The sweet and savory aroma of smoked meat has a way of drawing people together, evoking memories of family gatherings, outdoor barbecues, and cozy nights spent around the dinner table. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just looking to try something new, there’s no denying the allure of a perfectly smoked piece of meat.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility and flavor of smoked meats. From classic beef brisket to innovative goat curry, these dishes are sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. Whether you’re a fan of spicy, sweet, or savory flavors, there’s something on this list for everyone.
So why not fire up the smoker and get ready to elevate your cooking game? In our next section, we’ll dive into the first few recipes that will have your mouth watering in no time…
Classic Smoked Beef Brisket
This slow-cooked brisket recipe is a staple of Texas-style barbecue, with its tender texture and rich, smoky flavor. Perfect for special occasions or everyday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole beef brisket (10-12 pounds), trimmed
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 2 cups wood chips (post oak, mesquite, or a combination)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, brown sugar, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Rub the dry mixture all over the brisket, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the brisket in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 10-12 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F.
6. Let the brisket rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 hours
Smoked Pork Shoulder with Apple Cider Glaze
Transform your pork shoulder into a tender and flavorful masterpiece by smoking it low and slow, then finishing it off with a sweet and tangy apple cider glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup wood chips (such as hickory or apple)
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together apple cider, brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork shoulder in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F.
6. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the pork shoulder with the remaining apple cider glaze.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Hickory Smoked Chicken Wings
Get ready to elevate your snack game with these tender and flavorful hickory smoked chicken wings! This recipe combines the richness of smokehouse flavor with a tangy kick.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1 cup hickory wood chips, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Remove the wing tips and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Toss the chicken wings in the marinade until fully coated.
5. Place the wings on the smoker racks and close the lid.
6. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until the wings reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Turkey Breast with Herb Rub
Elevate your turkey game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked turkey with the brightness of fresh herbs. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 (2-3 pound) boneless, skinless turkey breast
– 1/4 cup herb rub mixture (see below)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Herb Rub Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together herb rub mixture ingredients.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the turkey breast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the turkey breast in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Peppered Smoked Venison Steaks
Elevate your venison game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked meat with a punch of pepperiness. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 venison steaks (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 2 tbsp black peppercorns, freshly ground
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, black pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the venison steaks, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the steaks in the smoker, fat side up. Smoke for 2-3 hours or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C).
5. Remove from heat and brush with olive oil.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Lamb Chops with Rosemary
Experience the rich flavors of lamb paired with the earthy essence of rosemary, all wrapped up in a tender and juicy chop. This recipe combines the boldness of smoked meat with the brightness of herbs for a truly satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and garlic powder.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place lamb chops in the smoker for 2-3 hours, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Maple-Glazed Smoked Ham
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this sweet and savory maple-glazed smoked ham recipe, perfect for impressing your family and friends. With a balance of flavors, this dish is sure to become a new tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) smoked ham
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground cloves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and ground cloves.
3. Place the smoked ham on a rack in a roasting pan, skin side up.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to cover it evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Smoked Sausage and Peppers Skillet
Savor the bold flavors of smoked sausage and roasted peppers in this hearty one-pot wonder. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 cup cooked rice or crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced peppers and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the peppers are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the peppers and onions.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, accompanied by cooked rice or crusty bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Smoked Ribeye Steak with Garlic Butter
Elevate your steak game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked ribeye with the pungency of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1.5-2 lbs ribeye steak
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season the ribeye steak with salt and pepper.
3. Smoke the steak for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
4. While the steak is smoking, mix the softened butter with minced garlic in a small bowl.
5. Remove the steak from the smoker and brush with the garlic butter mixture.
6. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to melt the butter and caramelize the crust.
7. Let the steak rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours (including smoking time)
Smoked Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce
Elevate your dining experience with this sweet and savory dish that combines the richness of smoked duck breast with the tartness of cherry sauce. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or a romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 duck breasts
– 1 cup wood chips (your preferred smoking wood)
– 1 cup cherry jam
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season the duck breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Smoke the duck breasts for 4-5 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C).
