Smoking with pecan shells?

[Aussiecajun]

Hi all. I'm going to be cooking some baby back ribs on my pit tomorrow afternoon (still confused with the whole bbq/grilling/smoking thing over here so unsure what to call it), but am lacking any wood to smoke with. I do however have an abundance of pecan shells, thanks to my in laws having 3 pecan trees on their property. As I'm new to trying to add smoke to my bbq/grilling/smoking, my question is can I just throw the shells straight on the charcoal, or will I have to soak them first?

 

[CEHollier]

Hi all. I'm going to be cooking some baby back ribs on my pit tomorrow afternoon (still confused with the whole bbq/grilling/smoking thing over here so unsure what to call it), but am lacking any wood to smoke with. I do however have an abundance of pecan shells, thanks to my in laws having 3 pecan trees on their property. As I'm new to trying to add smoke to my bbq/grilling/smoking, my question is can I just throw the shells straight on the charcoal, or will I have to soak them first?

I have cooked with pecan wood and soaked it. It worked well and the taste was sweet. If it were me I would soak the shells.

 

[herohog]

I too use Pecan hulls and soak them for a few minutes before throwing them on the coals. Works great and adds that Pecan flavor.

 

[candrews86]

I have cooked with pecan wood and soaked it. It worked well and the taste was sweet. If it were me I would soak the shells.

+1 on soaking the shells. I would also think that breaking them up into fine pieces would prevent them from catching fire and would smolder more which is what you want for the smoke. Good Luck and hope it turns out great.

 

[asianpersuasion]

I'd soak them at least an hr prior to using them


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[Redd508]

I soak mine for about an hour before smoking but only use a handful at a time on the charcoal. Once the shells dryout they burn quickly and the smoke stops. I watch for the smoke then add a handful at a time until I'm satisfied with it. My last pork loin had a nice smoke ring and the sweet pecan flavor mentioned before. This is definitely my favorite method.

 

[the dubshow]

I'd soak the shells for 3-5 mins if I didnt have wood. Also, does anyone put a metal pan/tray with water in the pit while smoking?

I've heard it works great at keeping moisture in.

 

[madwabbit]

soak em for 10m or so then pitch in a handful at a time.

 

[Skiney]

Cool

Where are you getting the pecan shells from?

 

[Aussiecajun]

Thanks for all the info guys. Ended up cancelling the smoking today due to the weather. It's currently raining sideways outside. Will definitely soak before using them when I get another chance.

 

[Crippler7815]

Just leave the shells outside, and they'll be pre-soaked for tomorrow! Be sure to let us know how it turns out