How to Smoke Cheese in a Masterbuilt Electric Smoker: A Journey Through Flavor and Technique

Smoking cheese in a Masterbuilt electric smoker is an art that combines precision, patience, and a touch of creativity. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or a curious beginner, this guide will walk you through the process, offering tips, tricks, and insights to elevate your cheese-smoking game. And while we’re at it, let’s ponder the philosophical implications of infusing dairy with smoke—does it make the cheese more self-aware, or simply more delicious?
Why Smoke Cheese?
Smoking cheese isn’t just about adding a smoky flavor; it’s about transforming a simple ingredient into something extraordinary. The process enhances the cheese’s natural flavors, adding depth and complexity that can’t be achieved through other methods. Plus, smoked cheese is incredibly versatile—it can be used in sandwiches, salads, charcuterie boards, or simply enjoyed on its own.
Choosing the Right Cheese
Not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to smoking. Hard and semi-hard cheeses like cheddar, gouda, mozzarella, and provolone are ideal because they hold up well under the smoking process. Soft cheeses like brie or camembert can be smoked, but they require more care to prevent melting. For beginners, starting with a block of cheddar or gouda is a safe bet.
Preparing Your Masterbuilt Electric Smoker
Before you start smoking, it’s essential to prepare your Masterbuilt electric smoker. Here’s how:
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Clean the Smoker: Ensure your smoker is clean and free from any residue from previous smoking sessions. This will prevent any unwanted flavors from transferring to your cheese.
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Set the Temperature: Cheese is delicate and can melt at high temperatures. Set your Masterbuilt electric smoker to the lowest possible temperature, ideally between 65°F and 85°F (18°C to 29°C). If your smoker doesn’t go that low, consider using a cold smoke attachment.
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Choose Your Wood Chips: The type of wood chips you use will significantly impact the flavor of your cheese. Mild woods like apple, cherry, or alder are excellent choices for cheese, as they impart a subtle, sweet smokiness. Avoid strong woods like hickory or mesquite, which can overpower the cheese’s natural flavors.
The Smoking Process
Now that your smoker is ready, it’s time to smoke the cheese. Follow these steps:
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Cut the Cheese: Cut your cheese into smaller blocks or wedges. This increases the surface area, allowing more smoke to penetrate the cheese. Aim for pieces that are about 1-2 inches thick.
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Place the Cheese in the Smoker: Arrange the cheese pieces on the smoker racks, ensuring they are not touching each other. This allows the smoke to circulate evenly around each piece.
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Start Smoking: Add your chosen wood chips to the smoker and start the smoking process. Depending on the intensity of smoke flavor you desire, smoke the cheese for 2-4 hours. Check the cheese periodically to ensure it’s not melting or becoming too soft.
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Monitor the Temperature: Keep a close eye on the smoker’s temperature. If it starts to rise above 85°F (29°C), consider opening the smoker door slightly to release some heat or using a cold smoke attachment.
Post-Smoking Steps
Once the smoking process is complete, it’s crucial to let the cheese rest and mellow. Here’s what to do:
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Wrap the Cheese: Remove the cheese from the smoker and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap. This helps the smoke flavor to distribute evenly throughout the cheese.
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Refrigerate: Place the wrapped cheese in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours, but preferably 1-2 weeks. This resting period allows the smoke flavor to mellow and integrate with the cheese’s natural flavors.
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Vacuum Seal (Optional): For longer storage, consider vacuum-sealing the cheese. This will preserve the smoky flavor and extend the cheese’s shelf life.
Serving and Enjoying Smoked Cheese
After the resting period, your smoked cheese is ready to be enjoyed. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Charcuterie Board: Add smoked cheese to a charcuterie board alongside cured meats, nuts, and fruits.
- Sandwiches: Use smoked cheese to elevate your sandwiches. Pair it with turkey, bacon, and avocado for a smoky, savory treat.
- Salads: Crumble smoked cheese over salads for an added layer of flavor.
- Snacking: Simply slice the cheese and enjoy it on its own or with crackers.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Cheese Melting: If your cheese starts to melt during the smoking process, it’s likely due to high temperatures. Ensure your smoker is set to the lowest possible temperature and monitor it closely.
- Over-Smoking: If the cheese tastes too smoky, reduce the smoking time in your next batch. Remember, you can always add more smoke, but you can’t take it away.
- Uneven Smoking: Ensure the cheese pieces are evenly spaced on the smoker racks to allow for consistent smoke exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I smoke soft cheeses like brie or camembert? A: Yes, but they require extra care. Smoke them for a shorter period and at a lower temperature to prevent melting.
Q: How long can I store smoked cheese? A: Properly wrapped and refrigerated, smoked cheese can last for several weeks. Vacuum-sealing can extend its shelf life even further.
Q: Can I use a different type of smoker? A: While this guide focuses on a Masterbuilt electric smoker, you can use other types of smokers. Just ensure you can maintain a low temperature suitable for smoking cheese.
Q: What other foods can I smoke in a Masterbuilt electric smoker? A: You can smoke a variety of foods, including meats, vegetables, nuts, and even cocktails. The possibilities are endless!
Q: Can I reuse the wood chips? A: It’s best to use fresh wood chips for each smoking session to ensure consistent flavor. Reused chips may not produce as much smoke or flavor.
Smoking cheese in a Masterbuilt electric smoker is a rewarding experience that yields delicious results. With the right preparation, technique, and a bit of patience, you can create smoked cheese that will impress your friends and family. So fire up your smoker, choose your favorite cheese, and embark on a smoky culinary adventure!