Pellet cookers combine wood smoking with the convenience of gas grilling. Pellet grills can smoke, roast, grill, bake, or sear meats and vegetables. Here is how to use a pellet cooker:
1. Fill the Hopper
A hopper is the storage reservoir for the wood pellets the grill uses as fuel. It is located at the top of the unit and utilizes gravity to feed wood pellets into the auger system. The feeding mechanism is automated, allowing precise temperature control. Most pellet cookers have a clean-out door for easy pellet removal. To fill the hopper, open the lid and pour the wood pellets to the recommended fill line to avoid blockages. Closing the lid securely helps prevent moisture from entering.
2. Light the Grill
Plug your grill into a power source and turn on the power switch. Set the temperature dial to the smoke setting. This prompts the grill to feed pellets into the fire pot, which is lit by an electric igniter. Open the lid and wait for thick smoke to billow from the grill. This indicates that the pellets are catching fire, and the lid should be closed.
3. Set the Temperature
Set the cooking temperature by turning the temperature dial to your preferred reading. 160°F favors low smoking, while 450°F is used for high-temperature grilling. Allow the grill to preheat for about 15 minutes before you begin cooking. The auger will automatically feed pellets into the fire pot to maintain your selected temperature.
Some modern cookers feature programmable settings and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. This allows you to monitor and adjust temperatures remotely. You can customize pellet feed rates for different cooking styles, resulting in flavor variations from heat and smoke.
4. Prepare the Food
Select the necessary ingredients to begin food preparation. Pellet grills can cook beef, chicken, vegetables, and baked goods. Prepare proteins by cutting them to varying thicknesses. Cuts with more fat remain juicier during the longer cooking times associated with smoking. Spices, fresh herbs, and marinades help enhance flavor. Season potatoes, corn, and bell peppers in oil before grilling.
Before cooking, gather tongs, spatulas, and a meat thermometer. For smaller food items, use skewers or grill baskets. Many grills are equipped with hooks to hang and store frequently used tools. Use aluminum foil or grilling mats for foods that can fall through the grates.
5. Monitor the Cooking Process
Monitor the internal temperature of the meat as you cook. Many pellet grills have a built-in food probe plugged into the control panel, which allows you to check the temperature without opening the lid. Monitor the pellet levels and refill the hopper when they drop. Some grills are fitted with a warming draw to keep smaller cuts of meat ready to serve while larger cuts are still cooking.
Learn More About Pellet Cookers
A pellet cooker offers ample space for cooking different meals. Built-in ash drawers and grease trays collect waste while cooking, making clean-up easy after a backyard barbeque. Contact a reputable grill company today to learn more about pellet cookers.
