"Tutall" wrote in message
...
On Jan 17, 6:11 am, "Craig Winchell" wrote:

It's your preference and all, but if the taste and texture results are
fine, I don't understand why the lack visuals is such a killer that
you'd return the unit. Just the perfectionist in you coming out? Not
criticizing mind you, just wondering why.

I understand it looks nice and all, did 40 lbs of butt last weekend
using oak wood and you'll never see a better smoke ring than when
using wood. But I'm just as happy eating the stuff cooked over lump
with less of a ring.

FWIW, in competition they teach the judges (at least in KCBS sanctioned
judging) that the smoke ring is a "don't care" feature, not nearly as
important as the appearance (presentation), taste, and tenderness.
Nevertheless many competitors believe it helps them score better in the
appearance column. However, at competitions where the majority of the judges
have been to the judging classes, that is far less likely to hold true since
the judges have basically been taught to ignore it for scoring purposes.

I like the way it looks, but have never found smoke rings to be important to
the flavor. Nevertheless I wouldn't dispute that it improves the enjoyment
of the barbecue for many, since we do eat with our eyes too.

MartyB in KC