With the popularity of outdoor cooking, many people are looking for ways to make their foods taste even better. One way to do this is by using an electric smoker. Electric smokers provide a great way to cook meats and other foods while infusing them with a smoky flavor.
If you’re new to smoking or just want to try something different, here is a guide on how to use an electric smoker.
You can also check our articles on How Long to Smoke Ribs in Electric Smoker, How to Cook Ribs on Electric Smoker, How to Make Smoked Pork Chops Electric Smoker, How to Make Jerky on Electric Smoker, Masterbuilt Electric Smoker Recipes, and How to Make Electric Smoker Beef Brisket.
How to Cook with Electric Smoker?
We give below step-by-step instructions on how to cook with an electric smoker.
Step 1: Choose an Electric Smoker
The first step is to choose an electric smoker that suits your needs. There are many different types and sizes of electric smokers on the market, so take your time to find one that fits your cooking style.
Step 2: Read the Manual!
This seems like an obvious step, but it’s often overlooked. Make sure to read the manual that comes with your smoker. This will ensure that you understand how to properly operate the smoker and avoid any potential accidents.
Step 3: Season your Electric Smoker
Once you’ve chosen your smoker and read the manual, it’s time to season your smoker.
What is Seasoning?
Seasoning is a process of heating up your smoker to burn off any manufacturing oils that may be present. This will also help to cure the paint so it doesn’t peel over time.
Why Season your Electric Smoker?
Seasoning is important because it will help to create a non-stick surface on the interior of your smoker. This is critical since it will prevent your food from sticking to the smoker and making a mess.
Step 4: Preparing the Smoker
After your smoker is seasoned, it’s time to prepare it for cooking.
Turn On your Smoker
The first step is to turn on your smoker. Most electric smokers have a switch on the front or side that you’ll need to flip to the “on” position.
Get your Wood Chips in the Chip Tray
The next step is to add wood chips to the chip tray. This is what will give your food its smoky flavor.
Make Sure you Preheat your Smoker
Once you’ve added your wood chips, it’s important to preheat your smoker. This will help to ensure that the food cooks evenly.
Most electric smokers have a preheat setting that you can use. Simply turn the knob to the preheat setting and wait for the smoker to reach the desired temperature.
Step 5: Preparing the Meat
Now that your smoker is preheated and prepared, it’s time to prepare the meat.
Start by Trimming the Fat
One important step in preparing the meat is to trim off any excess fat. This will help to prevent the fat from rendering and making a mess in the smoker.
Dry Rub or Marinade?
The next step is to decide whether you want to use a dry rub or marinade on your meat. This is a personal preference, so feel free to experiment with different combinations.
Apply the Rub or Marinade
Once you’ve decided on a rub or marinade, it’s time to apply it to the meat. Make sure to evenly coat the meat so that it doesn’t dry out during cooking.
Step 6: Smoking the Meat
Now that the meat is prepared, it’s time to start smoking it.
Place the Meat in the Smoker
The first step is to place the meat in the smoker. Make sure to evenly space out the pieces of meat so that they cook evenly.
Which Rack to Use?
The next step is to decide which rack to use. If you’re smoking a large piece of meat, you’ll want to use the bottom rack. If you’re smoking smaller pieces of meat, you can use the top rack.
Get the Water into the Smoker
The next step is to add water to the smoker. This will help to keep the meat moist during cooking.
Securing the Smoker Door
Once the meat and water are in the smoker, it’s important to make sure that the door is securely closed. This will help to prevent any heat from escaping and ensure that the meat cooks evenly.
Step 7: Monitoring the Smoker
Now that the smoker is running, it’s important to monitor it closely.
Check the Temperature of the Meat
One of the most important things to do is to check the temperature of the meat. This can be done with a meat thermometer.
Make Sure the Smoke is Coming Out
Another important thing to do is to make sure that the smoke is coming out of the smoker. This will help to ensure that the meat is getting properly smoked.
How Long Should you Smoke For?
The length of time that you smoke the meat will depend on the type and cut of the meat.
Check the Chips and Water Levels
As the meat is smoking, you’ll also want to check the chips and water levels. If the chips start to run out, you can add more. And if the water starts to evaporate, you can add more as well.
Step 8: Resting the Meat
Once the meat is cooked, it’s important to let it rest. This will help to ensure that the juices are evenly distributed.
Step 9: Clean an Electric Smoker After Use
Once you’re finished smoking the meat, it’s important to clean the smoker. This will help to prevent any food from drying out and becoming difficult to clean. Cleaning an electric smoker is fairly simple.
Unplug and Cool the Smoker
The first step is to unplug the smoker and let it cool. This will help to prevent any burns.
