As the summer season rolls around, nothing beats the warm weather and gathering with family and friends around the grill. Although the thought of grilling often conjures up images of juicy steaks and burgers, let’s not forget the importance of having delicious side dishes to complement those meats. If you’re in search of tasty and unique smoked side dish ideas, then you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we will provide you with an array of options that will leave your guests impressed and satisfied.
Smoked Corn on the Cob
When it comes to achieving that perfect smoky flavor, nothing beats corn on the cob. Whether you’re looking for something sweet or something savory, there are various ways to smoke corn that can cater to all tastes. Here are some ideas to get you started:
Elote-style
Elote, or Mexican street-style corn, is a favorite among many. For this recipe, brush each ear of corn with mayonnaise and sprinkle with chili powder, smoked paprika, and cotija cheese. Once you’ve placed the corn on the smoker, leave it for about 20 minutes or until it’s cooked through, then remove it from the smoker and serve with a wedge of lime.
Butter and Herb
If you’re looking for something with a bit more flavor depth, try smoking corn on the cob with a mixture of melted butter, chopped thyme, garlic, and lemon zest. Wrap each ear in aluminum foil and smoke for 30-35 minutes or until the corn is tender.
Smoked Potato Salad
Potato salad is a classic side dish that can be served with any type of grilled meat. However, adding a smoky flavor to it can transform it from an ordinary side dish to something extraordinary. Here’s how:
Smoked Bacon and Cheddar
Add crispy bacon bits, sharp cheddar cheese, and a smoky flavor to your traditional potato salad for a new twist on an old classic. Smoke the bacon for 15 minutes, then chop it up, and mix it in with your traditional potato salad ingredients.
Smoked Red Potato Salad
Red potatoes are slightly sweeter and more tender than traditional potatoes, making them perfect for potato salad. Smoke the potatoes for an hour, then toss them with your favorite vinaigrette and fresh herbs.
Smoked Mac and Cheese
Mac and cheese lovers, unite! Adding a smoky flavor to this classic comfort food can take it to the next level. Impress your guests with these smoked mac and cheese dishes:
Smoked Gouda and Bacon
Combine smoked gouda cheese with creamy mac and cheese, and top it off with smoky bacon for a perfect combination of flavors. You can also smoke the bacon beforehand for that extra smoky flavor.
Smoked Jalapeno Mac and Cheese
Add a little kick to your smoked mac and cheese by using smoked jalapenos instead of regular ones. You can also smoke the cheese for a few minutes before adding it in for that extra layer of smokiness.
Concluding Thoughts on Smoked Side Dish Ideas
If you’re looking to take your backyard barbeque to the next level, consider adding one of these smoked side dishes to your menu. Each dish is sure to delight your guests and leave them asking for the recipe. Remember, smoking your side dishes is a great way to add a new flavor dimension to traditional dishes that could liven up any barbecue gathering.
FAQs about Smoked Side Dish Ideas
1. What types of meats pair well with smoked side dishes?
Almost any type of meat can pair well with smoked side dishes. Smoked side dishes work best as an accompaniment to grilled meats such as chicken, beef, pork, or lamb.
2. Do I need a special smoker to smoke side dishes?
Not necessarily. You can smoke side dishes on a traditional smoker or even a grill at home. However, using a smoker will ensure you get the best smoky flavor and a consistent cook.
3. Are there any vegetarian options for smoked side dishes?
Absolutely! Some examples of vegetarian options include smoked portobello mushrooms, smoked tofu, or a variety of smoked vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchinis, and eggplants.
With these smoked side dish ideas, you’re sure to impress your guests with new flavor profiles and elevate your backyard barbeque to the next level. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect smoked side dish.
