Author: Mike

Smoked Beets with Balsamic Glaze

Wow. I love beets, but I really wasn’t expecting these smoked beets with balsamic glaze to be so amazing. The perfect combination of flavors, starting with just a hint of smoke and ending with goat cheese drizzled with a fantastic balsamic glaze. The more I cook, the more I find myself using balsamic vinegar in my dishes, and it certainly was a star in this one.

If you don’t have a smoker you can still make these beets. Just toss them in a 375 F oven and roast them until tender. They won’t have that light smoky flavor, but they will still be great with the glaze and cheese.

Smoked Beets with Balsamic Glaze

No Fresh Beets? No Problem!

In a pinch you can skip using fresh beets when you make these smoked beets with balsamic glaze. Grab canned or jarred, slice and serve with the remaining ingredients. Or just make my non-smoked beet but-still-really-great beet salad.

I recommend that you use a grill basket when smoking these beets. It makes cooking easier and you don’t have to worry about anything falling through the grates. And cleanup is easier too!

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

Also try my grilled golden beets.

Smoked Beets with Balsamic Glaze
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Smoked Beets with Balsamic Glaze

Wow. I love beets, but I really wasn’t expecting these smoked beets with balsamic glaze to be so amazing. The perfect combination of flavors, starting with just a hint of smoke and ending with goat cheese drizzled with a fantastic balsamic glaze.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword beets, smoked
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 111kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

For the beets

  • 4 large beets
  • herb goat cheese
  • Balsamic glaze from below

For balsamic glaze

Instructions

For the beats

  • Fire up your smoker for smoking at 250 F.
  • Meanwhile, boil or steam the beats until just tender. Let cool completely then peel.
  • Transfer beets to the smoker and smoke for 30 minutes-1 hour. You just want a hint of smoke flavor.
  • Remove from the smoker and let cool then slice thin.
  • Serve with the cheese drizzled with the balsamic glaze.

For balsamic glaze

  • Add all ingredients to a small saucepan.
  • Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer and continue to simmer, stirring often, until thick. The glaze should coat the back of spoon.
  • Remove from heat and cover until ready to use.

Notes

Best served immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 111kcal | Carbohydrates: 25g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 186mg | Potassium: 478mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 20g | Vitamin A: 45IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 30mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

Oh how I do love Shake ‘N Bake pork chops. And as much as they are great made in the oven, I was completely blown away by how fantastic they were cooked in my Char-Broil Big Easy. Crazy tasty, the chops were unbelievably moist and tender. Every bite was so good, I hated coming to the end. Well, except that I saved the bone for last. You can’t have a Shake ‘N Bake chop and not gnaw on the bone. It’s almost a law. You could use boneless chops, but bone-in have much more flavor. These Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops on the Char-Broil Big Easy are insanely good!

Shake 'N Bake Pork Chops on the Char-Broil Big Easy

A Few Cooking Notes

I used 3/4″ bone-in chops, which took just over 20 minutes to cook to 160 F. I cooked the chops in Bunk Bed baskets lined with foil for easy clean up. Depending on the size of your chops, you might be able to cook two at a time per basket, but don’t crowd them or they won’t cook completely or consistently. If you use multiple bunk bed baskets so you can cook multiple chops at once keep in mind that each level might cook at a different rate. Try to use same-thickness chops on each level so they all finish at the same time.

You can use any flavor Shake ‘N Bake you like. Read the package instructions to decide how much you’ll need for the chops you have. I prefer my homemade chipotle Shake ‘N Bake. It takes just like the classic mix, but with a nice little smoky kick.

The bunk bed basket lets you double the amount of cooking space you have on your Big Easy. And it’s easy to take in and out of the cooker too!

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

I like my pork chops with a crispy side salad topped with croutons that I also made on my Big Easy.

