Many Americans view barbecue as a religion rather than a cooking method, and the device they use as the altar to prepare their bountiful feast is incredibly important. Some choose to believe in smokers while others put their faith in grills. But in the smoker vs. grill battle royal, it turns out that both are equally capable of giving you a taste of heaven.
In a perfect world, there would be enough room for both a smoker and grill at your next tailgating feast or barbecue party. While there are many backyard barbecue savants who have achieved this level of greatness, sadly, most of us dont live in that world. Thats why were here to break down the important similarities and differences between smokers and grills—and give you a handy guide on which ones the best for your meat-cooking needs. [dam-video dam-id=”40160″ type_of_player=”jw” /]
Smoking is one of the best methods for cooking meat, as it combines the best of both flavor and texture. Of course, it is possible to smoke meat on most grills. However, you can usually get the best smoking experience and results with a BBQ smoker grill.
What meat is best to smoke?
Any fatty meat is great for smoking, such as chicken leg quarters, pork shoulder and beef brisket. You want fatty meat because smoking can make meat very dry, but the fat from these meats acts as a built-in baster as it slowly melts. This keeps the meat moist, though pit masters will still advise adding a baste for the best taste and mouthfeel.
People on both sides of the smoker vs. grill debate will argue that their side is superior for a number of reasons—theyre both wrong. Neither is superior to the other, its just a matter of preference between smoked meats and grilled meats. Smoked meats are fattier and take hours to cook. Grilled meats, however, are usually charred, and while they can be fatty, theyre leaner when compared to smoked meats. Theyre also ready in minutes, not hours.
Can a smoker be used as a grill?
A smoker can be used as a grill if the flame is close enough to the grill grates and you can get the flame hot enough. Some smokers cant be used as a grill, because the grates could never get hot enough to get that classic charred look.
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FAQ
What are the benefits of a BBQ smoker?
Is A smoker better than a grill?
Do I need a BBQ and a smoker?
Should my BBQ be smoking?
Are grills better than a smoker?
Grills offer more cooking methods. A grill offers greater versatility than a smoker. Whether it’s a charcoal, gas, or electric grill, the grill surfaces can reach 500 degrees Fahrenheit or more, allowing for searing of meat or slight charring of vegetables. It also means that a pan can be brought to the grill for frying or making sauces.
Can a pellet grill be used as a smoker?
While some pellet grills can get hot enough to grill and sear, most are best used as smokers. If you want the ability to sear, I’d recommend the Weber Smokefire or the Yoder option since they can both get up to 600 degrees. We wrote up a whole post on whether a pellet grill can replace your gas or charcoal grill. Check it out.
Do you need a smoker on a grill?
A smoker is a great way to level up your grilling. Smoking is a great way to impart flavor and preserve food. While you can smoke on any grill (read our guide to the best grills for all our favorites), a dedicated smoker is shaped to accommodate larger cuts of meat and impart maximum smoke flavor.
Should you buy a smoker cover or a grill?
Material quality: Most smokers have to live outside, and while a cover is a worthy investment, a grill is still going to have to withstand the elements. Flimsier metals and cheap wheels were immediately disqualified. Thicker steel and industrial-grade casters were positive points, especially for competitively priced smokers.