4. In a saucepan, combine cherry jam, red wine vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Brush the smoked duck breasts with the cherry sauce during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 10-15 minutes (sauce preparation)
Smoked Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Transform your leftover pork belly into crispy, smoky burnt ends that are perfect for snacking or adding to sandwiches. This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves the combination of tender meat and crunchy texture.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory, apple, or a blend)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss the pork belly cubes with the spice mixture until evenly coated.
4. Smoke the pork belly for 4-5 hours, or until tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before cubing into burnt ends.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Smoked Salmon with Dill and Lemon
Elevate your brunch game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of smoked salmon with the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of dill.
Ingredients:
– 6 oz smoked salmon, sliced into thin pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped dill
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
2. Arrange the smoked salmon slices on a plate or platter.
3. Drizzle the lemon-dill mixture over the salmon, making sure each piece is coated.
4. Sprinkle chopped dill evenly over the salmon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is ready in minutes.
Smoked Meatloaf with BBQ Glaze
Elevate your meatloaf game with this recipe that combines the rich flavors of smoked meatloaf with a sweet and tangy BBQ glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into a loaf shape and place on the smoker for 4 hours.
4. Meanwhile, mix ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan to create the BBQ glaze.
5. Glaze the meatloaf with the BBQ mixture during the last 30 minutes of smoking.
6. Remove from smoker and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 4 hours
Smoked Tri-Tip with Chimichurri
Elevate your barbecue game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the rich flavor of smoked tri-tip with the bright, herby taste of chimichurri. Perfect for a summer gathering or casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (3-4 pound) tri-tip roast
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hardwood, such as mesquite or post oak)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the tri-tip roast.
4. Place the tri-tip in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Smoke for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.
6. Meanwhile, prepare the chimichurri sauce by combining red wine vinegar and chopped herbs in a small bowl.
7. Once the tri-tip is cooked, let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
8. Serve with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-5 hours
Smoked Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Get ready to sink your teeth into tender, smoky pulled pork piled high on a soft bun. This classic recipe is perfect for any gathering or game day party.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw or barbecue sauce, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place the pork in the smoker and cook for 8-10 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F.
5. Remove the pork from the smoker and use two forks to pull it apart into shreds.
6. Split hamburger buns in half and fill with pulled pork.
7. Serve immediately and offer coleslaw or barbecue sauce on the side.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Chicken Thighs with Spicy Rub
Elevate your grilling game with this easy and mouth-watering recipe for smoked chicken thighs. The spicy rub adds a tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the tender, smoky chicken.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup spicy rub (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon kosher salt
– 1/4 cup wood chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the spicy rub, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and kosher salt.
3. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
4. Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
5. Place the chicken thighs in the smoker, leaving space between each thigh for even cooking.
6. Smoke the chicken for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
7. If using wood chips, add them to the smoker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Smoked Beef Short Ribs
Savor the rich flavor of slow-cooked beef short ribs infused with a deep smokiness, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 bone-in beef short ribs
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory, apple, or cherry)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the short ribs.
4. Place the short ribs in the smoker, leaving space between each rack.
5. Smoke for 8-10 hours, or until tender and easily falling off the bone.
6. During the last 30 minutes, brush with beef broth to add moisture.
7. Let rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Smoked Goat Curry with Coconut Milk
Experience the rich flavors of India with this creamy and aromatic curry made with smoked goat meat, coconut milk, and a blend of spices. This recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked goat meat (or lamb), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onions and cook until golden brown.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add smoked goat meat and cook until browned.
4. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine.
5. Season with salt and black pepper.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 18 mouth-watering smoked meat recipes, perfect for any occasion! From classic beef brisket and pork shoulder to chicken wings, turkey breast, and even venison steaks, there’s something for every meat lover. Discover how to add a smoky twist to ham, sausage, lamb chops, and more. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just want to spice up your dinner routine, these recipes will guide you through the process of smoking meats to perfection. Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these flavorful and tender dishes!
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