Various Wood Chip Options for Smoking Meat

Posted on January 25, 2018 by RackzBBQ

When it comes to smoking meat, great results start with the type of wood you choose for your smoker. The hot temperatures and quick burning attributes produce a momentous burst of smoke that gives meat a distinct flavor unparalleled to meat cooked any other way.

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There are several different wood chip options available on the market, all of which deliver unique and individual flavors that can be used alone, or combined to create new tastes. If you are preparing to smoke pork, beef, poultry, nuts, cheese, or fish, you might want to review which wood chip options will give you the type of flavor you are aiming for. Continue reading to learn which options you have to choose from, and how they differ in flavor profiles, composition, burning points, and more.

The Classics:

Hickory – Hickory wood chips are popular because they deliver strong, sweet, bacon-like flavors that are capable of pleasing any palate. Although many claim that hickory wood is too pungent, the aromas produce a strong flavor that is suitable for all cuts of meat.

Maple – In contrast to hickory, maple wood chips deliver a more subtle flavor that can be described as mildly sweet. It is a great “go-to” option for any type of poultry, including chicken, quail, turkey, and small birds. It is also a good choice for grilling cheese and vegetables.

Mesquite – If you are looking for a strong, unpretentious, earthy flavor, mesquite is the classic option to choose. It has one of the hottest burning points among all other wood chips, and works well with any type of red or dark meats, including beef, bison, lamb, and more.

Oak – As a classic wood chip option, using oak can is a full-proof choice because it can be used for any type of meat. It gives off a medium smoky flavor that is slightly lighter than hickory or mesquite. It is commonly blended with other woods, such as cherry, hickory, or apple, but works great by itself too.

Fruit Flavors:

Apple – If you are looking for a fruity flavor that isn’t too strong, apple is the way to go. It delivers subtle sweet apple flavors, and works well with most meats, especially ham. It is a suitable choice for some seafood as well.

Pear – If you smoking poultry and small birds and would like a unique flavor, choose pear wood. You can expect a light, sweet, and fruity flavor.

Cherry – Cherry wood is one of the most popular choices for smoking meats because it can be used for everything. It gives a mild, sweet fruity flavor, and works well with poultry, beef, pork, small game, and more.

Peach – Peach wood delivers a very similar result as pear and other fruit wood chips. It’s a great option for small birds, poultry, and pork.

Mulberry – Mulberry wood chips are a terrific match for pork, poultry, and fish. Because it is very similar to apple wood, it is commonly skipped over as an option. But it is an interesting flavor that is great for white meat and fresh water fish.

Grape Vine – Grape vine wood chips are great for those who want a strong fruit flavor in their product. Even when used sparingly, they will provide a robust, tart fruity flavor that works well with poultry, lamb, pork, and small game birds.

Olive – Olive wood produces results that are very similar to mesquite wood chips. It is slighter lighter in flavor, and works best with chicken.

Nut and Flower Varieties:

Pecan – Pecan is actually another classic. As a fruit nut variety wood chip, you can expect stout fruity flavors in any of your smoked meats. Compared to hickory and mesquite, its flavors are milder.

Walnut – Walnut wood is great for red meats and wilderness game. It delivers a strong and slightly bitter flavor, so it is often combined with other varieties to soften the flavor.

Alder – Alder is a very delicate wood variety that produces soft, mild sweetness in smoked meat. Although most commonly used for salmon, it is also a great option for other kinds of fish, as well as poultry and pork.

Rackz BBQ in Carmel

Rackz BBQ
317-688-7290

If you are craving delicious barbecue smoked meats and homemade side dishes, come to Rackz BBQ in Carmel for authentic flavors and great prices! We offer a wide selection of barbecue classics, house-made sides, and tasty desserts, all prepared using the freshest local ingredients. We also offer call ahead take out ordering and catering! Call 317-688-7290 to learn more about our current menu selections and specials, anytime.

Recommended Tools for Smoking Meats

Posted on January 17, 2018 by RackzBBQ

Accurate temperature monitoring and heat absorption are two critical aspects of producing high quality smoked meats. In order to be successful at either, it is important to have the proper smoking tools and provisions. Professional pitmasters and smoked meat enthusiasts rely on such tools to continually achieve great results, and they highly recommend them for beginners as well.

Continue below to learn about some fundamental tools for smoking meats, and start planning your next smoked masterpiece!

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317-688-7290!

