Smoking meat is an art that requires patience, knowledge, and a little bit of care. Sometimes, nature might decide not to be on your side, and the skies start pouring down rain while you’re in the middle of smoking your favorite meat. While this situation might seem a bit frustrating, it’s not a complete disaster. There are things you can do to ensure that your smoked meat remains just as delicious, tender, and juicy as before, despite the change in weather conditions.
In this article, we will discuss some helpful tips and tricks for what to do if it starts raining while smoking meat. From covering your smoker to using waterproof tarps, we’ve covered everything you need to know to make sure your smoked meat stays unaffected by the rain. So, whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner, keep reading to learn how to handle this common problem.
Monitor Your Smoker Closely
Smoking meat is an exhilarating and rewarding experience, but things can quickly turn sour when the weather fails to cooperate with your plans. Though it’s inconvenient, rain can be managed if you stay attentive and cautious. This is why monitoring your smoker closely should become your first priority.
Keep an eye on your smoker’s temperature gauge, and adjust the heat as necessary to avoid fluctuations. Also, stay on high alert for any smoke leaks or water ingress that could affect the temperature and moisture of the meat. Ensure that the smoke flows without obstruction and regularly check the firebox to avoid any potential water damage. While this may seem like an added responsibility, staying vigilant during tough weather conditions will go a long way in producing delicious and healthy meat.
Adjust Your Cooking Time and Temperature
Adjust Your Cooking Time and Temperature
Rain can affect your cooking time and temperature when smoking meat, so it’s important to make adjustments accordingly. If it starts raining, your smoker may not be able to hold its temperature as well as it would in dry weather, which means your meat may take longer to cook. To prevent your meat from being undercooked, you’ll want to potentially slow down your cooking time.
One way to adjust your cooking time is by dropping your cooking temperature. A lower temperature will help the meat cook slower, but still thoroughly. With the added moisture from the rain, your meat will still stay moist and tender without the fear of overcooking. On the other hand, if you’re facing a strong rainstorm, you may need to increase your cooking temperature and keep a close eye on your meat’s internal temperature to ensure it’s cooked through. Adjusting your cooking time and temperature can help turn a rainy smoking day into a successful cooking experience.
Cover Your Smoker With a Waterproof Material
Smoking meat requires a consistent temperature and moisture level, which can be disrupted if it starts to rain. In this situation, it becomes necessary to cover your smoker with a waterproof material. There are several options available for a smoker cover such as a tarp, grill cover, or any other waterproof material that can quickly keep your smoker dry.
The key is to make sure the cover is large enough to cover the entire smoker and has the ability to be secured to the smoker to avoid any hazards. A tarp can be draped over the smoker, with the sides wrapped around and fastened with bungee cords. Similarly, a grill cover or a smoker cover, which are specifically designed for outdoor cooking equipment, can easily be secured with strings or straps. Covering your smoker with a waterproof material helps to maintain the proper smoking temperature and prevents the wood chips from getting wet, resulting in perfectly smoked meat.
Shield Your Meat With a Tent or Umbrella
When unexpected rain interrupts your barbecue plans, you don’t have to throw in the towel just yet. To protect your meat from getting drenched, consider using a tent or umbrella as a shield. This will not only save your food from being ruined but also keep the smoker dry.
To use a tent, you can simply drape a tarp or any other waterproof material over the smoker and secure it firmly with stakes or weights. A large umbrella can also work as a quick and easy solution. Just open it and place it over the smoker. Be sure to choose an umbrella with a wide enough canopy to cover the entire smoker and make sure it is secure against possible winds. These simple techniques will avert disaster and ensure that your barbecue event goes on as planned, no matter the weather.
Keep an Eye on Your Fire and Charcoal
Keeping an eye on your fire and charcoal becomes even more important when it starts raining while smoking meat. The rain can affect the temperature of your smoker, causing it to cool down. This can result in uneven cooking and undercooked meat. To prevent this, you must monitor the status of your fire and charcoal regularly.
Firstly, adjust the vents of your smoker to maintain the temperature. The dampness from the rain may cause your charcoal to burn faster, so be prepared with extra charcoal to keep the fire going. Secondly, make sure you have waterproof coverings for your smoker and the charcoal so that they stay dry throughout the cooking process. Keep an eye on the smoke coming out of your smoker and adjust the charcoal as needed to maintain the right temperature and smoke levels. With careful attention to your fire and charcoal, your meat will be cooked to perfection, regardless of the rain.
Manage Your Smoke Output During Wet Conditions
Managing your smoke output during wet conditions is essential if you want to achieve a smoky, flavorful meat while smoking in the rain. The first thing you should do is adjust the amount of smoke you’re producing. Too much smoke can create a bitter and unpleasant taste, while too little smoke can result in meat that lacks flavor.
Additionally, you can consider using different types of woods and charcoal to manage your smoke output. Woods that produce less smoke, such as apple, cherry, and grape vines, are preferable during wet conditions. On the other hand, charcoal briquettes produce steady heat and smoke that can keep your meat smoking even during a rain shower. By managing your smoke output, you can still achieve a mouthwatering smoked meat, even during wet conditions.
Consider Investing in a Smoker Shelter or Canopy.
When you invest time and effort in smoking meat, the last thing you want is for the weather to interfere. If the sky suddenly starts pouring down water onto your smoker, your meat will be exposed to too much moisture. This can negatively impact the flavor, texture, and quality of your smoked meat. Therefore, investing in a smoker shelter or canopy can be a wise decision.
A smoker shelter or canopy essentially acts as a roof that protects your smoker and the meat from rain and other elements. Whether you’re a backyard enthusiast or a professional pitmaster, a shelter or canopy can be a valuable addition to your smoking setup. You can either buy a pre-made shelter or design one yourself. Either way, make sure the shelter is durable and weather-resistant. By sheltering your smoker, you’ll be able to smoke meat regardless of the weather conditions, ensuring that your meat remains at the highest quality possible.
The Bottom Line
Smoking meat is an enjoyable outdoor activity that requires patience and attention to detail. However, weather conditions can be unpredictable, and it’s important to have a plan in case it starts raining. When smoking meat in the rain, it’s crucial to ensure that the smoker is well-protected from water and that the meat remains covered to prevent water penetration. By following these guidelines, you can save your barbecue session from being a total washout.
Remember that smoking meat is all about taking your time and enjoying the process. Don’t let a little rain dampen your spirits. Instead, use it as an opportunity to test your skills and experiment with different flavours. With a little preparation and a positive attitude, you can produce deliciously smoked meat regardless of the weather conditions. So, next time you’re smoking meat and it starts raining, just keep calm and smoke on!