The process involves cooking a substantial cut of beef over indirect heat, using wood smoke to impart flavor and tenderize the meat. This method transforms tougher, less expensive cuts into succulent, flavorful dishes suitable for family meals or gatherings. Example preparations include chuck roast, brisket, and round roast treated in this manner.
This culinary technique provides several advantages. It infuses the meat with a distinctive smoky taste, unavailable through conventional cooking methods. Low and slow cooking breaks down collagen, resulting in exceptional tenderness. Furthermore, this method can enhance the flavor profile of less desirable cuts, making them more palatable and economical. Historically, smoking served as a preservation method, but its appeal today lies in the enhanced flavor and texture it provides.