Newbie first smoke q&a

[A36flyer]

So did baby back first time using hickory.  We ate them right after smoking.  We thought they were "spicy", not jalapeño spicy, but spicy.  I could easily see how some might like that, but we didn't care for it.  But what has my attention is the next day out of the fridge, they were great, just right.  I'm somewhat baffled about it, thinking it must be the hickory and we should try say apple wood.  What we did was the 3-2-1, 3hrs 225, 2 hrs wrapped with some apple juice, 1 hr unwrapped.  Use two total chunks of hickory that came with the unit.

Thoughts, what did we do wrong or right?

 

[SuperDave]

On day 1, everything is on the surface.  The "spicy" was your rub and nothing to do with the wood selection.  On day 2, all the smoke and spices absorb into the meat.  The smoke flavor actually intensifies and the spices mellow a little. 

 

[LarryD]

SuperDave is right on with the answer to your question.

On your method...  if it works for you, go for it.  That said, I never wrap my ribs or anything else.  With these smokers I preach that it's best to only open the door twice.  The first time is to put food in and the second time is to take smoked food out.  Wrapping and juicing are simply unnecessary and can actually have detrimental effects such as extending cook time, losing moisture, and making foods soggy.

If what you enjoy about smoking is the process and getting play with the smoker and food during the process then the SI's will actually be pretty disappointing. 

Welcome to the family, by the way!

 

[SconnieQ]

How did you season your ribs? Did you use a rub? If so, what was it?

 

[old sarge]

Welcome to the forum.  When you have time, a first name would be nice; more like family.  To your question:  Dave, Larry and Kari got you covered.

 

[A36flyer]

Your right proper introduction needed.  John F.  Live in Tucson, Az most of the time and second home is in northern Wi., summers.  Retired, IT guy, pilot is main hobby.

Thanks for the info, will try again no wrapping, no opening doors, I had used famous daves rib rub.  I'll try something else.  Learning here, all I know about smoking is that it's good!

 

[SconnieQ]

I had used famous daves rib rub.

Ah ha! Famous Dave's definitely has a kick to it. There's some cayenne in there, but it's not listed directly...probably part of what's listed in the ingredients as "spices". Sprinkle a little in your hand, then lick with your tongue. You'll see what I mean.