How To Smoke Cheese On Traeger

Smoking Cheese on a Traeger Grill

Smoking cheese on a Traeger grill is a delicious way to add a rich, smoky flavor to your favorite cheeses. Whether you’re a seasoned Traeger enthusiast or new to the world of smoking, this guide will walk you through the steps to achieve perfectly smoked cheese every time.

Choosing the Right Cheese

When it comes to smoking cheese on a Traeger, it’s important to select the right type of cheese. Hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or pepper jack work best for smoking as they can withstand the low heat without melting too much. However, feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your favorite flavor combinations.

Prepping the Cheese

Before you start smoking, it’s essential to prep the cheese properly. Begin by cutting the cheese into smaller blocks or slices. This will help the smoke penetrate the cheese evenly, resulting in a consistent flavor throughout.

Prepping the Traeger Grill

Now that your cheese is ready, it’s time to prepare the Traeger grill. Start by preheating the grill to a low temperature, ideally around 75-90°F (24-32°C). This low and slow approach will allow the cheese to absorb the smoky flavor without melting too quickly.

Smoking the Cheese

Once the grill is preheated, place the cheese on a clean, dry grilling mat or a sheet of parchment paper. This will prevent the cheese from sticking to the grill grates and make it easier to remove once it’s done smoking.

Next, add your choice of wood pellets to the Traeger grill. For smoking cheese, mild-flavored wood pellets like apple, cherry, or maple work best. These woods impart a subtle smokiness without overpowering the delicate flavors of the cheese.

Close the lid of the grill and let the cheese smoke for 1-3 hours, depending on the intensity of smoky flavor you desire. Keep an eye on the temperature to ensure it stays within the optimal range for smoking cheese.

Resting and Storing the Smoked Cheese

Once the cheese has reached the desired level of smokiness, carefully remove it from the grill and allow it to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to mellow and meld together, resulting in a more balanced taste.

After resting, the smoked cheese can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerated for at least 24 hours before serving. This allows the smoky flavor to fully infuse the cheese, creating a delectable treat for your taste buds.

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor

Now that you’ve mastered the art of smoking cheese on a Traeger grill, it’s time to savor the delicious results. Whether enjoyed on its own, paired with crackers, or incorporated into your favorite recipes, your homemade smoked cheese is sure to impress family and friends alike.

So, fire up your Traeger grill, select your favorite cheeses, and embark on a flavorful journey into the world of smoked cheese. With a little patience and the right techniques, you’ll be delighting in your own gourmet creations in no time.