UDS Heat Source

GoodtiminSmoker said:

 
I just built a Big Poppa Smoker UDS and I'm Looking for some advise on how you all make your heat source. I Fill the basket with charcoal like kingsford and put some wood chunks (4 - 5 large chunks)  on top, 1/4 chimney of ashed over charcoal put in the middle. Any other ideas or techniques?? I don't think I'm getting the optimal smoking from this method. Any ideas???????????

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That is what I do with my WSM! It's called the Minion method and works well for me.  I keep the top vent wide open and adjust the bottom vents for temp control.

Mike

i usually embed the wood a little into the charcoal so that the wood doesnt all burn up with the first dump of coals and then leave nothing for the rest of the cook.  about 1 fist sized chunk of wood for every 2-3 hours of cook time is what I like go with,  but level of smoke is an individual preference and it is still an inexact science as you really cant control where the fire burns in that basket.  Sometimes it burns down one side,  the next time it will go right down the middle.