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

Shake 'N Bake Pork Chops on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Shake ‘N Bake Pork Chops on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Crazy tasty, the chops were unbelievably moist and tender. Every bite was so good, I hated coming to the end. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, pork chops
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 208kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Working one at a time, place a pork chop into a resealable bag containing the Shake ‘N Bake mix. Seal and shake until coated. Alternatively, pour the Shake ‘N Bake out onto a plate and press the chop into the mixture, flipping and pressing the other side to also coat it.
  • Line the Big Easy basket and any bunk bed baskets with foil. I sprayed mine with non-stick spray but I don’t think it’s absolutely necessary.
  • Lower basket into the Big Easy.
  • Cook for 20 minutes then check the temperature in multiple places. The minimum safe temperature is 145 F, but I personally aim for 160 F as measured in several places.
  • Remove from the Big Easy and rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

You can cook only one large pork chop (or maybe two small ones) at a time in the Big Easy basket. But, with a little finagling you can also add up to three Bunk Bed Baskets, giving you room for four large pork chops at once. Note that the chops at the top of the basket may cook at a different rate than those at the bottom, so start checking the temperatures after 20 minutes for chops that are around 3/4″ thick. Thinner chops will of course take less time and thicker ones will take longer.

Nutrition

Calories: 208kcal | Protein: 29g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 90mg | Sodium: 64mg | Potassium: 500mg | Vitamin A: 5IU | Calcium: 9mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

Grilled Cornbread with Jalapeno Honey Butter

Boy, where have I been that I haven’t grilled cornbread with jalapeno honey butter until now? I gotta get out more! Grilling adds a nice lightly smoky flavor, but more importantly it adds a terrific crunch. Add in spicy and sweet jalapeno honey butter and you have some fantastic tasting cornbread. I’m not sure I’ll ever eat ‘normal’ cornbread again.

Grilled Cornbread with Jalapeno Honey Butter

The Right Cornbread

I started with a big pan of already-baked thick (I used two packages of Jiffy) cornbread. You can also make muffins. You do have to be careful handling the cornbread on the grill since it will want to fall apart on you. The moister and thicker your cornbread is, the less problems you’ll have when you make this grilled cornbread with jalapeno honey butter.

Make Extra Butter

You can make extra of the jalapeno honey butter and keep it on hand for more than just cornbread (I recommend it on biscuits, and it’s also fantastic on English muffins!). It’s delicious and not overwhelmingly hot. For a little more mellow pepper flavor, try my grilled cornbread with Hatch chili honey butter. My chipotle cornbread recipe also works well on the grill.

Weber 3 Piece Stainless Steel Premium Tool Set, Black
Weber 3 Piece Stainless Steel Premium Tool Set, Black

Did you know you can also grill macaroni and cheese? It’s crazy good too!

Grilled Cornbread with Jalapeno Honey Butter
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Grilled Cornbread with Jalapeno Honey Butter

Boy, where have I been that I haven’t grilled cornbread with jalapeno honey butter until now? Grilling adds a nice lightly smoky flavor, but more importantly it adds a terrific crunch. 
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword cornbread, grilled
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings 8
Calories 118kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Whole and Lovely Oven

Equipment

Ingredients

  • 1 batch cornbread mix
  • ½ cup unsalted butter
  • 1 4 ounce fire-roasted jalapenos you can substitute a finely-minced fresh jalapeno (roast it first for even more flavor) that has been seeded
  • 2 tablespoons honey

Instructions

  • Cook the cornbread per package instructions. You can use squares or muffins.
  • Fire up your grill for direct cooking.
  • Melt the butter and stir in the jalapenos and honey.
  • Brush cornbread liberally on all sides with the butter mixture.
  • Place onto the grill over direct heat for 3 minutes until grill marks start to appear.
  • Carefully flip and grill on the other side for 3 more minutes.
  • Serve hot with any remaining butter.

Notes

Use hot honey for even more kick.

