In this guide, we will show you exactly how to season an electric smoker.
Seasoning an electric smoker is an important step to ensure that it functions properly and produces delicious smoked meats.
And it doesn’t involve salt and pepper!
Seasoning is the process of preparing your smoker for use by removing any manufacturing residues and coating the inside of your smoker with oil to protect it from rust and grime.
You need to season your smoker to create a non-stick surface that prevents food from sticking and makes cleaning easier.
Additionally, seasoning helps to remove any unwanted odors or flavors from the smoker.
We’ll guide you through the steps to season your electric smoker and provide tips and tricks to enhance your smoking experience.
So, keep reading to find out more.
Why you need to season an Electric Smoker
It’s important to understand the need to season new smokers before your first cook.
The manufacturing process involves the use of oils, lubricants, and other chemicals that can leave behind residues. These residues can affect the quality of your food and even cause health hazards.
Therefore, you want to make sure you burn off these residues before using the smoker for the first time.
Seasoning your smoker also creates a protective layer that prevents rust from forming. This layer also helps to ensure even heat distribution.
The process of seasoning mainly involves two steps. The first step consists of coating the inside walls with a thin film of oil. Step two is burning off residues left from the manufacturing
If you’re an experienced smoker, you may be tempted to skip the seasoning process. But skipping out can lead to poor performance and even damage to your smoker.
By taking the time to season your smoker, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious and perfectly cooked food for years to come.
Choosing the Right Materials to Season a New Smoker
Choosing the right materials goes a long way to ensure the best results.
Wood Chips
Wood chips are an important material for seasoning your electric smoker.
You can use any type of wood chips you like, but oak is a popular choice as it produces a mild smoke flavor that complements most meats.
Paper Towel
You will also need a paper towel to wipe down the inside of your electric smoker before seasoning it.
This helps to remove any dust or debris that may have accumulated during shipping or storage.
Canola Oil
Canola oil is a popular choice for seasoning electric smokers as it has a high smoke point and is relatively inexpensive. It has a neutral flavor that won’t affect the taste of your food.
You can also use other types of oil for this purpose, such as vegetable oil, or any other cooking oil with a high smoke point.
Wood Chip Tray
The wood chip tray is an essential part of your electric smoker. It holds the wood chips that produce the smoke flavor. Make sure to clean the wood chip tray thoroughly before using it for the first time.
Step-by-Step Guide for How to Season an Electric Smoker
Seasoning your new electric smoker is an important step to ensure the longevity of your smoker and enhance the flavor of your food.
Preparing to Season Your Smoker
- Read the instruction manual that comes with your electric smoker. It will give you specific instructions for seasoning your smoker.
- Start by cleaning the interior of your smoker. Wipe down all the parts with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.
- Apply a layer of oil to the interior of the smoker. Use a soft cloth.
- Place accessories like trays, racks, and water pan back inside the smoker.
- Close the door of your smoker.
Starting Up Your Electric Smoker
- Plug your smoker in and turn it on.
- Set the temperature to 275°F and let it heat up for about 30 minutes.
- Adjust all vents to fully open to regulate the airflow.
Adding Wood Chips
Add wood chips during the last hour of seasoning. Enough should be added to provide smoke the entire hour.
- Add wood chips to the wood chip loader. Follow the instructions in your manual for the amount of wood chips to add.
- Continue seasoning for 1 hour.
After the smoking process is complete, turn off the power button and unplug your smoker. Let it cool down for about an hour.
Once your smoker is cool, use a clean dry cloth to wipe surfaces inside the smoker to remove any excess smoke or ash.
Electric Smoker Maintenance and Care After Seasoning
It is important to maintain and care for your electric smoker properly to ensure it lasts a long time and performs well.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Clean the inside and outside of your smoker after each use. Use warm soapy water and a sponge to clean the surface, racks, trays, and grates.
- Allow the smoker to cool down completely before cleaning it. Wear gloves to protect your hands from the heat.
- Protect the surface of your smoker by applying a thin coat of cooking oil or spray. This will help prevent rust and keep the surface looking new.
- Be sure to use mild soap and warm water to clean the accessories. Dry them thoroughly before placing them back inside the smoker.
- To prevent rust, store your smoker in a dry place when not in use.
- If you notice any residue or buildup on the surface of your smoker, use a food-safe coating remover to clean it off.
- Check the seals, racks, and other parts regularly to ensure they are functioning properly.
Tips and Tricks for Enhancing the Smoking Experience
There are some tips and tricks that can help you take your electric smoker to the next level.
These suggestions will enhance your smoking experience and get good BBQ results:
- Choose the right wood chips: Experiment with different types of wood chips to find the flavor that you like best.
- Use a protective layer: To prevent excess oil and drippings from damaging your electric smoker’s heating element, use aluminum foil or a disposable aluminum pan to create a barrier between the meat and the heating element.
- Don’t overload the smoker: This can cause uneven cooking and overall poor performance. Leave enough space between the meat and the heating element to allow for proper airflow and smoke moisture.
- Monitor the temperature: To ensure that your meat is cooked to perfection, it’s important to monitor the temperature of your electric smoker. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat and adjust the temperature of the smoker as needed.
- Avoid using extension cords: Plug the smoker directly into an outlet. Using an extension cord with your electric smoker can lead to performance issues and damage to the machine.
Final Thoughts on How to Season Your Electric Smoker
So there you have it. Our guide on how to season an electric smoker. All you need is a little canola oil, heat, and woodchips.
Following this process for seasoning will make your smoker last longer and your food taste better. And prevent rust too.
To me, it’s a no-brainer. Season your new smoker before you use it the first time and then after each use for the best results.
For more tips on smoking meat, read our BBQ guide, How to Smoke Meat at Home – The Ultimate Guide.
FAQs for How to Season an Electric Smoker
Does a Masterbuilt Electric Smoker Need to Be Seasoned?
Yes, it’s important to season your Masterbuilt electric smoker before the first use. Seasoning removes any dust, odors, or residues from the manufacturing process. Just coat the inside with cooking oil, heat it to 275°F for about 3 hours, and add wood chips in the last 45 minutes.
How Do I Add Flavor to My Electric Smoker?
To add flavor in an electric smoker, use wood chips. Different types of wood chips, like hickory, apple, or mesquite, give different flavors. You can also experiment with herbs, spices, or even citrus peels in the chip tray. Another tip is to use a water pan with flavored liquids like apple juice or beer to add moisture and subtle taste.
Is It Safe to Leave an Electric Smoker on Overnight?
Leaving an electric smoker on overnight is not recommended. Even though electric smokers are safer than traditional ones, there’s still a risk of fire. It’s best to use your smoker when you can keep an eye on it.
How Long Do Electric Smokers Last?
The lifespan of an electric smoker depends on the quality and how well you maintain it. A good electric smoker can last between 5 to 10 years or more. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and careful use can extend its life.
