Smoking food serves different purposes. You can smoke food to cook your food, add flavor, or for preservation. There are several smoking techniques to know about if you are into culinary arts. Cold smoking is one of them.
It refers to smoking your food under low temperatures, not past 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you do not know about this technique, you are in the right place. We will have an in-depth look at cold smoking and introduce you to the best cold smoke generators.
Hot Smoking vs Cold Smoking
What distinguishes the two methodologies? When you hot smoke food, you cook it by subjecting it to high heat. The ideal smoking temperature is between 125 and 176 degrees Fahrenheit.
Compared to smoking hot, cold smoking utilizes lower temperatures. For this kind of smoking, a temperature range of 68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit is appropriate. The temperature shouldn’t rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit to achieve the desired effects.
Cold smoking provides flavor while hot smoking cooks your meal. The meal will thus be uncooked. In addition, cold smoking will take longer than hot smoking. Unlike cold smoking, which may last for days, hot smoking your food only lasts for around three to four hours.
A sensitive sense of temperature is required for this low-temperature food preparation. You can utilize a chilly smoke generator at your convenience. It is an accessory for smokers that generates smoke at regulated temperatures.
If you are looking for the best cold smoke generator, this review piece will be an excellent asset. Below are some of the finest cold smoke generators to opt for, in 2022, if you are looking for one.
Our Recommendation
Bradley Smoker BCOLD cold smoker
Bradley smoker BCOLD cold smoker is our number one pick in this review of the greatest smoker add-ons. A look at its features will show you why it is our top recommendation.
Convenience
If you are new to using cold smoke generators, you will have an easy time with this model. Bradley Smoker BCOLD is easy to install, operate and maintain. When attaching it to your smoker, you connect it to the smoke tower and generator, and you are good to go.
It has flexible piping to transmit cold smoke, regardless of the generator’s position.
Flexibility
You notice this appliance’s versatility in its functioning. It is compatible with several Bradley smokers as it fits into all Bradley 4 and 6 rack smokers. Its flexibility also comes to sight, where you can use it to cold-smoke foods like fish, meat, and cheese.
Durability
When looking for a kitchen appliance, you should pay attention to its quality. With the Bradley Smoker generator, you have the guarantee of longevity. The utility is a powder-coated steel build, while the pipe is aluminum.
The materials used in its construction are of high quality and will serve you for a long time. The cold smoke generator is less prone to wear agents like rust.
Economical On Space
Another thing to appreciate about the BCOLD cold smoker is the space economy. Its dimensions are 17*11*12-inches, a relatively small size. When in use, it won’t take much space, the same as its storage. It weighs 10-pounds, meaning handling it is a stress-free engagement.
Key Features
Material: powder-coated steel and aluminum.
Product weight: 10-pounds.
Product dimensions: 17*11*12-inches.
Flexible 36-inch piping.
Compatible with Bradley 4 and 6 rack smokers.
Pros
- Effortless installation, use, and maintenance.
- Economical on space.
- A sturdy build.
- The piping is flexible.
- Hot external temperatures do not affect its performance.
- Compatible with most Bradley Smokers smoking appliances.
Con
- This generator may fail to work with smokers that are not from Bradley Smoker.
Top Pick
Smoke Chief Cold Smoke Generator
The Smoke Chief cold smoke generator is an excellent pick, courtesy of its vast array of features. Below are some of them.
User-Friendliness
This smoke generator is easy to use, coming with a user manual for your convenience. There is also a set of instructions, on its side, on a sticker. Once set up, you turn it on from the mains, and you are good to cold smoke your dishes.
Maintenance is hassle-free, especially cleaning. It has a coating that prevents dirt accumulation. In case of grime or other dirt on its surface, a quick wipe with a wet rug will work.
Space Economy
The Smoke Chief cold smoke generator has a compact build. It comes in handy if you have a small space. It can comfortably rest on the table beside your grill or smoker. The appliance is also lightweight, weighing 3.25-kilograms. This translates to easy handling when in use.
Versatility
The cold smoke implement will work with different brands of smokers and grills. This shows how flexible it is.
Durability
When getting kitchen equipment, never compromise on durability. This Smoke Chief model is very durable, owing to its steel build. It will serve you for ages, without signs of breaking down.
Accessories
This cold smoking device comes with several add-ons for easy use. They include a hanger mount, BBQ pellets, a measuring cup, and a cleaning tool.
Key Features
Product dimensions: 9.4*4*12.1-inches.
Product weight: 3.15-kilograms
Primary material: steel.
It runs on 110VAC or 12Vdc power.
Provided accessories include a hanger mount, measuring cup, and cleaning tool.
Pros
- Easy to set up and use.
- It is economical in space and is lightweight.
- The generator is durable.
- It comes with several accessories.
- Compatible with various grills.
- Ample smoke production.
Con
- It is prone to creosote build-up, which is quite hard to clear.
Runner Up
Smoke Daddy Magnum P.I.G Cold Smoke Generator
The runner-up position goes to Smoker Daddy Magnum P.I.G cold smoke generator. Like other entrants in this review, it has a fantastic collection of features. Let us look at the features to see the excellence it will bring to your kitchen.
Convenience
You do not have to break a sweat when using this smoke generator. Setting up is an effortless process, with a user manual coming to your aid for guidance. If you are a beginner, you will have a fulfilling time learning how to use a cold smoke generator.
Refill is also straightforward. You may reload your pellets anytime without the need to open the smoker or to relight. For cleaning, it comes with a stainless steel cleaning brush.