Meat Temperature Basics

Before getting started on enhancing your skills at smoking meats, it is important to understand more about meat temperatures. Not only is it necessary to keep a steady temperature within your smoker, it is equally important to control heat absorption. Smoking on too low of a temperature can put your meat at risk of producing unhealthy bacteria, especially in larger cuts.

Smoking on too high of a temperature can jeopardize everything from moisture to flavor. These temperature mistakes will reduce the quality of meat. Some people use water pans in their smokers to add moisture and control heat absorption. Some even use sand in their pans for added heat absorption. These tricks can greatly reduce severe heat fluctuation within a smoker chamber.

Aside from water pans, thermometers, wireless dual probe transmitters, injectors, and more are all important components to producing great smoked meats. Here are some examples of recommended items to buy for smoking meats at home:

Flavor Injector

Flavor is the ultimate goal in smoking meats; is it not? So a quality flavor injector is a must-have item. Although you can successfully season meat and produce wonderful flavors, however, every pitmaster will tell you that flavor injecting is the better method. You will find many types, from syringe injectors to commercial pumps, but all you need is a simple version that has finger holes to fill and inject with one hand.

Try the Grill Beast® 304 Stainless Steel Meat Injector Kit – $24.99

Wireless Dual Heat Probe

These are aftermarket thermometers come with two transmitters that record the meat and chamber temperature and then send the data to a remote display you can keep up to 300 feet away, either on your person or set up in your home. This makes temperature monitoring much easier, especially when it’s chilly outside or you have company to entertain.

Try the ThermoPro® TP20 Wireless Remote Digital Cooking Food Meat Thermometer with Dual Probe – $59

Commercial Grade Quick-Read Thermometer

Commercial grade digital quick read thermometers are a terrific tool to use if you want to protect yourself from undercooked or overcooked meat. Consuming undercooked meat like pork and poultry is dangerous, while consuming overcooked meat is simply unpleasant. This tool allows you quickly read your meat temperatures without hovering over the heat for too long. Many models are water, dust, and shock resistant.

Try the Maverick® Pro-Temp Commercial Thermometer PT-100 – $59.99

Charcoal Chimney

If you plan in burning charcoal for smoking meats, you may benefit from a charcoal chimney. They are basically a cylinder with venting holes, which allows it to ignite and achieve temperature quickly. These are very helpful for beginners because you only need a little dry paper and a match to get your charcoal lit and started. It is also easier to add charcoal and maintain steady temperatures.

Try the Weber® 7416 Rapidfire Chimney Starter – $19.99

Misting Spray Bottle

Misting bottles are must-have tool. They are great for covering a lot of surface area on your smoked meats, allowing for quick and easy application. The great thing about these tools is that they are the cheapest and easier item to buy. You can even head to your local dollar store and find some that work perfect for smoking meats. In fact, you should buy several at this price point so that you always have clean extras on hand.

Try Our Delicious Smoked Meats and More!

Rackz BBQ
317-688-7290

If you are craving delicious barbecue smoked meats and homemade side dishes, come to Rackz BBQ in Carmel for authentic flavors and great prices! We offer a wide selection of barbecue classics, house-made sides, and tasty desserts, all prepared using the freshest local ingredients. We also offer call ahead and take out ordering and catering! Call 317-688-7290 to learn more about our current menu selections and specials, anytime.

The 3 Steps to Choosing a Smoker

Posted on January 11, 2018 by RackzBBQ

If you like to grill meat, a smoker is the perfect addition to your stockpile of appliances. But shopping for one will require some forethought and a little bit of smoker knowledge.

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There are hundreds of smokers to choose from on the market, from stovetop and handheld smokers, to the colossal rigs used for commercial purposes. Such styles include offset barrel smokers (stick burners), gas smokers, electric smokers, pellet smokers, water smokers, cold smokers, kamado-style cookers, combo-ovens, and more, all of which vary in price, quality, features, and performance. In order to bring home the right smoking equipment, you must start by doing your research and narrowing down your options. Fortunately, you can do this with 3 simple steps.

❶ Determine Your Capacity

The first factor to think about is volume. How much meat do you intend to smoke at one time? Are you using it for personal or commercial applications? Restaurants and large facilities will require a bigger smoker than someone who simply wants to smoke meats at home. In another example, a person who will be smoking meats for a family of four will need a larger personal smoker than someone who is cooking for one.

