smoking in wfo

[h12rpo]

So, as my oven build progresses, I'm starting to think forward to me using it............has anyone done any smoking in their wfo? And if so, what method did you use ?

[tonyb]

I think most wfo builders/owners have asked themselves the same question. I have a separate smoker so don't sue my wfo for smoking but here are my thoughts. (I'm assuming you mean hot smoking / proper bbq)

A cooling wfo can certainly produce the relatively low heat necessary for hot smoking (100-120C) the problem is producing the (fresh) smoke. Its generally considered that you need to reasonably consistently produce and extract the smoke, you can't just fill the wfo with smoke and then close it up, 'old' smoke is reported to give off flavours.

I think you have a couple of options, one is to have a small fire going which helps maintain the temperature of the oven onto which you regularly put semi-burnt smoking logs, alternatively you could use a small charcoal fire and smoke box or equivalent, another option would be to separate the smoking from the heating function by using something like this:

www.amazon.co.uk/ProQ%C2%AE-PQCSG-009-Cold-Smoke-Generator/dp/B005OHSKAQ/ref=tag_stp_s2_edpp_url

I have one of these and they work great for cold smoking. They probably would burn quicker at hot smoking temps. You could just use a pile of (known provenance) sawdust though you might have to use trial and error to position it near the fire such that it smokes but doesn't flame. You will neeed to keep the wfo door open but may be able to regulate the temp by partially opening and closing the door.

You'll not damage the wfo with any of the above, so when you are ready, give it a try and let us know how you get on.

[minesamojito]

As tonyb says the main issues will be temperature control and making sure the smoke keeps moving, I've found the best thing to hot smoke/BBQ is an oil drum cut in half langthways, with a stainless mesh to put the food on, and a pile of coals at one end, it's easy to control temp and smoke venting if you place a couple of vents in the barrell.
Cheers
Marcus

[rivergirl]

Have a separate hot and cold smoker.