H2O or NO

[cigar smoker]

just starting out with my MES. when should i use water in the pan?

 

[ronp]

Always. It helps stabilize the temps.

Good luck!

 

[fire it up]

Welcome to the site Cigar.
It would be wise to listen to Ron, the man knows his smokes.
When you get a chance stop on over in Roll Call and introduce yourself so we can all give you a warm welcome.

 

[cigar smoker]

thanks ron. i have a 6lb. pork butt smoking now. my temp is set to 250. i expect it to take 12 hours. i smothered it in mustard and apllied rub. placed it on lowest rack. water pan is full. vent is wide open. just inserted first load of hickory chips. digital thermometer alarm is set to 200. what am i forgetting or doing wrong?

 

[ronp]

It sounds like you are doing fine there.

I put mine on the top rack with a drip pan below with some beef aujus and thinly sliced onions, garlic if you like, to catch the liquid gold. Assuming you are pulling it I take mine to 165' 175' and put in drip pan with foil to about 195' 200'. When pulling, pour that juice into a container and into the freezer. When the fat comes to the top, skim and add juices to the meat.

How ever you do it good luck and it sounds like your on the right track for some fine eating.

Don't forget some pics.

 

[lennyluminum]

That is a great idea Ron I never thought of doing it that way. I'm gonna pull the butt out of the freezer now!!

 

[chefrob]

welcome, just noticed your handle.......what sticks are in your rotation?
ron pretty much has it down for you......some great guys 'round these parts!

 

[cigar smoker]

just turned my butt over. looks good. thought i would have to add water to the pan but it still had plenty. dumped another load of chips in. now i have a big decision to make, what cigar to enjoy. i am fond of nicaraguan maduros. a perdomo habano maduro torpedo is one of my favorites. see you in an hour.

 

[pepeskitty]

Another cigar smoker, I like that. Glad to have you join us here. You will find an answer to about any question from the knowledgable folks here.

Welcome