❷ Consider Your Space

Since smokers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, you want to think about where it will go and how much space you have. Do you have room for a vertical smoker in your kitchen? The garage? Will it be stored on the patio or in a backyard shed? Designate an area before making any final decisions so that you have the room to conveniently store it away. Furthermore, it is important to learn the proper way to store a smoker. Freezing temperatures and heavy precipitation can interrupt performance and overall quality.

❸ Set a Budget

It is very important to set a budget before shopping around for smokers. Not only will this help narrow down realistic options, it will provide a boundary for spending and help resist pressure to buy an upgraded version you do not need. Smokers range in price from as low as $50 for condo or apartment units, and as high as $10,000 or more for professional grade. It is recommended for beginners to start with a small vertical water smoker that costs between $100 and $300, but this is entirely up to the consumer.

Beginner Brands To Consider:

As a beginner smoker, there are several popular and highly-reviewed make and models that will serve you well. Here are a few to consider:

↣ Weber 22-Inch Original Kettle Charcoal Grill – $149
↣ Pit Barrel Cooker Package – $299
↣ Camp Chef 24-Inch Smoke Vault – $250

In the Mood for Delicious Smoked Meats Right Now?

Rackz BBQ
317-688-7290

Come to Rackz BBQ! We are conveniently in Carmel, you can stop by anytime for lunch or dinner. Enjoy our made-from-scratch menu filled with traditional barbecue classics, like ribs, brisket, chicken, mac-n-cheese, corn bread, and more! If you don’t have time to sit down at our restaurant, place a takeout order for a hot and fresh meal on the go! Contact us at 317-688-7290 to place a call ahead order, or to learn more about our menu selections, prices, and specials.

Smoked Meats: Hot Smoking Versus Cold Smoking

Posted on January 4, 2018 by RackzBBQ

BBQ Smoked Meats 317-688-7290

Smoked foods, like meats and cheeses, are a very popular meal choice these days. Various foods make the perfect candidate for smoking, whether cold or hot, including pork ribs, ham, sausage, beef, salmon, cheddar, gruyere, and even delicate cheeses like Brie. And although it is a food preparation technique that was introduced thousands of years ago, it continues to be improved upon by innovative culinary experts all across the world, every single day.

They are two primary methods of smoking foods: cold smoking and hot smoking. Both methods add tons of flavor and offer loads of benefits, but each in their own unique way. Continue reading to learn the major differences between hot and cold smoking, as well as some common knowledge regarding methodology and more.

Cold Smoking Meats

Cold smoking is a method of food preparation that infuses foods with smoky flavors and preserves them without cooking them or using heat. Average temperatures used in cold smoking environments range between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Cold smoked meats are known to deliver a highly flavorful, saltier, dryer, and less tender product. This result makes it a perfect cooking technique for hams, sausages, bacon, salami, prosciutto, and other types of cold cuts.

It is also the preferred method for smoking delicate foods like seafood and cheese because it enhances their subtle flavor profiles and adequately preserves them for weeks. This includes salmon, scallops, oysters, Monterrey jack cheese, cheddar, gruyere, and brie. Cold smoking is also great for drying out herbs and spices.

Hot Smoking Meats

Hot smoking is the more popular and well-known method because it delivers a juicy, succulent, tender meat product. This is why it is the preferred method for meats like beefsteaks, chicken, ribs, and other pork cuts. It is an all-in-one process since the wood, meat, and smoke are all in the same chamber. In contrast to cold smoking, hot smoking utilizes heat to cook foods, which renders hot, moist, and ready-to-eat meals.

The average temperatures used to achieve hot smoked meats are very high, ranging between 190 and 300 degrees Fahrenheit. This cooks food in as little as one hour, infusing them with distinct flavors of oak, mesquite, hickory, cherry, or apple. These are the most popular woods for hot smoking meat.

Smoked Barbecue Meats Near You!

Rackz BBQ
317-688-7290

Visit Rackz BBQ in Carmel, Indiana for delicious smoked meat entrees, hand-crafted barbecue sauces, and homemade side items, like peach baked beans, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, and more. From appetizers and sandwiches, to salads, entrees, and desserts, there is much to choose from on our comprehensive BBQ menu, so be sure to try them all! Contact us during regular business hours at 317-688-7290 to ask us about our menu prices, weekly specials, and more. We accept call-ahead and takeout orders too!

What is the Difference Between Spare Ribs and Baby Back Ribs?

