I marinated my salmon steaks in Goya Mojo Criollo overnight. I filled the charcoal chimney half way and then lit it. Meanwhile, I had 20 coals in the firebox awaiting. I poured the red hot coals into the coals in the firebox. When the ashes were white, I added two small pieces of hickory logs.
The temp was at 225 approx. for a little while, but then it jumped to near 300. I tried to lower the heat by closing the vents, but that didn't help much. I was able to lower the heat by lifting the firebox lid causing the heat to drop somewhat. What is a better way to lower the heat?
I maintained the temp. for a few hours, adding wood occasionally and more charcoal once. Once the salmon was removed from pit, the temp dropped. Of course, I wasn't maintaining the fire actively. However, it did concern me that my temp dropped because what would I have done if I needed to maintain the temp. for a longer period of time? How do you guys get the temp. to remain 200-225 for five, six, or even 12 hours???
Don't get me wrong - I was pleased with the salmon, but wonder what will happen when I smoke a longer cooking meat.
PS: My daughter dug into the salmon before I had a chance to take a pic.
The temp was at 225 approx. for a little while, but then it jumped to near 300. I tried to lower the heat by closing the vents, but that didn't help much. I was able to lower the heat by lifting the firebox lid causing the heat to drop somewhat. What is a better way to lower the heat?
I maintained the temp. for a few hours, adding wood occasionally and more charcoal once. Once the salmon was removed from pit, the temp dropped. Of course, I wasn't maintaining the fire actively. However, it did concern me that my temp dropped because what would I have done if I needed to maintain the temp. for a longer period of time? How do you guys get the temp. to remain 200-225 for five, six, or even 12 hours???
Don't get me wrong - I was pleased with the salmon, but wonder what will happen when I smoke a longer cooking meat.
PS: My daughter dug into the salmon before I had a chance to take a pic.