Dave Havermann throws in another piece of pecan firewood into the smoker. The aromatic scent of the wood floats in the air and reminds you of a comforting camp fire. Dave is the owner of East Valley Firewood which sells a variety of firewood from mesquite, to mulberry, pistachio, olive, and more. Inside the smoker, Dave grilled some salmon, pork, and beef ribs. The firewood you choose matters, and can infuse the meat with the smokey flavor of the wood. Mesquite is strong and should be used for less time but is great for red meat. Fish and chicken does better with subtler woods like pistachio and mulberry. Olive, applewood, pecan, and oak are best for pizza ovens. However, Pecan, says Dave, goes with everything.
Dave has plenty of everything and he has even smoked some water to turn into ice cubes he placed into a glass of 'Old Fashioned' for an enhanced smokey flavor. The benefits of a smoker results in a tender and flavorful meat of your choice. Admittedly, the smoker takes more time, attention, requiring throwing on more wood periodically, but worth the results. The smoker may take more time, but Dave says that is part of the joy. He says, you can sit with friends, have some drinks, and slow down time in general as you man the smoker.
Dave says the process is simple. In the case of salmon, squeeze over a whole lemon, pick a seasoning and create a nice layer before putting it in for 45 minutes to an hour at 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit. For other meats, such as ribs, use your favorite rub and smoke initially for two hours. Afterwards, take the ribs and coat it them in your favorite barbeque sauce, then wrap it in foil or butcher paper and smoke for another four hours.
Dave also supplies wood for fireplaces too. Alligator juniper sourced from Globe, gives off a pine scent and produces the pops and sizzle that people enjoy. So whether you want the warmth of a fire in cooler months, or the flavor of mesquite and pecan on your plate, East Valley Firewood is your local source for a variety of woods.
www.eastvalleyfirewood.com
'The benefits of a smoker results in a tender and flavorful meat of your choice.'