This review dives into the Oklahoma Joe's Rambler smoker, putting its capabilities to the test with a small rack of spare ribs. We explore a simple yet effective cooking method, focusing on highlighting the natural flavor of the pork through minimal seasoning and a two-stage smoking process. From the initial indirect smoke, building a foundational flavor base, to the final hot and fast direct sear, each step is carefully detailed. The impact of the lump coal and peach wood on the overall taste and texture is also examined.Our assessment focuses not only on the resulting tenderness and flavor of the ribs but also on the Rambler's performance itself. We discuss the efficiency and portability of this compact smoker, contrasting its small size with the impressive results achieved. The review culminates in a definitive judgment on whether the Oklahoma Joe's Rambler delivers on its promise of high-quality smoking in a convenient and travel-friendly package. Discover if this little smoker packs a big punch.
Pros And Cons
- Juicy
- Good flavor from salt, pepper, and garlic seasoning
- Amazing pork flavor
- Perfect bite through
Read more: 10 Best Big Green Egg Rib Racks: A Buyer's Guide
Preparation and Seasoning
The cooking process began with indirect smoking, building a foundation of flavor. The ribs, already seasoned with a simple yet effective garlic and pepper-infused salt, were prepared for the next phase. This minimal seasoning approach allowed the rich pork flavor to shine through. The focus was on letting the quality of the meat itself take center stage.
This method ensures that the meat isn't overwhelmed by heavy spices, enabling the natural flavors to develop. The simplicity of garlic salt and pepper is often the best choice, providing a perfect balance of savory and subtle spice.
Hot and Fast Finish
After the initial indirect smoking, the ribs were finished hot and fast directly over the heat source. This step added a beautiful char and intensified the flavor profile. The video showcases the glistening ribs as they cook, highlighting the fat rendering beautifully.
The use of lump coal and peach wood chunks provided an additional layer of flavor complexity. This combination enhances the natural sweetness and smokiness, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy ribs.
The Reveal and Taste Test
The finished ribs are impressive, boasting a perfect bark and incredible tenderness. The small size of the rack on the Rambler is emphasized in comparison to the size of the smoker itself. This emphasizes the efficiency and portability of the Rambler.
A taste test revealed a juicy and flavorful rib, with the simplicity of the seasoning allowing the rich pork flavor to shine through. The combination of the smoking method, wood type, and minimal seasoning resulted in an exceptional final product.
Conclusion: Oklahoma Joe's Rambler Performance
The Oklahoma Joe's Rambler proved to be an excellent smoker for this small batch of ribs. Its compact size belies its ability to deliver outstanding results. The even cooking, enhanced by the direct heat finish and thoughtful choice of wood, created deeply flavorful ribs.
The simplicity of the seasoning allowed the quality of the meat and the smoking process to shine. The final product was tender, juicy, and packed with flavor, showcasing the potential of the Rambler for achieving high-quality results in a compact and portable design. For those seeking a smaller smoker with exceptional performance, this is a strong contender.