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Black Walnut? Is it any good?

Discussion in 'Woods for Smoking' started by flyfishjeep, Aug 26, 2010.

  1. Aug 26, 2010 #1
    flyfishjeep

    flyfishjeep Smoking Fanatic

    Knoxville,TN
    One of my co-workers has a black walnut tree that needs trimming.  Is this safe for smoking and has anyone used it before?

    Thanks!
     
  3. Aug 26, 2010 #2
    athabaskar

    athabaskar Smoking Fanatic

    Irving, Texas
    Never used it, but the tree does produce a nut so it should be ok to use. I would test it sparingly. Black Walnut has a lot of tannin and it might make a slightly bitter smoke.
     
  4. Aug 26, 2010 #3
    umrjake57

    umrjake57 Newbie

    O'Fallon, MO
    In the 5-Day ECourse that Jeff sends out, he suggests avoiding it, as it leaves a bitter taste.

    Jake
     
  5. Aug 26, 2010 #4
    flyfishjeep

    flyfishjeep Smoking Fanatic

    Knoxville,TN
    I hadn't heard of anyone using it either, and if it leaves a bitter taste, then I will just trim the branches and put them in the fireplace later on.

    Thanks everyone!
     
  6. Aug 26, 2010 #5
    mballi3011

    mballi3011 Epic Pitmaster OTBS Member SMF Premier Member

    Atlantic Beach, RatTown, FL
    [​IMG]

    Maybe to make a table out of but not for smoking I hear. Now it will make one pretty table too. I have a couple
     
  7. Aug 26, 2010 #6
    pops6927

    pops6927 Smoking Guru Staff Member Moderator Group Lead OTBS Member SMF Premier Member

    Fort Worth, Tx.
    I had a big old black walnut tree in my back yard at the first house we ever owned.  In the spring it was just like mowing a gatling gun, them black walnuts were firing everywhere!  
     
  8. Aug 26, 2010 #7
    smokingohiobutcher

    smokingohiobutcher Master of the Pit OTBS Member

    The North Coast of Ohio
    I just used some last week on some stufz burgers and then later in the week for some regular burgers.

    I'll have to say that I was sure it would have a bitter taste but it didnt! Mrs SOB said she really liked it!

    It had a strong smoke taste But not as strong as mesquite.  I only had them on the UDS for about an hour

    so if it was used for a long smoke it might be too strong. Try it!  I like it and will do it again!

    SOB
     
  9. Sep 14, 2010 #8
    walterwhite

    walterwhite Smoke Blower

    Chicago area
    I've used it numerous times and never noticed a bitter taste. It is definitely milder than hickory and mesquite.

    One of the main reasons I made my mini-WSM was to try different woods. I can smoke a couple chickens and some sausage in it and see what flavor different woods impart. The only conclusion I've come to is that everything that comes out of it tastes great!

    -walt