Take Out the Accessories
The next step is to take out all of the accessories. This includes the racks, water pan, and wood chips. Wash the accessories in warm soapy water. Once the accessories are clean, you can put them back into the smoker.
Get Rid of Any Debris
The next step is to get rid of any debris that’s in the smoker. This includes any ash or food that’s left behind.
Scrub the Inside
The next step is to scrub the inside of the smoker. This can be done with a brush or sponge.
Wipe Out the Inside
Once you’ve scrubbed the inside of the smoker, it’s time to wipe it out. This can be done with a paper towel or cloth.
Pat the Smoker Dry
Once you’ve wiped out the inside of the smoker, it’s important to pat it dry. This will help to prevent any rust from forming.
How Often do you Clean your Smoker?
You should clean your smoker after every use. However, if you don’t use it often, you can clean it once a month.
How to Use my Masterbuilt Electric Smoker?
If you just want to learn how to use your Masterbuilt electric smoker, this guide is for you. This guide will teach you how to use and clean your smoker.
Step #1 – Seasoning your New Electric Smoker – And First Use
The first step is to season your new electric smoker. To do this, you’ll need to coat the inside of the smoker with cooking oil. Just be sure to use a light coat.
After you’ve coated the inside of the smoker, you’ll need to turn it on and let it run for 2 hours. This will help to burn off any manufacturing oils that may be on the smoker. Then, you can turn off the smoker and let it cool.
Now, it’s time to use your smoker.
Step #2 – Preparing your Meat for Smoking
Now that your smoker is seasoned, it’s time to prepare your meat for smoking. The first thing you’ll need to do is choose the type of meat you want to smoke. The most popular choices are chicken, pork, and beef.
Once you’ve decided on the type of meat, you’ll need to choose the cut. The most popular cuts are pork shoulder, ribs, and chicken breasts.
After you’ve chosen the meat and cut, it’s time to prepare it. This includes trimming any excess fat and adding a rub or marinade.
Step #3 – Turning on your Electric Smoker – Preheating
Now that your meat is prepared, it’s time to turn on your smoker. The first thing you’ll need to do is preheat the smoker. Most smokers have a preheat setting.
If your smoker doesn’t have a preheat setting, you’ll need to set the temperature to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step #4 – Set the Temperature to 225 Degrees F
Now that the smoker is preheated, it’s time to set the temperature. As we mentioned earlier, you’ll need to set the temperature to 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step #5 – Add More Wood Chips and Water to the Water Pan
Now that the temperature is set, it’s time to add wood chips and water to the water pan. The amount of wood chips and water you’ll need to add will depend on the type of meat you’re smoking.
For example, if you’re smoking chicken, you’ll need to add 1 cup of wood chips and 1 cup of water to the pan.
After you’ve added the wood chips and water, it’s time to put the meat in the smoker.
Step #6 – Add your Meat to the Smoker
Now that the smoker is preheated and the wood chips and water have been added, it’s time to add your meat.
The first thing you’ll need to do is place the racks in the smoker.
Then, you can add your meat to the racks.
Be sure to leave some space between each piece of meat. This will allow the smoke to circulate properly.
Step #7 – How to Baste your Meat Before Smoking
Now that your meat is in the smoker, it’s time to baste it. This is a process where you’ll need to brush or spray the meat with a liquid.
The most popular liquids to use for basting are apple juice, cider vinegar, and beer.
Step #8 – Adding More Chips During Smoking
After you’ve basted your meat, you’ll need to add more wood chips to the smoker if needed. You’ll need to add more wood chips every 30 minutes or so.
Step #9 – Apply a Finishing Sauce
Once your meat has been smoking for the recommended time, it’s time to apply a finishing sauce. This is a sauce that you’ll brush on the meat during the last few minutes of smoking.
The most popular finishing sauces are barbecue sauce, honey, and molasses.
Step #10 – Remove Smoked Meat from the Smoker and Devour with Vigor
Now that your meat has been smoked, it’s time to remove it from the smoker.
Be sure to let the meat rest for a few minutes before cutting into it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. You can serve the smoked meat with your favorite sides.
Step #11 – Turn Off Smoker and Allow to Cool
Once you’re done smoking your meat, it’s time to turn off the smoker and allow it to cool.
Step #12 – Smoker Clean Up Time….It’s Gotta Be Done!
Now it’s time to clean up the smoker. This is an important step in the process because you’ll need to clean the smoker before you can use it again.
The most important thing to do when cleaning your smoker is to empty the water pan and wood chip tray.
You’ll also need to scrub the racks with soap and water.
Once you’re finished cleaning the smoker, you can store it until you’re ready to use it again.
