How To Smoke Cheese In An Electric Smoker

Smoking Cheese in an Electric Smoker

Welcome to the wonderful world of smoking cheese in an electric smoker! If you’re a cheese lover and enjoy the rich, smoky flavor of smoked cheese, then you’re in for a treat. Smoking cheese at home is a fun and rewarding process that allows you to customize the flavor and intensity of the smoke to your liking. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to achieve perfectly smoked cheese using an electric smoker.

Choosing the Right Cheese

When it comes to smoking cheese, not all types are created equal. Hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or parmesan are ideal for smoking as they can withstand the low heat and extended smoking time without melting. Soft cheeses such as brie or camembert can also be smoked, but they require a shorter smoking time to prevent them from becoming too runny.

It’s important to start with high-quality cheese, as the smoking process will enhance the existing flavors. Consider experimenting with different types of cheese to discover your personal favorites.

Preparing the Cheese

Before you start smoking, it’s essential to prepare the cheese properly. Begin by cutting the cheese into smaller blocks or wedges. This will help the smoke penetrate the cheese more evenly. Some enthusiasts recommend letting the cheese sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to form a pellicle, a tacky outer layer that helps the smoke adhere to the cheese.

Setting Up the Electric Smoker

Now it’s time to prepare your electric smoker for the cheese. Preheat the smoker to a low temperature, ideally between 65-85°F (18-29°C). You want to create a gentle, cool smoke that won’t cause the cheese to melt. If your smoker doesn’t have a built-in thermometer, consider using an external thermometer to monitor the temperature accurately.

Adding the Wood Chips

Choose mild wood chips such as apple, cherry, or alder for smoking cheese. These woods impart a delicate, sweet flavor that complements the cheese without overpowering it. Add a small amount of wood chips to the smoker box or tray, as you only need a subtle hint of smoke for the cheese. Avoid using strong or resinous woods like mesquite or hickory, as they can easily overwhelm the cheese with their intense flavors.

Smoking the Cheese

Once the smoker is at the desired temperature and the wood chips are producing a gentle smoke, it’s time to place the cheese inside. Arrange the cheese blocks on the smoker racks, leaving some space between each piece for the smoke to circulate. Close the smoker and let the cheese smoke for 2-4 hours, depending on your preference for the intensity of the smoky flavor.

Monitoring the Process

Throughout the smoking process, it’s crucial to keep an eye on the temperature and the amount of smoke produced. If the smoker gets too warm, you risk the cheese melting and losing its shape. Adjust the temperature as needed to maintain a gentle, consistent smoke. Additionally, ensure that the wood chips continue to produce smoke, adding more if necessary to maintain the desired level of smokiness.

Resting and Storing the Smoked Cheese

Once the smoking time is complete, remove the cheese from the smoker and let it rest at room temperature for about an hour. This allows the flavors to mellow and the smoke to distribute evenly throughout the cheese. After resting, wrap the cheese in parchment paper and refrigerate it for at least 24 hours before enjoying. This resting period allows the smoky flavors to fully develop and infuse into the cheese.

Enjoying Your Smoked Cheese

After the resting period, your smoked cheese is ready to be enjoyed. Whether you slice it for a charcuterie board, melt it into a gooey grilled cheese sandwich, or simply savor it on its own, the smoky flavor of the cheese will elevate any dish. Get creative with different pairings and recipes to make the most of your homemade smoked cheese.

Smoking cheese in an electric smoker is a delightful way to add depth and complexity to your favorite cheeses. With the right techniques and a bit of experimentation, you can become a master of smoked cheese, impressing your friends and family with your artisanal creations. So, fire up your electric smoker and start your cheese-smoking adventure today!