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Smokin-it has great reviews, has 3 different sizes. I currently have the MES 30 and if it ever craps out I think I will get the mid sized Smokin-it next. Do a search on amazon and you can see reviews but to purchase go directly to their website it is cheaper.
I too have used the pork butt and ground beef, both work good but they make a totally different end product. Don't go less than 30% and dont get the good ground beef, stick to the cheap stuff. The closer you get to 50% mix the more tame the taste, try mixing a small batch and do a fry test to...
I have an older MES 30 and I can say that the built in temp sensor is not accurate. I think most recommend an external and seperate thermometer setup. Learn where your digital setting needs to be to reach the temp you want. You can double check your portable thermometer by using iced water and...
I have done both the spiral sliced and not pre-sliced hams. I found that the spiral sliced can dry out on you if you happen to leave it on a little longer, so just watch it a little closer than you would a ham that is not sliced.
Looking at your pictures I don't think you are at the right place yet. I made this repair and I had to drill out all of those rivets in the back of the unit then go through a small cover to get to the terminals. Go to this thread and scroll down you will see how to repair it...
I have an older MES and it has been a pure joy to use. Although I have had the problems that was customary for those units it was easily repaired if you are handy at all. The information was found on here, thanks to those that posted it. I can recommend the MES and a friend of mine has the...
I use wood chunks instead of the chips and I don't soak them. They last longer than the chips. If you have a chunk that is to big hit it with an axe or sharp hatchet.