Hickory or Mesquite for my Tri-tip?

[Kyle H.]

Unfortunately I don't have any Oak. So which would you recommend between Hickory or Mesquite? I know Mesquite isn't a very popular wood around these parts, but I want to use it for something!

 

[Tony C.]

i think mesquite is great for grilling. not so great for smoking. i add a few chunks to my coals or use only chunks for grilling steaks.

 

[Bill Gillespie]

I think I would go with Mesquite, it goes very well with beef. I use mesquite all the time when cooking any kind of beef.

 

[LarryR]

Whichever way you go, I'd back off the amount of wood you use vs. oak. In my opinion both have much stronger flavor than the oaks. Just my .02

 

[dsitterson]

I love Mesquite and it goes great with beef love the lump on the grill.

 

[Kyle H.]

I'll probably try to find a smaller piece of Mesquite to try on my WSM. Sadly, I only have a gas grill...

 

[D Larsen]

Kyle,

Not familiar with your model of gasser, but there's probably a way to do "indirect" ! Heck, even my $90 Aussie gasser allows you to fire only half of the burner

You don't HAVE to use your WSM for tri

I'd echo other comments, too....if you go with mesquite, go EASY on the amount ! It's a strong tasting smoke ! I like it...many others don't...but if you haven't cooked with it much before, you may not like it if it's too strong....

Dean...

 

[Bryan S]

Mesquite = Beef only IMO. I love Mesquite with all beef, from burgers to steaks, and everything in between. Save the Hickory for pork.