Instructions on Use of Charcoal Smokers

Set the smoker in a safe location. Clear any flammable materials from the nearby area, and avoid placing the smoker next to a garage or home wall. Open the smoker lid and remove the wire grill. Remove the water tray.

Pour charcoal into the bottom smoker pan. The amount of charcoal will depend on the size of your smoker. Spread the charcoal evenly. Moisten the charcoal with lighter fluid.

Use newspaper or a grill lighter to ignite the charcoal. Allow the charcoal burn about 20 minutes.

Open the smoker and spread the wood chips evenly across the charcoal. Use barbecue tools to rearrange the charcoal and wood chips for even heating. Use more chips for additional flavor or less for a milder taste.

Fill the water tray two-thirds full. Carefully place the water tray on top of the charcoal pan. Place the wire cooking rack over the tray.

Put the food on the cooking rack. Keep a few inches of space between each piece of food, especially meat, to allow proper flow of heat. Close the smoker cover.

Cook approximately one hour per pound of food, although time will vary depending on the food. Cook vegetables for a shorter time. Check food frequently, and use barbecue tools to turn the food so both sides cook properly.

Open the cover when the food is cooked. Allow the smoker to cool completely before removing the water tray and charcoal pan.