HELP- RAIN Mid overnight cook!

[Wade G]

I started my 9 pound pork butt last night at 8PM. got temps stable and went to bed around midnight. Woke up at 4 and temps still at 245. Then woke up again at 8 to find- -RAIN. Just a drizzle, but steady.

The temps had dropped to 215. No sweat, I opened the vents back up, and got the temps back up and stable again.

HOWEVER, I went to flip the meat, and noticed a coating of little flecks of brown stuff. Looks like carmelized sugar all over one side of the meat. I am pretty sure the colder rain caused the carbon buildup (?) to loosen from the dome and get all over the meat?

What should I do? is the bark uneatable now?
Thanks for the help, and Happy Memorial Day!

 

[Ed Jones]

Wade, if you aren't done yet, try basting with apple juice. Maybe it will rinse off any schmutz on the outside of the meat. This is what I do to remove any ash from stiring the coals. If a spritz from a spray bottle won't remove it, then give it a GENTLE rinse by pouring a small stream over the meat.

 

[Doug Lax]

I think I may give a dusting of rub afterwords too. /infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

 

[Wade G]

Let's assume that it is on there pretty good, and it doesn't come off? IS the bark ruined? Inedible? or just not very tasty?

thanks

 

[Keri C]

Wade, I've had that happen before several times. No problems... just remove what you can with apple juice spray on the smoker, then when it's done and before you pull it, slide the edge of a knife along the top of the meat to help remove any other residue. You'll probably sprinkle a bit more rub when you pull it anyway, so don't worry about rubbing off the rub, so to speak.

The times that I've had that happen, the meat and bark were both fine. Remove what you can, then pull and enjoy! The knife will work pretty well, and your bark will be fine. This has been MY experience, anyway.

Keri C, still smokin on Tulsa Time
(and coming off a 2-brisket overnighter herself)

 

[Wade G]

Thanks to all. I feel better. Off to the store to get sauce makings!