Nutrition

Calories: 118kcal | Carbohydrates: 4g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 31mg | Sodium: 3mg | Potassium: 7mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 356IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 4mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush
Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush

Green Chile Rubbed Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

When I saw that AlbuKirky Seasonings was having a sale, I jumped on it. I knew that Kirk’s Green Chile rub was going to be amazing on a chicken. So I cooked green chile rubbed chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy. It had that perfect hint of green chile peppers in each bite. You’re not talking spicy here, just wonderful pepper flavor. No need to add anything else.

Green Chile Rubbed Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Deliciousness In Every Bite

I used a whole chicken but you can of course use pieces or halves or heck, just wings. This right here is why I have a Big Easy. Well, three actually.
Seriously, the skin on this green chile rubbed chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy was crazy good. You have to exercise serious restraint. I recommend having a friend on hand to keep you from eating the entire thing before it’s even done resting.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver
Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver

Also try my Colombian-style chicken on the Big Easy.

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

Green Chile Rubbed Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Green Chile Rubbed Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

I used a whole chicken but you can of course use pieces or halves or heck, just wings. This right here is why I have a Big Easy. Well, three actually.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, chicken
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings 1 chicken
Calories 1638kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Lightly coat the chicken in oil.
  • Sprinkle chicken with the rub.
  • Transfer the chicken to the Big Easy basket and cook until done, usually 20 minutes per pound.
  • Let rest 15 minutes before serving.

Notes

Always be careful removing a chicken from the Big Easy basket as the basket and chicken are hot!

Nutrition

Calories: 1638kcal | Protein: 142g | Fat: 115g | Saturated Fat: 33g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 571mg | Sodium: 533mg | Potassium: 1440mg | Vitamin A: 1066IU | Vitamin C: 12mg | Calcium: 84mg | Iron: 7mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

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Barbacoa-Style Smoked Chuck Roast

It’s an understatement to say I’m a big fan of smoking chuck roast. When it’s on sale it’s big time cheaper than brisket and yet still tender, moist and ‘beefy’. Sometimes I slice my smoked chuck roast, but more times than not I chop it for sandwiches or cut it into chunks for use in a chili or stew. This barbacoa-style smoked chuck roast packs fantastic flavor and juiciness, with a nice hint of heat. Perfect on a chopped beef sandwich!

Barbacoa-Style Smoked Chuck Roast

Sliced Or Chopped, It’s Delicious

I do not trim my chuck roasts before marinating them. I want all that fat to still be on the meat when I smoke it, adding flavor and moisture. After the meat is done I slice or chop it, leaving off the fatty pieces. Fat is flavor and you want your barbacoa-style smoked chuck roast to have as much flavor as possible!

I prefer to use fruit or nut woods when I smoke unless I want a heavier smoke flavor. Pecan, apple or cherry are my favorites.

Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb
Pecan Wood Chunks 4lb

Try my fiery smoked chuck roast for a little kick!

Barbacoa-Style Smoked Chuck Roast
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4 from 1 vote

Barbacoa-Style Smoked Chuck Roast

This barbacoa-style smoked chuck roast packs fantastic flavor and juiciness, with a nice hint of heat. Perfect on a chopped beef sandwich!
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword beef, smoked
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 18 hours 30 minutes
Servings 12 servings
Calories 235kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Combine all but roast in a bowl.
  • Place the chuck roast into a large resealable bag or container.
  • Add the marinade. Toss to coat, seal, and marinade overnight.
  • Fire up your smoker for smoking at 250 F. Use a medium wood such as fruit woods or hickory.
  • Remove the beef from the marinade. Shake off the excess and transfer to the smoker.
  • Smoke until the roast reaches 145 F, about 1 hour.
  • Transfer the beef to a large piece of foil. Seal up tightly and return to the smoker. Smoke until the temperature reaches 200F, 4-5 hours more.
  • Remove from the smoker and let rest 15 minutes before slicing or chopping. Add any juices from the foil back into the meat for extra flavor.

