Author Topic: Another grilling/smoking question - WOOD (Read 196 times)

TweetyBird · « **on:** December 09, 2004, 08:40:59 PM »

I have a japonica tree in my backyard that I have to trim a lot. Some people might know it as a japanese plumb tree. It produces a small yellow sweet fruit. Can I use this wood for smoking meat? I think I've read somewhere that any edible fruit tree wood is ok for smoking, but I'm not sure. I don't want make anyone sick (or poison them) from using a wood thats not good for smoking meat.

Also, is there any problem in using green wood for smoke? I'm not using it for the heat, just the smoke.

Lizking · « **Reply #1 on:** December 09, 2004, 09:23:15 PM »

The test is easy. burn a peice and see how it smells. If I remember right, this is not a suitable wood 'cause it stinks when burned.

TweetyBird · « **Reply #2 on:** December 09, 2004, 09:25:22 PM »

Well cedar smells nice when burned but should never be used for smoking meat - heavy resin.

Lizking · « **Reply #3 on:** December 09, 2004, 09:36:26 PM »

That is test number 2. If it smells OK, burn a hotdog over it and test the taste.

TweetyBird · « **Reply #4 on:** December 09, 2004, 09:40:56 PM »

And so does test #3 have anything to do with severe abdominal pain?

Lizking · « **Reply #5 on:** December 09, 2004, 09:46:38 PM »

No it involves suckers, er, I mean friends.

TweetyBird · « **Reply #6 on:** December 09, 2004, 09:58:52 PM »

Soooo - Steve, care for a hot dog?

I'm 90% sure its ok but was curious to know for sure if its true that the wood from any edible fruit tree/bush is ok for smoking food.

Lizking · « **Reply #7 on:** December 09, 2004, 10:40:33 PM »

I am almost positive that Japonica is not a good wood for smoking food.

rpm · « **Reply #8 on:** December 09, 2004, 10:47:51 PM »

Almost any fruitwood will work. Hardwood like mesquite and oak would be the next choice. Softwood like cedar and pine do not.