Posted on December 21, 2017 by RackzBBQ

Whether baby back or spare, you can’t go wrong with barbecue ribs. But do you know the difference between the two?

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To an untrained palate, it may seem like all ribs are the same. But to a barbecue ribs lover, the difference is distinct. The confusion often happens with baby back ribs and spare ribs because many diners can’t recall what it is that truly sets them apart.

To understand the difference, you need to know that pork ribs come from the same two places on a pig, and the type of ribs depend on the area in which the meat is cut. Continue reading to learn more about the difference between baby back ribs and spare ribs.

🍖 Spare Ribs

Spare ribs are also known as side ribs. You can think of them as the bigger brother to baby backs. They come from the underbelly of the pig where the bacon comes from. Yes, BACON! Compared to the popular baby back cut, spare ribs are thicker and meatier, and generally come with the sternum, costal cartilage, and flap still attached. These are the ribs that are traditionally prepared St. Louis style or Louisiana style, which is something you will commonly see at restaurants and barbecue competitions. In these cases, spare ribs that are prepared in these styles usually have their costal cartilage trimmed from the top and the flaps removed from the back, giving the meat a uniform rectangular shape.

🍖 Baby Back Ribs

Baby back ribs are also referred to as loin robs or back ribs. They are cut from the backside of a pig along the spine, which also happens to be very close to the area where pork chops are cut from. Compared to spare ribs, they are less meaty and fatty, and cook much faster; however, they still retain flavors and moisture very well when cooked properly, making them very tender. They are also the more commercially-promoted meat. This actually contributes to their higher price points because they are higher in demand due to mass marketing.

Visit Rackz BBQ for Top-Choice Barbecue Ribs and More!

Rackz BBQ
317-688-7290

Rackz BBQ offers a wide selection of delicious smoked meats and southern comfort foods that are sure to please the entire family. Located conveniently in Carmel, you can stop by anytime for lunch or dinner. Enjoy our made-from-scratch menu filled with traditional barbecue classics, like ribs, brisket, chicken, mac-n-cheese, corn bread, and more! If you don’t have time to sit down at our restaurant, place a takeout order for a hot and fresh meal on the go! Contact us at 317-688-7290 to place a call ahead order, or to learn more about our menu selections, prices, and specials.

Understanding the Cost of Catering Service

Posted on December 15, 2017 by RackzBBQ

Before making any final decisions about which catering service to go with for your upcoming occasion, it is important to understand how different types of caterers might price their services. When you sit down with a catering representative at a company of your choice, you may be in for a total surprise when you read the quote they offer you. Furthermore, they may even try to up-sell you on services and amenities you do not need.

To avoid being caught off-guard by an expensive or unnecessary catering quote, it is helpful to understand how some catering services segment their prices, and how to match your catering needs with the right provider in order to save money. With this knowledge, you can ensure that you pay for only what you need. Continue reading to learn some common catering price models, and how to find the proper catering service for your particular event.

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Varying Costs of Catering Services

It is important to understand that catering services differ among providers, from fancy and formal, to casual and simple. The type of catering service you choose will have a major impact on the cost and amenities you receive. If you are planning a wedding, you would want to choose a more formal, all-inclusive service that can additionally provide wait staff, linens, table décor, and more. If you are planning a family reunion at a local park, you could opt for a less formal catering service that can provide hot meals, deliveries, drop-offs, and cleanup, saving you time and money. Overall, the less formal the catering service, the less expensive it will be.

Common Pricing Models

Restaurants that offer catering services generally use a conditional method that is fitting to their unique business model. This means that most catering companies price their services differently. It all depends on their available resources, experience, number of staff, and more. A more accomplished and experienced company may be able to provide lower costs and additional discounted rates, while a new company just starting out may not be able to offer any deals in order to cover their overhead costs. Here is a list of factors that change, and ultimately determine, the total cost of catering service from company to company:

☙ The Distance in Which the Caterer Needs to Travel to the Appointed Destination
☙ The Type of Venue
☙ Amenities Offered (i.e. On-site smoker, chocolate fountain, champagne tower, etc.)
☙ Start Time and Duration of the Event
☙ Number of Guests
☙ Special Requests and Preferences
☙ Type of Food, Beverage, and Dessert Menu
☙ Cost of Food
☙ Requested Number of Catering Staff
☙ Gratuity
☙ And More

Large-Scale Catering

It is also important to know that some caterers use certain “thumb rules” when providing their services that affect the total cost of catering. These rules are specific to each company, and will differ among caterers and their business models. For example, many large-scale catering companies will typically add an additional 5 to 10% of food so there is never a potential for shortage. This also covers them in the case that a dish or part of the menu is dropped, prepared incorrectly, or disrupted in any way. It is like a safe-guard that ends up costing customers more money, but also protects them from a lack of food. It is also good for clients to know that large-scale caterers often charge three times the rate of the actual food cost. This means if they are preparing a dish that is $10 per person, they will charge clients $30 a plate to cover their overhead and services they provide along with the courses.

