Smoked meat

Smoked meat is a method of preparing red meat, poultry, and fish which originates from prehistoric times. The process involves flavoring the meat by exposing it to smoke from burning or smoldering plant materials, usually wood.

History

The practice of smoking meat dates back to the time of primitive cavemen. As caves or simple huts lacked chimneys, the smoke produced from fire would fill the living space and subsequently smoke any meat or fish hung in the vicinity. Over time, the process was refined and became a popular method of preserving meat.

Process

The process of smoking meat involves several steps. First, the meat is cured with salt or sugar, or a combination of the two. The meat is then exposed to smoke produced by smoldering wood chips. The type of wood used can greatly influence the flavor of the smoked meat. Common choices include hickory, mesquite, oak, applewood, and cherry wood. The meat can be cold smoked (at temperatures below 100 degrees Fahrenheit) or hot smoked (at temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit).

Types of Smoked Meat

There are many types of smoked meat, each with its own unique flavor profile. Some of the most popular include:

• Pastrami: This is a smoked beef product that originated in Romania. The meat is brined, partially dried, seasoned with various herbs and spices, then smoked and steamed.

• Smoked salmon: A type of prepared salmon, typically a fillet that has been cured and hot or cold smoked.

• Smoked sausage: Sausages that are smoked in a smokehouse. They can be made from a variety of meats, including pork, beef, and chicken.

• Smoked turkey: Turkey that has been smoked for flavor. It can be hot or cold smoked.

Health Considerations

While smoked meat is often enjoyed for its unique flavor, it's important to note that there are some health considerations. The smoking process can lead to the formation of potentially harmful compounds, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Consuming high amounts of these compounds has been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer.

See Also

• Barbecue
• Curing (food preservation)
• Food smoking
• List of smoked foods