Question on Turkey Smoking...

[monstah]

Hi All,

First, I'd like to wish everyone at SMF, and your families, a very happy and prosperous Thanksgiving! I, for one, am so thankful to have found a group of people so warm and welcoming, and willing to share so much wonderful information to newbs such as myself. You are all now my second family! I will be raising my glass tomorrow and toasting all of you! I won't have internet access until Monday (don't worry, I'll have Q-view on Monday), so I thought I'd throw an early Holiday wish out to all of you. Cheers!

On to my question... I'll be smoking my bird tomorrow in my MES, at a temp of about 275 (or as close as I can get to that). Is it necessary to put water in the pan? I've heard both sides and can't decide if I should use water or not. I know that without water, I'm just grilling with smoke, but I'm torn!

Thanks in advance for your input!

 

[billybones]

Personally I use the water pan. I fill it with apple juice and coke and refill it two or three times as needed. It keeps the bird extra moist, smells awesome while its boiling, and gives the turkey a nice sticky glaze. I also spray the turkey with apple juice every two hours or so. That was the best turkey I have ever eaten. Good luck!

 

[flash]

I would tend to say you are just grilling. Maybe water pan for awhile, then remove it. If you trying to maintain higher temps or reach higher temps in smoker, try Playbox sand instead.

 

[smokehouse]

I think you will be fine without the water. I only use the water to help lower the temp since I do not have a temp adjustment. When its cold here like it is I don't need the water.

 

[deejaydebi]

Water pan can help prevent a grease fire and stablize temps