Freeze before or after smoking?

[duckstruck]

The other night I was talking to a friend and making plans for the 4th of July.

Today here he comes on his own with;

3) 8 lb Boston Butts

2) 11 lb Beef Briskets

It would be better for my schedule to smoke them on the 3rd into the 4th. As a last resort  I could do them this weekend but time wise it would be tight for me.

For the best quality product being the goal should I.

1) Freeze the meat then smoke it on the 3rd / 4th

2) Smoke it this weekend and Freeze now and re-heat the 4th

3) Take a chance and leave it in the refrigerator for 2 weeks and then smoke on the 3rd / 4th.( least likely)

What are your thoughts?

Thanks

 

[chef willie]

I'd go with Door #2 myself....

 

[duckstruck]

One more question. If I smoke it this weekend do I freeze it whole or freeze it with the pork pulled and brisket sliced?

 

[msradell]

I'd freeze it whole and then cook it on the 3rd, if you cook it now you take a chance of it drying out.  If you cook it now I would definitely pull the pork before freezing.  Not quite sure what I would do with the brisket but I'd probably leave it whole and slice it after defrosting.