What are smoking boards?

Smoking boards are a great way to impart a fine smoke flavor to food. Moreover, they have the advantage that you can cook delicate food (fish) on them without risking it falling apart and disappearing into your fire.

To prevent the boards from burning over the fire, first saturate them very thoroughly (several hours) with water. For example, place them in a tub of water and then put a jar or something on top to keep them completely submerged.
For smoke boards, use the method of indirect grilling. So you put the preheated briquettes on one side of the heating grid. Once your barbecue is up to temperature, place the boards on the grill grate over the fire. Leave them just until the underside begins to turn dark and smoke. By that time, they will also probably warp and crack a bit. Now turn the boards over and slide them to the cool part of the grill rack. Place the food to be prepared on top, close the lid and allow to cook. The smoke from the boards gives the food a delicious smoky flavor. You can just serve the dish on the boards.

Usually smoking boards are made of cedar, but other types of wood are also common. Although ideally suited for fish, you can of course also use them to smoke vegetables or other ingredients, provided they require a relatively short preparation time.

You can use the boards multiple times. Brush off well with soapy water and then dry thoroughly to prevent mold.

Smoking boards do not have eternal life. If they are at the end of their rope, however, don’t throw them in the trash. It is excellent for making fragrant logs for your barbecue fire by cutting them into small pieces.