Notes

Keep leftovers in the fridge. Reheat over medium heat.

Nutrition

Calories: 235kcal | Carbohydrates: 2g | Protein: 22g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 78mg | Sodium: 389mg | Potassium: 419mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 221IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 3mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

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Bacon-Wrapped Mexican Potatoes

Boy, crispy bacon… spicy Mexican chorizo sausage… cheese… I could actually just have these bacon-wrapped Mexican potatoes for dinner. By themselves. Nothing else. Just give me a platter of them and check on me in 15 minutes to see if I need more. Well, not ‘if’. Go ahead and bring me some more. They’re like grilled potato skins taken to a whole new level. There is so much flavor packed into every bite. What a happy day it was when I first made them!

Bacon-Wrapped Mexican Potatoes

Chorizo Adds Lots of Flavor

I love the spicy kick from chorizo in these bacon-wrapped Mexican potatoes. But, if you don’t, you can easily change these potatoes up to be a little more mellow by making them Italian-style. Substitute crumbled cooked mild Italian sausage for the chorizo, mozzarella for the queso fresco, and sour cream for the crema. Excellent! You’ll want to make a big batch and serve them as appetizers at your next party!

I recommend that you use a grill basket when making this dish. It makes cooking easier and you don’t have to worry about anything falling through the grates. And cleanup is easier too!

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

Also try my grilled volcano potatoes.

This recipe was inspired by a recipe from Aida Mollenkamp.

Bacon-Wrapped Mexican Potatoes
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Bacon-Wrapped Mexican Potatoes

Boy, crispy bacon… spicy Mexican chorizo sausage… cheese… I could actually just have these bacon-wrapped Mexican potatoes for dinner. By themselves. Nothing else.
Course Side
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled, potatoes
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings 20 potatoes
Calories 214kcal
Author Based on a recipe from Aida Mollenkamp

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 425 F.
  • Brush potatoes with oil and season with salt and pepper. Place on a foil-lined baking sheet and roast until tender, 20-30 minutes. Remove and let cool.
  • Fire up your grill for indirect cooking (you can also make these in the oven, so keep your oven going if you’re going to cook these indoors).
  • Meanwhile, crumble the chorizo into a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until browned. Remove from heat. Note: You want to get the chorizo fairly well crumbled. If you are having trouble doing so, just let the cooked chorizo cool a bit then pulss a few times in a food processor.
  • Cut just enough of the bottom of each potato so that they can stand up straight. Then cut just enough off the top so you can scoop them out. Take a small mellon baller or spoon and spoon out the insides.
  • In a bowl combine the chorizo and cheese and spoon into each potato.
  • Wrap a halved piece of bacon around each potato and secure with a toothpick.
  • Place on the grill over indirect heat and cook until the bacon starts to crisp, about 20 minutes, or bake in the oven at 425 F.
  • Serve topped with a small dollop of Mexican crema or cream cheese and garnish with green onions or cilantro.

Notes

Cook a little extra bacon and crumble it on top of the finished potatoes for more bacon goodness!

Nutrition

Calories: 214kcal | Carbohydrates: 28g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 207mg | Potassium: 799mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 101IU | Vitamin C: 15mg | Calcium: 35mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush
Weber 6493 21-Inch 3-Sided Grill Brush

Fried Smoked Wings

Visit my other site, For The Wing, for all things chicken-wing!

Wonderfully smoky, tender meat with a lightly crispy skin, these smoked and then fried chicken wings were a thing of beauty. These are one of most dangerous things you could ever put in front of me. I don’t even need any sauce to toss or dunk them in, either. Just give me a big basket of them and get out of the way!

Fried Smoked Wings

Smoke ’em

The process is simple. Season your wings, and place them onto your smoker. No messing around with them either. Just smoke for 2 hours.

