A grill is a staple and crowd favorite, especially when hosting parties. Grilling shouldn’t be hard but some people are reluctant to use it with accessories like smoke tubes.

To simplify your the process of grilling for you, here are our experienced chefs’ easy steps and tips in using a smoke tube in a pellet grill.

How Does a Smoke Tube Work?

A smoke tube basically serves as the source of the smoke in a pellet grill. It is a pierced metal container that holds the pellets which are burned to produce flame and smoke. 

It is easy and convenient to use since all you need to do is add pellets into the tube and due to its design continuously provides smoke cooking your food in the process.

When Should You Use a Smoke Tube?

You can use a smoke tube whenever you want to add a smoky flavor to your grilled meat and dishes.

How to Use a Smoke Tube in a Pellet Grill: 7 Easy Steps 

Step #1: Ensure that the Tube is Dry and Ready to Use

Before anything else, make sure to clean the smoke tube properly and make sure that the tube is dry. Once the tube is clean and dry you can proceed to add the pellets.

Step #2: Fill Up With Wood Pellets

Fill up the tube with wood or pellets and tap the tube a few times to make sure that the pellets are settled and compact inside the tube. If there are noticeable gaps inside the tube, we recommend adding more pellets. 

Step #3: Fire Up the Grill 

Place the tube on the grill grates and ignite one end. Allow the tube to light up to start the preheating process. This will ensures good combustion. 

Step #4: Allow it to Burn for 10 to 15 Minutes

Set the tube and light it up. Allow it to burn for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step #5: Snuff Out the Flame 

After 15 mins, blow out the flame to allow smoke to form. Smoke will be generated to fill the cooking chamber and you can now start cooking your food. 

Step #6: Place the Food on the Grill

Place the food on top of the grill and cook the meat all the while the smoke from the pellets is infusing it with a delicate aroma. 

Step #7: Close and Cook the Food 

To maximize and fully infuse the unique smoky aroma and flavor into the meat, make sure to close and slowly cook the food. 

Difference Between a Smoke Tube, Smoke Box, and a Foil Packet

A smoke tube, smoke box, and a foil packet are used in grilling meat. However, a smoke box holds more pellets compared to a smoke tube. A foil packet on the other hand can be utilized as a makeshift pellet smoker tube. In other words, it produces the same effect as a smoke tube. 

Wood Pellets or Wood Chips? 

Wood pellets and wood chips can be used in smoke tubes. Furthermore, pellets burn slowly and produce higher temperatures whereas wood burns faster and will require frequent replacements until the food is cooked. 

FAQ 

The smoke tube should be placed in the grill. Make sure that the smoke tube is not placed on the burner which will be lighted for cooking and near the vent. It is best to place the smoking tube in a horizontal position.

Conclusion 

Using a smoke tube in a pellet grill is very easy. There’s no need for a comprehensive guide on how to use a smoke tube in a pellet grill, just follow these easy steps summarized by our grilling experts and you will cook a unique and smoky flavored BBQ. You will certainly spice up your BBQ party by using a smoke tube pellet grill.