How to Smoke

Bison Roasts

Smoking whole roasts

  • Select a Good Cut: Choose a well-marbled and tender cut of bison roast, such as the chuck roast or tenderloin. These cuts benefit from slow smoking, which helps break down the connective tissues and renders the meat tender and flavorful.
  • Dry Brining: Dry brining the roast with kosher salt the night before smoking helps enhance the meat's natural flavor and moisture retention. Apply the salt liberally, wrap the roast in plastic wrap, and refrigerate it overnight.
  • Low and Slow: Smoking a whole bison roast requires low and slow cooking. Set your smoker to a temperature between 225°F to 250°F (107°C to 121°C). Maintain this temperature throughout the smoking process to ensure a tender and juicy result.
  • Use Flavorful Wood: Choose wood chips or chunks that complement the bison's flavor. Hickory, oak, or cherry wood can add a delightful smokiness to the meat without overpowering it.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the roast. The ideal temperature for medium-rare doneness is around 130°F to 135°F (54°C to 57°C), and for medium, it's around 140°F to 145°F (60°C to 63°C). Avoid overcooking the roast to preserve its tenderness.
  • Resting Period: Once the roast reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for about 15 to 20 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful roast.
Smoking Burnt ends

  • Cubing the Roast: Start by smoking a whole bison roast following the same low and slow technique mentioned above. Once the roast reaches medium-rare doneness, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, cut the roast into bite-sized cubes, typically around 1 to 1.5 inches in size.
  • Seasoning: Toss the cubed bison roast with your favorite BBQ rub or seasoning. The rub adds additional flavor and enhances the smoky taste of the burnt ends.
  • Return to the Smoker: Place the seasoned bison cubes back into the smoker on a wire rack or aluminum foil tray. Continue smoking at the same low temperature for an additional 1 to 2 hours. This allows the cubes to caramelize and develop a delectable bark.
  • Checking Doneness: Keep an eye on the burnt ends to ensure they don't overcook. When they develop a nice bark and are tender to your liking, they are ready to be taken off the smoker.
  • Serving: Serve the bison burnt ends as a delightful and flavorful appetizer or as a main dish alongside your favorite BBQ sauce.
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By following these tips, you can create tender and smoky bison roasts and delicious burnt ends, perfect for impressing your guests or treating yourself to a delightful culinary experience. Enjoy your smoked bison creations!