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7. SMOKE COOKING
Ensure that you have followed the assembly instructions in your Hark gas smoker Owner’s
Manual, particularly section D (The Gas System), to ensure that your gas bottle and smoker are
safe to use.
7.1 Recommended Equipment
Before commencing cooking with the Hark gas smoker, it pays to ensure you have all the
necessary tools and utensils required to achieve the best cooking results.
Thermometers
Prior to using your smoker, we recommend you invest in two types of thermometers. The first
thermometer can be used for checking the inside temperature of your smoker box. There are
several digital oven thermometers that are available in the marketplace, some of which are
remote. The second thermometer is used to check the internal temperature of the meat being
smoked. Here you can use products such as the Hark Remote Wireless Digital Thermometer or a
Hark Stainless Steel Meat Thermometer to periodically check the internal temperature of the meat.
Warning: Never wash a temperature probe, never immerse in water. Always wipe clean with a
damp cloth or sanitiser wipe.
Long Handle Tongs
A pair of long handled BBQ tongs for smaller pieces of meat or a meat hook for larger cuts is
recommended to safely handle meat during the cooking process and, to safely remove the meat
once take it out when you have finished.
BBQ Mitts
A good pair of extra-long, heavy duty BBQ mitts or gloves so that you do not burn your hands or
forearms. These are particularly necessary when adding water or wood chips to the smoker during
the smoking process. Refer the Hark Leather BBQ Gloves.
Smoking Sheet
Hark Smoking Sheets are great for smoking smaller items that will fall through between the bars
of the shelves. The coated Smoking Sheets will stop the food sticking to the shelves while still
allowing the smoke to push through. They also make handling delicate foods like fish easier as
well as the washing up process!
Aluminium Foil
Al foil is also required to wrap around meat once it has reached the desired temperature and
colour. The foil will help prevent the wood resins from further darkening the meat. It is also a good
idea to line the wood chip box and water bowl with foil before use. This can make the cleaning
process less cumbersome.
7.2 Preparation
• Place the smoker outside in a well ventilated area.
• Ensure there is enough gas for the Hark gas smoker to complete the preheating and cooking
process.
• Ensure the water bowl has water in it and is placed under the wood chip box. This way any fat
will fall into the water bowl and not onto the wood chips. If fat falls directly onto wood chips, it
could potentially cause a fire to break out.