High Volume
The cold smoke producer from Smoke Daddy is ideal for high-volume applications. If you have a bigger smoker, this is the to-go appliance. It will produce sufficient smoke to bring out the desired flavor to your food.
Longevity
Smoke Daddy Magnum P.I.G cold smoke generator is a top-quality smoking accessory. It is a heavy-gauge and precision machine build that will serve you for ages. Aluminum also contributes to its lightness, translating to ease in handling.
Versatility
The smoke producer is versatile, an attribute that you see in several facets. First of all, it works with cookers from different brands, in that it has a universal nozzle that will fit into most cookers or grills.
Moreover, it works in both hot and cold conditions. A problem that you may encounter with most cold smoke generators is failure to perform in some weather conditions. With the Smoke Daddy model, you bid goodbye to this issue.
Key Features
Item weight: 7-pounds.
Package dimensions: 10.4*8.2*6.6-inches.
Material: stainless steel and aluminum.
Fuel type: wood.
Provided accessories: stainless steel cleaning brush.
Pros
- Suitable for large smokers.
- It is compatible with many smokers and grills.
- A sturdy build makes the smoker generator long-lasting.
- Effortless installation and use.
- It comes with a stainless steel brush for easy cleaning.
- Works in both hot and cold environmental conditions.
Con
- This cold smoke generator may leak.
Budget Pick
Premium Pellet Smoker for All Grills or Smokers
This pellet smoker is an embodiment of simplicity. This attribute contributes to its convenience. Below are other excellent characteristics of this implement that will impress you.
Ease of Use
A selling point of this smoke generator is its user-friendliness. As earlier hinted, its simple design is a contributing factor. It is a beginner-friendly implement that won’t stress you when setting up.
To use it, you fill it with pellets and light them, a simple procedure to pull. Cleaning after use is hassle-free, as it comes with a stainless steel brush for your convenience.
The cold smoker has a hexagonal design, making it less prone to falls. This shape also allows for adequate production of smoke.
An All-Round Smoke Producer
A feature to appreciate about the Premium pellet smoker is that it works with almost all grills and smokers. From gas grills, charcoal grills to electric grills, it is the perfect accessory for your cooker.
It also does not require a complex installation process. You simply place it on the grills and let it do its work.
Quality
The Premium pellet cold smoker is of high quality. Its primary material is 100% 304 stainless steel. This material is very sturdy, bringing along anti-rust and heat-resistant qualities. Heat resistance upholds its safety; as such, there is no risk in handling it when in use.
Provided accessories
This cold smoke producer comes with some accessories to enhance its use. They include a hook and stainless steel brush.
Key Features
Smoking tube size: 12.01*2.01-inches.
The package includes a smoking tube, a stainless steel brush, and a hook.
Smoker generator material: 304 stainless steel.
Fuel: electricity and charcoal.
Pros
- Easy to use and maintain.
- High-quality construction.
- Safe to use.
- Comes with some accessories for easy use.
- Adequate smoke production.
- Ideal for different kinds of smokers and grills.
Con
- This smoke generator needs constant refilling of wood pellets.
Foods You Can Cold Smoke
Which foods can I cold smoke? This is a question many cooking enthusiasts have before trying this smoking technique. There are low-risk foods to smoke, which hardly go bad. They include cheese, vegetables, hard-boiled eggs, and nuts.
You can also prepare pre-cooked foods like bacon using this method. When cold smoking, you have to be keen on temperature. It helps prevent the growth of microorganisms like bacteria, which can cause diseases.
Best Woods for Cold Smoking
Cold smoking requires you to have wood pellets or chippings to produce the smoke. Your choice of wood depends on the food you are preparing and the taste you want to achieve. For instance, if you are smoking beef, you can use oak for a mild flavor. If you want the meat to have a strong smack, go for mesquite or hickory.
If you are cold smoking veggies or fruits, use mild to sweet wood chips like maple and applewood. Cheese is a typical dish for cold smoking. To enhance its taste, you can use pecan or sugar maple to enhance its sweetness. If it is cheddar cheese, try out hickory to boost its strong savor.
Dangers of Cold Smoking
While cold smoking is an excellent way of preserving food and enhancing its savor, it has dangers that you should know about. An issue you may encounter with this mode of food preservation is infestation by microorganisms.
It is common for uncooked foods, mainly meat dishes. Bacteria can thrive in low temperatures, exposing you to diseases. When cold smoking meat, you have to be a pro, otherwise you may put your health on the line.
You should also know that this smoking technique takes a lot of time. It means you have to be patient, lest you end up with an undesired outcome.
Safety Tips for Cold Smoking
Have the Right Equipment
When cold smoking, always have the right gear with you to prevent accidents. Get a pair of gloves for safety when handling the smoker. Furthermore, install the cold smoke generator safely to prevent leakages, especially if you are using it in the house.
The keenness with Your Food
Talking of keenness with your food may seem cliché, but it is very crucial. It is so, especially when dealing with high-risk meals like fish, beef, or chicken. You can pre-cook meat dishes to make them safe for consumption.
However, if you are a pro, you can handle raw meat dishes.
Exercise Patience
Another safety tip is to exercise patience when you opt for cold smoking. It is a lengthy process that you should not hurry up, as your food may take several days to achieve the ideal taste. If you rush the process and remove the food before time, you may have undercooked food.
Final Words
If you love the culinary arts, cold smoking is a cooking method to try. It refers to smoking under low temperatures to preserve your food and add to its savor. Above is a review of some of the ideal cold smoke generators, which will help you in this food preparation mode.
Get the finest and have the assurance of perfectly smoked dishes.