A Simpler and More Affordable Approach to Catering…

Rackz BBQ
317-688-7290

If you are looking for a simpler, more cost-effective approach to catering, choose Rackz BBQ for authentic smoked meats and southern classics that are sure to fit the budget. We can customize a catering menu specific to your party’s theme, personal preferences, dietary restrictions, and more! We also offer delivery services, drop off service, set up, breakdown, and cleanup for all clients. Aside from catering, we also accept call-ahead orders for pickup when you just don’t feel like cooking dinner. Contact us at 317-688-7290 to learn more about our barbecue catering services and selections here in Carmel, Indiana.

Rackz BBQ Has Officially Launched a Brand New Website!

Posted on December 5, 2017 by RackzBBQ

When you’re in the mood for great barbecue, our pitmasters have the tasty cuts and smoked classics you’ll love! And now we have a brand new website showcasing all of our famous menu selections, services, and more!

www.rackzbbqindy.com

BBQ Restaurant Carmel, IN 317-688-7290

Rackz BBQ welcomes everyone to our brand new website! Now our valued customers and surrounding community can enjoy a hassle-free online experience getting to know our restaurant and the wonderful amenities we offer here in Carmel, Indiana! So the next time you crave great barbecue, you’ll know exactly where to go!

See Our Homemade Classics and More!

When you visit our brand new website, you quickly learn that finding your way around is simple! Our HOME page is easy to navigate, and contains various links to all the features and amenities you are looking for. Start by visiting our MENU page to look through our selection of house made barbecue sauces, smoked meats, classic cuisines, handcrafted side items, and decadent desserts. Everything here at Rackz BBQ is made from scratch and carefully crafted using the freshest local ingredients and authentic flavors.

Don’t feel like cooking? You don’t have to! We accept call ahead orders for pickup every day of the week. Simply give us a call, tell us what you want, and pay for it at pickup! We are conveniently located in Carmel, Indiana, right off of Hazel Dell Parkway, and just North of Main Street. You can click the map on our Home page or CONTACT page to get instant directions to our location, anytime! When you come into our restaurant, you are treated with the utmost courtesy and respect.

Just visit our ABOUT US page to meet the team and learn more about our company history! You will see where we get our passion and drive for providing outstanding service and delicious meals at an affordable price. In fact, you can see what others are saying about Rackz BBQ by reading our customer testimonials on our REVIEWS page!

You Have a BBQ Caterer Near You!

How about party planning? If you are planning a party or event, Rackz will provide the food for you! You can check out our CATERING page to learn everything you need to know about our catering options. Our culinary experts provide affordable catering services for all events, occasions, and industries throughout Indianapolis and Central Indiana! You can choose from our house menu items, or work with our catering coordinators to customize a meal plan unique to your event. From office box lunches and birthday parties, to tailgate catering, on-site smokers, and more, we have what you need to create a memorable occasion within your budget!

Want a Meaningful Job in Food Service?

Are you a motivated person who gets excited about food? Are you looking for new and stimulating employment that can serve as the start of a long, fruitful, and rewarding career in the food industry? Visit our JOBS page to learn more about the employment opportunities at Rackz BBQ! If you are an energetic and reliable team player with a commitment to outstanding customer service, we encourage you to apply! Go to our Contact Us page and give us a call to learn more about the application process.

Visit Rackz BBQ in Carmel!

Rackz BBQ Carmel, IN 317-688-7290

Rackz BBQ is eager to impress you with our delicious, made from scratch barbecue cuisines. As a restaurant dedicated to quality and value, you can trust us for exceptional customer service, neighborhood prices, and most importantly, authentic barbecue fare that you will love. Call us anytime at 317-688-7290 to speak with a friendly restaurant manager about our weekly specials, current menu selections, catering information, and to place pickup orders. We look forward to seeing you!