Fried Smoked Wings

Fry ’em

When the wings are done you toss them into a deep fryer for a minute or so, until golden brown and lightly crispy. You can also make a big huge batch and freeze the smoked wings (before frying). All you have to do is thaw them and deep fry them when you’re ready to serve them at a later time. I was worried that making them from the frozen smoked wings would result in over-cooked, tough wings, but oh no, they were fantastic!

Fried Smoked Wings

Grill ’em (optional)

There’s a brewpub by our house that makes crazy-good chicken wings. They smoke them first over a mix of mesquite and cherry woods, then flash fry them. They sauce them then place them over a hot flame to finish them off. My approach is similar, but I don’t always put them onto the grill at the end. They are fantastic either way, but grilling them real quick does help set the sauce.

I get out my big deep fryer when it’s time to fry a large batch of food. It comes to temperature quickly and it maintains that temperature perfectly. It has a built-in oil filter and storage unit so I can re-use the oil several times.

T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel
T-fal Ultimate EZ Clean Stainless Steel Deep Fryer with Basket 3.5 Liter Oil and 2.6 Pound Food Capacity 1700 Watts Oil Filtration, Temp Control, Digital Timer, Dishwasher Safe Parts Stainless Steel

For smoked wings that seem like they were fried, but weren’t, try my almost-fried smoked wings. Same great crunch and flavor without the oil.

Fried Smoked Wings
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5 from 1 vote

Fried Smoked Wings

Wonderfully smoky, tender meat with a lightly crispy skin, these smoked and then fried chicken wings were a thing of beauty. 
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword deep-fried, smoked, wings
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 2 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 12 minutes
Servings 6
Calories 272kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your smoker for 225 F. Use any wood you like. I used Jack Daniel’s whiskey barrel chunks because I wanted a good, noticeable smoke flavor. Use a lighter wood if you want your wings to be a little less smoky.
  • Toss the wings in the seasoning.
  • Place the wings onto the smoker and smoke for 2 hours. No need to rotate or flip them.
  • When done, remove from the smoker. You can deep fry them immediately or freeze them for thawing and frying later.
  • To fry, heat canola oil to 350 F.
  • Working in batches, add the wings and fry for 1-2 minutes or until they are the desired color.
  • Let cool slightly.
  • Serve tossed with your favorite sauce and your favorite dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Optionally, after saucing, you can toss the wings onto a hot grill for 1 minute after saucing them to set the sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 272kcal | Protein: 22g | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 94mg | Sodium: 89mg | Potassium: 191mg | Vitamin A: 180IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Buffalo Wild Wings Milder Variety Bundle: Parmesan Garlic, Medium, Honey BBQ, Asian Zing: 12 Ounces Each
Buffalo Wild Wings Milder Variety Bundle: Parmesan Garlic, Medium, Honey BBQ, Asian Zing: 12 Ounces Each

Colombian-Style Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Note: This recipe was developed using the Char-Broil Big Easy Oil-Less Fryer. If you are cooking using the Char-Broil Smoker-Roaster Grill you should cook with the lid open and the temperature set to High. You might also need to adjust the cooking time.

There’s no denying that the Char-Broil Big Easy makes mighty fine chicken. Mighty tasty, mighty moist and mighty pretty. This Colombian-style chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy sets the bar really high when it comes to poultry. This chicken is so flavorful, packed with a fantastic combination of spices and vegetables. I remember being able to buy roast chicken on the streets of the cities in South America, and this dish reminded me of those experiences.

Colombian-Style Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

Crazy Good Chicken

Whenever I make a perfect chicken like this Colombian-style chicken on my Char-Broil Big Easy I laughingly ask myself: should I hire security to guard the patio? It’s just so good. I wouldn’t be surprised if some passerby jumped the fence to grab a taste! The aroma alone while the chicken is cooking is enough to drive you crazy!

