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The Innovative World of Griddle Smoking
For many BBQ enthusiasts, the words "griddle" and "smoke" might conjure up images that don’t quite fit together. After all, griddles are often associated more with flipping pancakes than smoking ribs. However, it appears that revolutionizing our cooking methods is part of the BBQ evolution. Steven Raichlen, a five-time James Beard Award-winner, unveils this exciting new technique in his latest exploration of barbecue culture: smoking on the griddle.
Why Griddles Deserve a Place in Your BBQ Arsenal
Griddles are versatile tools that can expand your culinary horizons far beyond what traditional grills can offer. From cooking delicate fish to whipping up breakfast favorites like pancakes and eggs, griddles enable you to prepare dishes that wouldn’t thrive over an open flame. As Raichlen's research suggests, adding outdoor griddles introduces a whole new level of creativity to your BBQ repertoire.
Two Techniques to Smoke Like a Pro
Raichlen outlines two distinct methods for achieving that beloved smoky flavor using a griddle.
Method #1: Charcoal Grill with Cast Iron Griddle
To get started, all you need is a charcoal grill and a portable cast iron griddle. Once you have your charcoal arranged, place the griddle on top, add wood chips to the hot coals, and allow the smoke to permeate your food, just like using a traditional smoker—only with the benefits of griddled crispiness. You’d be surprised at how well shrimp, chicken, and even pork tenderloins come out.
Method #2: Smoking Directly on the Griddle Surface
This method is just as straightforward. By using one hot and one medium zone on your griddle, you can smoke food directly on the surface. Mounding wood chips in the hot section allows you to achieve that wonderful smoky taste. This method is particularly great for making grilled chicken while getting that flavor infusion.
Comparing BBQ: Griddle vs. Grill
While traditionalists might argue that grilling is the best way to achieve smoky robust flavors, it’s essential to recognize the unique benefits griddles can offer. Griddles have no grates that trap heat, so food can benefit from even cooking and those delightful grill marks you crave without the potential for overcooking. Just imagine cooking A5 wagyu steak while infusing it with smoke—an experience that is difficult to replicate on a standard grill.
Looking Ahead: The Future of BBQ Techniques
As BBQ culture continues to evolve, techniques like griddle smoking may open the door to a whole new world of flavor combinations. The pursuit of culinary innovation drives creativity, and experimenting with different equipment like griddles only enhances the BBQ experience. Perhaps in the near future, we will see competitions and festivals dedicated to this griddled style, creating a new category of BBQ lovers.
Transform Your Outdoor Grilling Experience
For avid BBQ lovers, it’s time we embraced the multifaceted nature of outdoor cooking. By experimenting and sharing these techniques, a new BBQ community can flourish—a bridge between traditions and modern approaches to food preparation. So next time you’re ready to fire up the grill, take a moment to consider the possibilities a griddle has to offer.
Take Action: Elevate Your BBQ Skills Today!
With these innovative techniques at your disposal, it’s time to elevate your BBQ skills! Try smoking on your griddle this weekend and see how it changes your cooking game. Inspire your friends, family, and fellow BBQ aficionados by showcasing your new creations!
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