor and not many companies do it better than Cutting Edge Firewood. They use a kiln to dry out all their wood ensuring your wood chunks are free from moisture and mold. They will also deliver them to your doorstep.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wood chunks will give your dishes a smoky taste that can’t be achieved by smoking or grilling alone. The ultimate aim is to prepare properly cooked cuisine that you and your family can enjoy.