I (obviously) used a whole chicken for this recipe, but pieces would work just as fine. Just don’t overlap them in the Big Easy or they won’t cook evenly.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver
Char-Broil The Big Easy Better Basket , Silver

Also try my Cajun-marinated chicken on the Big Easy. For a nice citrus flavor my lemon roasted chicken is a must-make too!

It’s always a good idea to keep a few spare grease trays on hand for your Char-Broil Big Easy.

Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack
Char-Broil 2425514W12 Big Easy Grease Tray, Silver- 5 pack

Love your Big Easy as much I love mine? Check out my Big Easy Add-Ons page and my free Big Easy eCookbook!

Colombian-Style Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy
Print Pin
5 from 1 vote

Colombian-Style Chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy

This Colombian-style chicken on the Char-Broil Big Easy sets the bar really high when it comes to poultry. Every bite is packed with a fantastic combination of spices and vegetables. I was reminded of the roasted chicken you could buy on the streets in South America.
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword Big Easy, Char-Broil, chicken
Prep Time 12 hours
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 13 hours 30 minutes
Servings 1 chicken
Calories 135kcal
Author Based on a recipe from My Colombian Recipes

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Place all but the chicken into a blender and process until it forms a paste.
  • Rub the paste all over the chicken, inside and out.
  • Place in a large resealable bag or container and let marinade overnight.
  • Fire up your Big Easy.
  • Remove any remaining paste from the outside of the chicken (it will burn in the Big Easy if you do not).
  • Transfer the chicken to the Big Easy basket and lower into the cooker.
  • Cook for approximately 20 minutes per pound, checking for 165 F in several places before removing.

Notes

Always use caution when removing the chicken from the hot Big Easy basket.

Nutrition

Calories: 135kcal | Carbohydrates: 23g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 1mg | Sodium: 43mg | Potassium: 634mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1389IU | Vitamin C: 35mg | Calcium: 240mg | Iron: 12mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket
Char-Broil The Big Easy Bunk Bed Basket

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Scorpion Tails

I’ve made ‘normal’ jalapeno poppers on my grill, smoker and using my Char-Broil Big Easy many, many times. These scorpion tails are like jalapeno poppers, but they’re a bit more fru-fru shall we say. Instead of cream cheese I used velvety smooth Havarti cheese. Havarti is one of the favorite cheeses in our household, often found on our sandwich wraps and grilled cheese sandwiches. Instead of smoky bacon I used prosciutto. You still get that same wonderful pepper flavor, and a little kick, and pork yummy-ness. Just a bit more special, and definitely something different to amaze and wow your guests!

Scorpion Tails

Go Light With Any Seasoning

I often dust my jalapeno poppers with my favorite rub before cooking them, but I decided to skip doing that with these scorpion tails. I didn’t want anything to mask the flavors of the cheese and prosciutto. You can certainly add some rub or seasoning if you wish. But if it was me, I’d skip it or keep it very light.

I recommend that you use a grill basket when making this dish. It makes cooking easier and you don’t have to worry about anything falling through the grates. And cleanup is easier too!

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket
Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

For a totally different take on jalapeno poppers, try some okra poppers. Yeah, okra.

Scorpion Tails
Print Pin
4 from 1 vote

Scorpion Tails

These scorpion tails are like jalapeno poppers, but they’re a bit more fru-fru shall we say. 
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Keyword grilled, jalapeno
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 18 bites
Calories 84kcal
Author Mike

Ingredients

  • 9 jalapenos halved, membranes and seeds removed
  • 9 ounces jalapeno Havarti cheese softened
  • 18 slices prosciutto

Instructions

  • Fire up your smoker for smoking at 250 F. Use a medium wood such as hickory.
  • Fill the jalapeno halves with the cream cheese. I've found that I can spread the cheese in with a knife if it has softened enough. If not, just cut the cheese into thin slices and then fill the peppers.
  • Wrap each pepper in a slice of prosciutto.
  • Smoke for 20-30 minutes or until softened.

