Your Step-By-Step Guide to Smoking Brisket, Ribs and Pulled Pork
Spring has officially arrived—and that means it’s time to fire up the smoker and embrace the delicious art of low-and-slow cooking. Whether you’re dreaming of tender brisket, juicy ribs or melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork, smoking meat is one of the most rewarding backyard hobbies you can take on.
At Rocky’s Ace Hardware, we’re proud to be your go-to grilling headquarters. With name-brand smokers, premium wood chips, flavorful rubs and sauces and expert advice from our team, we’ve got everything you need to smoke like a pro—even if you’re just getting started.
Step 1: Choose the Right Smoker
There are several types of smokers to choose from:
- Pellet smokers offer consistent heat and great flavor—perfect for beginners.
- Offset smokers give you full control over the fire but take a little more finesse.
- Electric and gas smokers are low-maintenance and ideal for set-it-and-forget-it cooking.
Come by the store to explore the latest models from brands like Traeger, Weber and Big Green Egg. As an added bonus, we offer free assembly and delivery for grill purchases of $399+.
Step 2: Pick Your Wood
Different woods give different flavors. For brisket, try oak or hickory. For ribs and pork, apple, cherry or pecan offer sweet, subtle notes. We carry a full range of wood chips and chunks to suit your smoker and your taste.
Step 3: Prep the Meat
Good barbecue starts with good prep. Trim excess fat, then apply a dry rub (we’ve got great rubs and sauces in stock, or make your own with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic and brown sugar). Let it rest in the fridge at least a couple hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
Step 4: Low and Slow is the Way to Go
Keep your smoker between 225–250°F. Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature—brisket is done at about 200°F, pork shoulder around 195°F and ribs when they bend easily without breaking.
Step 5: Don’t Rush the Rest
After smoking, wrap the meat in foil and let it rest in a cooler or warm oven for an hour or two. We know you’re hungry, but this step is key to locking in juices and getting that fall-apart texture.
Ready to become the neighborhood BBQ master? Stop by your neighborhood Rocky’s this spring to gear up. Whether you need a new smoker, accessories or expert tips, we’re here to help you make this your best grilling season yet!
