Should I Remove The Bark From Wood To Use In A Smoker

Have you ever wondered whether removing the bark from wood before putting it in your smoker is necessary? While there are a few benefits to leaving the bark on, such as maintaining moisture and providing flavor to slow-cooked meats, there are also some risks associated with using wood with bark still in place. In this post, we’ll explore how bark can affect the taste, texture, smell and flames produced by your grill. We’ll also compare the pros and cons for both natural and barkless timber so you can decide which option is best for you.

Should you remove bark from wood?

There is no definitive answer as to whether you should remove all the bark from wood before putting it in your bbq. Ultimately, this decision will come down to personal preference and how you intend to use the wood.

However, many pitmasters believe that even kiln-dried wood is better without the bark as it can potentially result in a bitter taste.

It’s also important to consider that bark may contain toxins or insects which could transfer onto your food if not removed beforehand.

Tree bark contains tannins which are there to deter insects from boring into the heart of the wood. If you burn wood with the bark still attached then these tannins will affect the flavor of the food on your grill.

The bark on wood is also likely to make the wood burn unevenly. This will produce temperature control issues making it more difficult for you to cook your food to optimum levels.

Bark can be removed from wood in different ways

The bark can be removed from wood in different ways, depending on the type and thickness of the bark. For thin bark, a sharp knife can usually do the trick. For thicker bark, something like an axe or hatchet may be more effective.

It is important to take the bark off carefully so as not to damage the wood or more importantly YOU!

You should also consider the type of smoker you plan to use when deciding whether or not to remove the bark from your wood. Some may require the bark to be removed in order for it to fit properly, while others are capable of handling larger pieces of wood with the bark still attached. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not the bark should be removed based on your smoker and your own personal taste preferences. 

Are There Any Benefits Of Using Bark On A BBQ?

Using bark-covered wood for smoking meat is likely to add a bitter taste to the flavor of the meat due to the tannins present in the bark. Grilling and smoking with chunks of wood that still have the bark attached may also affect your chances of maintaining temperature control. For both these reasons it’s best to remove bark from any wood you plan to use for cooking.

Bark removal – pros and cons

There are both pros and cons to removing the bark from wood for smoking wood chunks. On the positive side, removing the tree’s bark can reduce the smoke flavor of your food, as well as make it easier to fit larger pieces of wood into your grill. At the end of the day, the decision of whether or not to remove the bark is yours. Consider what type of flavor and texture you are looking for in your smoked food and make the decision that works best for you!

FAQs

What is the best way to remove bark from wood?

The best way to remove thick bark from wood is with a sharp knife or an axe/hatchet. Make sure that you are careful when removing the bark, as you don’t want to damage the wood itself.

Is it necessary to remove bark before smoking?

It is not always necessary to remove bark before smoking, but it may be beneficial depending on your smoker and what type of flavor and texture you are looking for in your smoked food. Consider what works best for you when making this decision!

Are there any benefits of using bark when smoking?

Apart from saving you the hassle and the time not really. Some grillmasters always like to take the bark off their firewood as they believe it can transfer a bitter taste when they barbecue.

What type of wood should I use when smoking?

The type of wood you use will largely depend on the flavor and texture you are looking for in your smoked food. Experiment with different types of wood to see which works best for your particular needs! Hickory works well with beef for example. Applewood is a good choice for fish. Cherry or maple are good choices for chicken.

Is it safe to burn bark in a smoker?

Yes, it is safe to burn bark mixed in a smoker as long as you take proper precautions such as monitoring the temperature and making sure that the smoke does not become too thick or smoky. Be sure to check your instructions for specific guidelines on how much thick bark can be safely burned at one time. You may end up with an unpleasant creosote taste on your food though!

Should I soak my wood before smoking?

Soaking your wood before smoking meat is not necessary, but it can help to reduce the amount of smoke produced and make the flavor more subtle. Be sure to check your instructions for specific guidelines on how long you should soak your hardwood before smoking.

Can I use green (unseasoned) wood when smoking?

It is possible to use green (unseasoned) wood when smoking food, but it will produce a lot of smoke and may impart an unpleasant flavor to your grilled food. It is best to use only dry, seasoned wood for optimal results.

What kind of smoker should I buy?

The type of smoker you buy will depend on your needs and budget. Consider what types of food you plan to smoke and how often you intend to use it before making a purchase. Look for models that have good temperature control, easy cleanup, ample space for loading wood, and high-quality construction. Doing some research beforehand can help ensure that you get the best grill for your particular needs!

Should I Remove The Bark From Wood To Use In A Smoker: Conclusion

The decision of whether or not to take the bark off your wood chunks for use in a smoker is ultimately yours. Consider what type of flavor and texture you are looking for in your smoked food and make the decision that works best for you! By asking yourself the right questions, doing some research, and experimenting with different types of dry wood, you can ensure that you get the most out of your barbecuing and the best food possible.