You can absolutely grill steaks on a Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker! While the Smokey Mountain Cooker is primarily known as a smoker, it can also be used as a grill. In fact, many people love the versatility of this cooker, as it allows them to smoke meats low and slow, as well as grill burgers, steaks, and other foods at higher temperatures.
To use the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker as a grill, you simply need to remove the water pan and cooking grates that are typically used for smoking. This will expose the charcoal grate, which is where you will place the charcoal for grilling.
Before you start grilling, it’s important to properly prepare your cooker. Make sure to clean the inside of the cooker and remove any leftover ashes or debris from previous smoking sessions. This will help ensure that your steaks cook evenly and don’t have any unwanted flavors from previous cooks.
Next, you’ll want to light your charcoal. I personally prefer using a charcoal chimney starter, as it allows for quick and even lighting of the charcoal. Once your charcoal is lit and ashed over, carefully pour it onto the charcoal grate inside the cooker. You can arrange the charcoal in a two-zone setup, where you have a hot direct heat zone and a cooler indirect heat zone.
Now it’s time to grill your steaks! Place the cooking grates back onto the cooker, making sure they are secure. You can then place your steaks directly over the hot coals for a nice sear. Alternatively, if you prefer a more indirect heat method, you can place the steaks on the cooler side of the cooker and close the lid to create an oven-like environment. This will result in a slower, more evenly cooked steak.
When grilling steaks, it’s important to monitor the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure they reach your desired level of doneness. For rare steaks, aim for an internal temperature of around 125°F (52°C). Medium-rare steaks should be cooked to around 135°F (57°C), while medium steaks should reach about 145°F (63°C). Of course, these temperatures can be adjusted based on personal preference.
While grilling steaks on a Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker may not be the traditional use for this cooker, it can still produce delicious and flavorful results. The cooker’s design allows for excellent heat retention and control, which is crucial for achieving the perfect steak.
In my own personal experience, I have used the Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker to grill steaks on several occasions and have always been impressed with the results. The sear from the direct heat method creates a nice crust on the outside of the steak, while the indirect heat method produces a tender and juicy interior. It’s a fantastic option for those who want the convenience of a grill and the added versatility of a smoker.
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker can definitely be used as a grill, and it can produce mouthwatering steaks with the right techniques. Whether you prefer a direct heat sear or a slower, indirect heat cook, this cooker has the ability to deliver delicious results. So fire up your Smokey Mountain Cooker and get grilling those steaks!
