Special article brought to you by Kent’s Sports

BY JEFF SPENCER

Grill master Jeff Spencer of Kent’s Sports is going to bring tips and recipes all summer in this feature!

It’s spring and spring means grilling season officially begins!

The two most frequently asked questions I’m asked by new pellet grill owners are, “What’s the best wood type for grilling?” or “What’s your favorite wood?”. The answer requires a couple questions. First, “What are you cooking?” Second, “What is your tolerance for smoke flavor?” Each wood has it’s own unique flavor profile. For example, mesquite tends to have a more powerful and pungent flavor whereas fruitwoods tend to be much milder and even add an almost sweet note to meats. Hickory is one flavor that most everyone is familiar with because most commercially smoked meats like bacon are smoked with hickory.

The Green Mountain pellets we sell are blends with three wood types which enhance the flavor profile.

Experienced pellet grill chefs have been blending pellet flavors for years.

A simple guide.
• Beef – Mesquite or Cherry
• Poultry – Mesquite or Hickory
• Pork – Apple or Hickory
• Fish – Alder, Oak or Hickory
• Veggies – Hickory or Alder

The bottom line is finding the flavor you prefer. A big part of the enjoyment of using wood is finding the combination that is best for you.

FOR IDEAS AND SUGGESTIONS on flavors for your next recipe, stop in. We love to talk BBQ.

Smoked Salmon Recipe

Ingredients: 1 or more salmon fillets (I prefer skin on); skin off requires a grill mat or foil.

Season with Green Mountain Fish Dry Rub, or salt and fresh-crackeded pepper. Set grill to smoke at 180 degrees,

Start cooking: Smoke 40 minutes or until muscle layers separate with light pressure from fork.

If using probe thermometer in thickest section of fillet, cook to 120 degrees and rest covered for 15 minutes.

The FDA recommends 145 degrees for salmon; however, in my opinion, this produces overcooked, dry salmon.

GRILLING TIPS:
• A grill mat on deck or patio will minimize grease stains and protect against spills.
• Protect pets and grills by unplugging and tucking cords under cover when not in use.
• If using propane; close tank valve and move hoses to avoid damage from chewing .