Notes

You can substitute cream cheese for the spicy cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 84kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 5g | Fat: 7g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 18mg | Sodium: 160mg | Potassium: 43mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 191IU | Vitamin C: 8mg | Calcium: 87mg | Iron: 1mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

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Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

2-2-1 Smoked Baby Back Ribs

I’m a huge fan of spareribs trimmed St. Louis-style and smoked low-and-slow. I have to admit, my favorite part are the rib tips that come from trimming the spareribs. And that’s why, until recently, I haven’t really smoked a lot of baby back ribs, which have less fat and no tips.

This is The Way

Well, now I cannot stop making them. This is my go-to method for making the most tender, juicy, flavor-packed baby back ribs in around 5 hours. They’re truly easy to make and are about as fool-proof as you can get, and you get the same results time after time.

Don’t be afraid of the mustard on these smoked baby back ribs. It’s there to help the seasoning adhere to the ribs. Trust me, you won’t taste it a bit when the ribs are done.

2-2-1 Smoked Baby Back Ribs

What’s in a Name?

So why are they called 2-2-1 ribs? Because you smoke them uncovered for 2 hours. Then you smoke them wrapped in foil for another 2 hours. And finally finish them off uncovered for another hour. Now, depending on the size of the ribs and the temperature of your smoker, they might be done a bit earlier or later, but a minute here or there won’t make a big difference. Just make sure they’re nice and tender before removing from the foil.

Weber Original Rib Rack For Grilling, Small
Weber Original Rib Rack For Grilling, Small

If you prefer spareribs, check out my technique for making 3-2-1 smoked St. Louis-style ribs. Need a great homemade sauce? Here are just a few of the ones I’ve made and love: smokehouse, southwestern, atomic, Sriracha and sweet-n-spicy.

2-2-1 Smoked Baby Back Ribs
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2-2-1 Smoked Baby Back Ribs

This is my go-to method for making the most tender, juicy, flavor-packed baby back ribs in around 5 hours. 
Course Main
Cuisine American
Keyword ribs, smoked
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 10 minutes
Servings 1 rack
Calories 1270kcal
Author Mike

Equipment

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Fire up your smoker for 225 F. Use a medium or light wood. I prefer hickory, cherry, apple, peach or maple.
  • Spread a thin layer of mustard on both sides of the ribs. Dust lightly with the rub.
  • Smoke for 2 hours, bone-side down.
  • Lay out a large piece of thick foil (double it if using thin foil). In center of the foil squeeze out a thin line of honey, a few teaspoons of chili sauce, and a line of margarine.
  • Place the ribs bone-side down onto the center of the foil.
  • Squeeze out another line of honey, a few teaspoons of chili sauce, and some more margarine along the meat side of the ribs. No need to spread out the ingredients.
  • Seal the foil tightly and return to the smoker for 2 hours or until you can easily slide a toothpick between the ribs.
  • Carefully open the foil (the escaping steam will burn!) and remove the ribs, placing them directly on the smoker grates. Reserve the basting juices and brush them onto the ribs.
  • Smoke another 30 minutes, brushing with the basting juices every 10 minutes.
  • Now, brush the ribs the BBQ sauce and smoke another 30 minutes or until the sauce is set as you desire.
  • Let rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Nutritional values do not include the rub or sauce.

Nutrition

Calories: 1270kcal | Protein: 108g | Fat: 93g | Saturated Fat: 33g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 391mg | Sodium: 493mg | Potassium: 1400mg | Vitamin A: 125IU | Calcium: 176mg | Iron: 4mg

Nutritional values are approximate.

Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12'' Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill - Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush
Smoke Tube for Pellet Smoker, 12” Smoker Tube for Pellet Grill – Hot or Cold Smoker Accessories for Electric Gas Charcoal Grilling, Premium Stainless Steel Portable Barbecue Smoking Tube, Bonus Brush

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