Wild cherry charcoal

[tom in nc]

Anybody tried wild cherry tree charcoal? I've got a bunch of wild cherry trees, too many. They spread like crazy and I plan to cut down a few small ones. Just wondering.

 

[tenngun]

Had some wild cherry on my land in Arkansas. Mostly I let them go, as they provided wildlife food. Would harvest a few and would grill over it. Didn’t make charcoal just let it cook down to coals. Would throw a little on top for the smoke.

 

[Smokey Plainsman]

Had some wild cherry on my land in Arkansas. Mostly I let them go, as they provided wildlife food. Would harvest a few and would grill over it. Didn’t make charcoal just let it cook down to coals. Would throw a little on top for the smoke.

Did it make the meat taste or cherries?

 

[tenngun]

It’s a sweeter smoke then hickory. Closer to pecan or mesquite. To me better on beef or lamb then pork. Clashes with fish.
Real good on corn or asparagus

 

[1950DAVE]

Like Tenngun I smoke meat with it. I like it best with chicken or turkey. It's milder and sweeter than hickory. I don't use it green though. I tried that once and it left a faint bitter taste but that is true with other woods that are too freshly cut.
Dave

 

[Rod Man]

^ Yep +1 on the Chicken, Turkey and Lamb.

RM

 

[tom in nc]

I wasn't going to make it for cooking. Know what I mean?

 

[rich pierce]

I wasn't going to make it for cooking. Know what I mean?

You want very soft wood with very low ash content. This is why willow and alder are favorites

 

[sawyer04]

I wasn't going to make it for cooking. Know what I mean?

Actually, willow if it is available. Any of the willow family. Soft wood. I haven't tried it, but I know one who uses cotton wood. Probably not the best tasting but might suffice in a pinch.