Simple Food Storage Items - Liquid Smoke

We're fortunate in Texas to be able to barbecue pretty much any time of the year. But if you love that smoky barbecue flavor and don't have time to light up the grill or the weather’s so bad outside cooking on the pit isn’t possible, liquid smoke may be the answer you’re looking for to give you that great BBQ taste. As an added bonus, it’s got a great shelf life! Be sure to check the link on smoking poultry!

Liquid smoke is concentrated barbecue flavoring in a bottle. Although the process of making liquid smoke is generally a well-kept secret, the product basically comes from the collection of steam during the smoking process. Some products have added preservatives and chemicals, but a handful of companies bottle a purely natural product such as Colgin’s Liquid Smoke. Be sure to check the ingredients carefully.

Liquid smoke usually comes in 3 to 5 ounce bottles. Look for all natural ingredients, essentially water and a smoky concentrate. Look for local brands that may be available, and although they might be more expensive, they're probably worth trying.

Liquid smoke has a shelf life of several years and does not require refrigeration. For longer storage you may refrigerate an opened bottle to help retain flavor.

Liquid smoke can be used in practically any recipe that would benefit from an added smoky flavor. Most people recommend treating it like soy sauce. A little goes a long way, but quantity used really depends on individual taste.

Liquid smoke is ready to use right out of the bottle. It can be used to flavor beef, pork, chicken or seafood. It can also be used in marinades or simply as a flavoring during meals. You can use it in salad dressings, various dips and for adding a smoky flavor to rice or beans.

Liquid smoke is available in most supermarkets near the bottled barbecue sauces. Prices vary depending upon the size of the bottle and the brand of liquid smoke.

Because the flavor of liquid smoke is so concentrated, be careful about using too much in your recipes because of its strong flavor.

You can also find a great article on using liquid smoke for smoking poultry here:

http://www.ext.colostate.edu/Pubs/foodnut/09325.pdf

Where there’s liquid smoke, there’s great taste but no fire!

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker