UDS pan or no pan for drippings

[William89]

Well I've finished my first UDS build. Going to give to a test run tomorrow with just charcoal. But one question has been bugging me. Do I need a pan below the meat to catch drippings. Or do people just let it fall where it wants, hit the coals etc. I fear that could be an issue. If any of you could lend some insight, it would be helpful

 

[forktender]

No Pan, the drippings hitting the coals is what gives USD smoked food it's awesome flavor.

 

[SmokinAl]

I agree with the above!
Al

 

[hardcookin]

I never used a pan. It kind of blocked the heat and I used more fuel.
Congrats on your UDS. They put out some good chicken.

 

[Bummed]

I don't use one either, let it fall into the coals and enjoy the best smoked bbq you ever had!

 

[forktender]

The only time I use a drip pan in my UDS is when I'm saving the drippings for basting or gravy and then it's the smallest pan I can use for what's cooking.

 

[mattkm]

Another vote for no pan here!

 

[1215]

Interesting so many 'no pan' votes. I'd think you would at least want a diffuser plate right?

 

[Ricardo Galindo]

I was thinking a diffuser plate

 

[William89]

Since this post I have added a diffuser due to the temp in the center being much higher than temp towards the outside.

 

[Ricardo Galindo]

Have you noticed a difference in heat? Or flavors?

 

[William89]

The diffuser definitely made my uds heat more even.