This review dives into the Char-Griller Smoke Champ, a 17-inch offset smoker, putting its performance to the test with a Kansas City ribs recipe. We'll explore the smoker's assembly, ease of use, and temperature control during a three-hour smoking session. From initial inspection and charcoal lighting techniques to maintaining consistent heat and achieving perfectly tender ribs, this review covers all aspects of the smoking process. We'll also assess the smoker's durability, construction quality, and overall value for the price.This comprehensive review highlights both the advantages and potential challenges of using the Smoke Champ. We cover essential pre-use preparations, such as oiling the grates, and address the natural oxidation of paint during high-heat cooking. Ultimately, we'll determine if the Char-Griller Smoke Champ delivers on its promise of producing delicious smoked meats and provides a satisfying experience for the home cook seeking a versatile and robust offset smoker.
Pros And Cons
- Can be used as a normal barbecue
- Offset smoker
- Paint oxidizes with heat
- Gets very hot
- Quite heavy
- Can have trouble maintaining a constant temperature
Read more: 10 Best Commercial Charcoal Grills: A Buyer's Guide
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
The Char-Griller Smoke Champ arrived, a 17-inch offset smoker ready for its debut. The initial inspection revealed a well-constructed grill, although the box showed signs of prior use; it appeared to have been heated and seasoned. This wasn't a problem, as the curing process was already complete.
The smoker features a design that allows it to function as a standard barbecue. It includes convenient side shelves for prep work, making it versatile for various cooking styles. The overall construction felt robust, promising durability for repeated use.
Lighting the Charcoal Chimney
Lighting the charcoal is a crucial step, and the video demonstrates a simple and efficient method. A chimney starter is used, a cost-effective tool that ensures even burning. The presenter fills the chimney with charcoal, places a lit napkin soaked in cooking oil underneath to ignite the charcoal from below.
The process is remarkably straightforward. The oil-soaked napkin creates a sustained flame, efficiently igniting the charcoal. Once the charcoal is glowing red and ash-covered, it's ready to be transferred to the smoker.
Preparing and Smoking the Ribs
Pre-seasoned ribs were used in this demonstration to focus on the smoker's performance. The glowing charcoal is carefully transferred to the firebox of the offset smoker. Wood is added to maintain a consistent temperature and impart a smoky flavor to the ribs.
The video emphasizes the importance of maintaining a steady temperature (around 250-275°F) for optimal cooking. The presenter monitors the internal temperature of the ribs to ensure they reach the desired doneness (around 190°F). The cooking process takes approximately 3 hours, with the need to replenish the wood to maintain the temperature.
Seasoning and Maintenance
Before first use, the presenter recommends oiling the smoker's grates thoroughly to prevent rust. A high-heat cooking oil spray works well to create a protective layer. The presenter explains that repeated use will help to naturally season the smoker, reducing the need for frequent oiling.
The high-heat environment in the offset smoker may cause the paint to oxidize; this is considered normal, and regular maintenance with oil will help prolong the smoker's life. The smoker is relatively heavy-duty, suggesting the construction materials are of high quality.
Final Results and Conclusion
After approximately 3 hours of smoking, the ribs reach an internal temperature of 187°F. The presenter removes the ribs, revealing tender and flavorful results. The Char-Griller Smoke Champ maintained a relatively consistent temperature despite requiring periodic wood replenishment.
The Char-Griller Smoke Champ is a robust and versatile offset smoker capable of producing delicious smoked meats. While it requires some attention to maintain temperature consistency, its ease of use, durable construction, and overall performance make it a worthwhile investment for backyard cooks. The offset design provides excellent flavor and the added convenience of side shelves makes preparation easy.
