The 4 Best Types Of Wood For Smoking BBQ Meat

Part of what gives BBQ meat its wonderful taste is the type of wood used in preparing it. Each type has its own unique properties that it passes on to the meat while smoking. There are many different kinds of woods used in barbecue, and the variety of flavors you’ll find are incredible. 

In fact, the only types of wood you shouldn’t use in smoking meat is cedar or any kind of softwood such as pine because of how resinous they are. While the various flavors and woods are part of the magic that is bar-b-que, there are four that are consistently thought of as the best types of wood for smoking BBQ in the sense that they can make the meat truly shine. 

Hickory

This is the “universal wood” used in BBQ and meat smoking. It’s the popular choice because it can deliver near perfect results and can be easily obtained. The flavor of hickory is described as savory, hearty, with almost a bacony tang to it.

Hickory flavor goes well with the following meats: 

• Larger cuts of ribs
• Pork shoulders
• Red Meat
• Poultry

Mesquite

Mesquite is the wood that is frequently used in preparing Texas-style BBQ. It is known for its unique flavor, which is strong and intense. Because of the wallop packed by mesquite, it requires an experienced hand. If you’ve just begun your journey into the world of barbcued meats, wait until you feel confident enough in your results before you tackle smoking meat with mesquite. 

Mesquite wood goes well with the following meats:

• Red Meat
• As added flavor while grilling. 

Apple

Meat that has been smoked with apple wood has a mild flavor that is sweet and somewhat fruity. Because of this mild flavor, meat that is grilled with apple wood can take some time to attain full flavor. Meat that has been prepared with this wood variety is truly “slow and low” style BBQ. 

Apple wood goes well with the following meats:

• Pork (namely, pork butt)
• Ribs
• Chicken
• Wild fowl 

Oak

Oak is a versatile wood to use with barbecue. With a medium-to-strong flavor that has a complementary palette, it falls between apple and hickory on the flavor scale and can be used with just about any type of meat. Additionally, it can be added with other types of wood as a flavor enhancement. 

Oak wood goes well with the following meats: 

• Lamb
• Beef
• Brisket
• Sausages 

Taste The Texas-Sized Flavor Of Dyer’s BBQ!

Dyer’s Bar-B-Que offers casual family dining along with incredible Catering services in Amarillo. Contact Us if you have questions. Take a look at our Menu options, learn more about our Big Bear Saloon, or see what’s in our Store! Dyer’s BBQ is located at 1619 S. Kentucky E #526 I-40 and Georgia at the Wellington Square Shopping Center in Amarillo.