Accessories you Can Use with a Masterbuilt Electric Smoker
Here are some great accessories that will make your smoking experience even better:
1. A wireless remote control lets you manage the temperature and smoke output from anywhere in the vicinity.
2. A digital food thermometer ensures that your food is cooked to perfection every time.
3. The sausage hanger kit is perfect for smoking sausage, jerky, and other small cuts of meat.
4. The fish basket is perfect for smoking fish, shrimp, and other seafood.
5. The drip pan catches drips and juices, making cleanup a breeze.
6. The wood chip tray is used to hold wood chips for smoking. It can also be used as a serving tray when removed from the smoker.
7. The grease tray catches drips and grease runoff, making it easy to keep your smoker clean.
8. The cover protects your smoker from weather damage when not in use.
Masterbuilt Electric Smoker Tips
The following tips will help you use your smoker like a pro:
1. Place your food on the lower racks. The lower racks in an electric smoker are closest to the heat source, so they’ll cook your food faster. If you’re smoking multiple items at once, place the items that need to be cooked for the longest time on the lower racks, and move them to the upper racks when they’re nearly finished cooking.
2. Keep an eye on the temperature. One of the benefits of smoking with an electric smoker is that you can set it to cook at a consistent temperature. However, it’s still important to keep an eye on the temperature gauge, as temperature fluctuations can occur. If you notice that the temperature is rising or falling too rapidly, make adjustments as needed to maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
3. Allow your smoked food to rest before serving. Just like with any other type of cooked food, it’s important to allow smoked food to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicier, more flavorful smoked dishes.
Masterbuilt Smoker Safety Tips
When it comes time to smoke meats and vegetables, safety should always be a top priority. Fortunately, following a few simple safety tips can help make the process enjoyable and stress-free. Here are five smoker safety tips to keep in mind:
1. Read the instructions carefully before using your smoker for the first time. This will help you understand how to operate the device properly and safely.
2. Inspect the smoker before each use to make sure there are no cracks or damage that could cause a fire or other hazards.
3. Keep your smoker clean and free of debris. A build-up of grease and grime can increase the risk of a fire.
4. Never leave your smoker unattended while it is in use. If you need to step away, turn off the power and wait for it to cool down completely before returning.
5. When you’re finished using the smoker, unplug it from the power source and allow it to cool down completely before storing.
How Much Wood Chips for Electric Smoker?
The amount of wood chips you’ll need will depend on the type of smoker you have and the type of meat you’re smoking. If you’re smoking light meat, such as chicken, you’ll only need a few handfuls of chips. If you’re smoking heavier meat, such as beef, you’ll need a few pounds of chips.
How Often to Add Wood Chips to an Electric Smoker?
You’ll need to add wood chips to the smoker every 30-60 minutes. This will help to ensure that the meat gets properly smoked.
Should you Soak Wood Chips for Electric Smokers?
Yes, you should soak the wood chips for electric smokers. This will help to prevent them from burning out.
How Long do Wood Chips Last in an Electric Smoker?
Generally, 1 cup of wood chips should last 4-5 hours. However, this will depend on the type of smoker you have.
3 Ways to Use Wood Chips in an Electric Smoker
Here are three ways to use wood chips in an electric smoker.
Wood Chip Tray Method
One way to use wood chips in an electric smoker is to place them in the tray that’s included with the smoker. This will help to prevent the chips from burning out.
Foil Pouch Method
Another way to use wood chips in an electric smoker is to place them in a foil pouch. This will help to ensure that the chips stay lit.
Smoker Box Method
Yet another way to use wood chips in an electric smoker is to place them in a smoker box. This will help to prevent the chips from burning out.
8 Tips for Using Wood Chips in your Electric Smoker
Here are five tips for using wood chips in your electric smoker.
1. Soak the wood chips in water for 30 minutes before smoking. This will help to prevent them from burning too quickly.
2. Avoid using wet or green wood chips, as these can create too much smoke and make your meat bitter.
3. Add the chips a few at a time, and don’t overload the smoker. You want there to be plenty of airflow so that the chips can smolder without catching fire.
4. Use a variety of woods to get different flavors. Oak, hickory, and mesquite are all popular choices for smokers, but you can experiment with other kinds of wood as well.
5. Keep an eye on the smoke color. If it starts to get too dark, it means that the wood is probably starting to burn instead of smoldering. Add more air if necessary, or remove some of the wood chips if needed.
6. When you’re done smoking, let the wood chips cool completely before removing them from the smoker. Otherwise, they may continue to smolder and produce undesirably dark smoke flavoring on your next batch of food.
