Wood Guide
Welcome to the American Wood Products Guide! We are your premier source for purchasing smoking woods, firewoods, and other specialty woods online. If you are not familiar with how different types of woods perform, look no further. We have put together this helpful guide for those of you who are just starting or those of you who simply want to learn more. Click a link below to get started.
Moisture Content
Moisture content is the percentage of water moisture in the wood. Moisture Content is an important factor when it comes to smoking wood. It has a very large effect on the end product of smoking and certain moisture levels should be used in different types of smoking. Moisture content does NOT affect the amount of smoke produced. Moisture content increases the amount of water vapor in the smoke. This is important because it prevents the surface of the meat from drying out too much and hardening. When the surface of the meat is softer, smoke is able to penetrate the meat deeper and provide a stronger smokey flavor. Typically, low moisture is best for cold smoking (usually commercial) and high moisture is best for hot smoking (how most people smoke). American Wood Products sells three natural levels of moisture content: High, Moderate, and Low.
American Wood Products’ high moisture wood is 25% – 35% moisture. This type of wood is generally going to be more expensive than those of lower moisture levels because of the level of care needed to maintain high moisture levels. This level of moisture is the BEST for obtaining a great smokey flavor when smoking at home. This product should not be used for cold smoking, and unused product should be kept in a freezer to maintain freshness and retain moisture.
American Wood Products’ moderate moisture wood has 16% – 24% moisture. Moderate moisture wood is a great product that can be used for just about any sort of smoking. If you are new to smoking, it is highly suggested that you buy moderate moisture wood products. All moderate moisture products should be stored in a cool, dark place to help retain moisture.
American Wood Products’ low moisture wood has less than 15% moisture. This is the most common type of smoking wood available on the market. This type of wood will dry out meats very quickly and is best used for cold smoking. Unlike the high or moderate moisture wood, the smoke produced from this level of moisture will most likely not penetrate very deep into the meat. This product is highly recommended if you are cold smoking, or need a product with a nearly unlimited shelf life.
Wood Types
We have 5 different species of wood to choose from here at American Wood Products: Hickory, Cherry, Apple, Maple, White Oak, and Pecan. Each species adds a unique flavor and style to your meat.
- Hickory – provides a strong, smokey flavor, so make sure not to overdo it with this one. It’s good with beef and lamb.
- Black Cherry – Sweet, mild flavor that goes great with almost everything. This is one of the most popular woods for smoking.
- Apple – Very mild in flavor and adds sweetness to food. This is a good selection for poultry and pork.
- Maple – Like fruit wood, this adds a mild and sweet flavor to your food. Goes great with ham and poultry.
- White Oak – Strong, but not overpowering, and very versatile. Beef and lamb are a good choice for this wood.
- Pecan