Another chat on foil or not to foil. Soggy bark vs less moisture.

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viper

Smoke Blower
Original poster
Dec 6, 2010
122
10
I think I have asked before with a pretty split decision on foiling.  I tried some foiling in the past and it certainly makes the bark soggy which was not my preference.  I have also not seen many competition smokers use foil for much of anything.  I am going to smoke a chuck roast just because it is here and wife mentioned that last time, the beef was a little dry. 

So, is there a way to maintain good moisture without the soggy bark issue?  Has anyone tried removing the foil late in the smoke to let the bark firm up?  Seems to me once the bark is ruined, it probably will not come back.  I sear mine on the grill before smoking.  Just personal pref there. 
 
A water pan and injections help.
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Whole lot of recipes here for some.
 
I never inject...why waste the benefit of an intact whole muscle meat (if it has not been de-boned, etc), I figure. I never sear larger cuts, just smoke it up...searing will rapidly elevate the surface temp and reduces the amount of time you'll have to get the smoke to react with the meat. It also goes against the whole idea of low & slow, IMO. If you want a tough cut to be tender, keep it low & slow. Always a wet smoke for me when I hot smoke, unless I want reduced humidity for crispy chicken or to set the bark on ribs, etc. As mentioned, a water pan is a must if you don't foil, depending on your location (high relative humidity will be more forgiving).

Eric
 
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