7. Store the wood chips in a dry, airtight container when you’re not using them. This will help to prevent them from drying out and losing their flavor.
8. Wood chips can be reused, but they’ll eventually lose their flavor. After a few uses, they may need to be replaced.
Tips for Using an Electric Smoker to Cook Meat
Here are some great tips to help you get the most out of your electric smoker:
1. Choose the right type of meat. Not all meat is suitable for smoking, so it’s important to choose wisely. Beef, pork, and lamb are all good choices, as they have a lot of fat that will help to keep them moist during the cooking process. Chicken and fish can also be smoked, but they tend to dry out more easily, so you’ll need to be careful not to overcook them.
2. Season the meat generously. Smoked meat is all about flavor, so don’t be afraid to season it generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Rub the seasoning into the meat well before you start smoking it.
3. Set the smoker to the correct temperature. Electric smokers typically operate at a lower temperature than other types of smokers, so it’s important to adjust your setting accordingly. Most meats should be cooked at around 225 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Cook for the appropriate amount of time. Cooking times will vary depending on the type and thickness of meat you’re smoking, but a general rule of thumb is to cook for 1-2 hours per pound of meat. Keep in mind that chicken and fish will require less time than beef or pork.
5. Let the meat rest before serving. Once the meat is cooked through, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing or serving. This will give the juices a chance to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more flavorful and tender.
How to Use Electric Smoker FAQs
Is Masterbuilt a Good Brand?
Masterbuilt is a popular brand of electric smokers, and many people swear by their products. However, like with any brand, there are some pros and cons to consider.
Some people find that Masterbuilt smokers are easy to use and produce great results, while others have had issues with quality control and customer service. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not a Masterbuilt smoker is right for you.
Do I Leave the Masterbuilt Smoker Vent Open or Closed?
It’s generally best to leave the vent open when smoking with an electric smoker. This will allow excess smoke to escape, which can help to prevent your food from becoming too smoky. You can experiment with closing the vent partially to see if it has any effect on the flavor of your smoked meats.
Why is my Masterbuilt smoker not heating?
There are a few possible reasons why your Masterbuilt smoker might not be heating properly. First, make sure that it’s plugged in and that the power switch is turned on.
Then, check the temperature setting to make sure it’s set correctly. If the smoker still isn’t heating, you may need to contact customer service for further assistance.
My Masterbuilt electric smoker is not smoking?
There are a few possible reasons for this. First, make sure that you’re using the correct type of wood chips. Masterbuilt recommends using hickory, mesquite, or apple wood chips for best results.
If you’re using the correct type of wood chips and they’re still not smoking, try soaking them in water for 30 minutes before using them. You can also try adding more wood chips to the smoker. If the problem persists, please reach out to customer service for help.
How much wood chips for Masterbuilt electric smoker?
It’s recommended to use about 1 cup of wood chips for every hour of smoking time. So, if you’re smoking for 4 hours, you’ll need 4 cups of wood chips. However, this is just a general guideline. You may need to use more or less wood chips depending on the type of wood you’re using, the size of your smoker, and how smoky you want your food to be.
What makes an electric smoker smoke?
An electric smoker uses wood chips to create smoke. When the wood chips are heated, they release smoke that flavors the food as it cooks.
Is Thick White Smoke a Good Sign?
Not necessarily. Thick white smoke can be a sign that the wood chips are burning too hot, which can make your food taste bitter or charred.
How do I make a disposable drip tray?
You can make a disposable drip tray by lining a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Place the baking sheet underneath the smoker to catch any drips or spills. When you’re finished smoking, simply remove the foil and dispose of it.
What is the best thing to cook in an electric smoker?
Almost anything! Electric smokers are great for cooking meats, seafood, vegetables, and even desserts.
What meat works best in an electric smoker?
Beef, pork, and chicken are all great choices for smoking in an electric smoker.
Can you use aluminum foil in an electric smoker?
Yes, you can use aluminum foil in an electric smoker. Many people find that wrapping meats in foil help to keep them moist and tender. Just be sure not to wrap the meat too tightly, as this can cause it to steam instead of smoke.
Conclusion
Electric smokers are a great way to add flavor to your food without overdoing it on the smoke. If you’re new to smoking, start with a small electric smoker like the Masterbuilt 30-inch. Once you get the hang of it, you can experiment with different wood chips, temperatures, and cooking times to find what you like best.
We hope this guide was helpful in teaching you how to use an electric smoker. In case you have any difficulty in operating it, go through the user manual that comes along with the smoker or contact customer service for assistance.
Always practice safety while handling electric smokers. And don’t forget to have fun! Smoking food is a great way to add flavor and excitement to your cooking.