How to Use Liquid Smoke: 4 Ways to Use Liquid Smoke

Liquid smoke is a flavoring agent made by condensing the smoke produced by burned wood. Modern methods of liquid smoke production include filtration processes to remove impurities like soot and ash from the final product.

Today, liquid smoke can be found in most conventional supermarkets as a standalone ingredient. It’s also a key additive in many prepared foods found at grocery stores and restaurants including hot dogs, beef jerky, barbecue sauces, applewood-smoked bacon, and baked beans. It can show up in some surprising places, as well, such as in caramel candies.

Ernest H. Wright is credited with inventing liquid smoke in 1895. As a teenager, Wright observed a drop of black liquid running down a stovepipe. He would later realize that the smoke condensed after coming in contact with cold air. Wright burned hickory wood and ran the smoke through a condenser to catch the smoke in liquid form, creating the first bottle of liquid smoke. Wright's liquid smoke was initially used for food preservation, but it was soon discovered to be an ineffective preservative. However, it was an effective way to add a delicious smoke flavor to meats without the use of a smoker.

Using liquid smoke in your own home cooking is an easy way to get that smoked meat flavor without having to produce actual smoke. Most liquid smoke recipes call for no more than a few drops due to the highly concentrated flavor.

1. 1. Crockpot recipes: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to slow cooker recipes for quick and easy "smoked" brisket.
2. 2. Marinades: Make a quick marinade for cuts of pork, chicken, or beef using liquid smoke, paprika, chipotle, soy sauce, and maple syrup. Toss in your favorite protein and refrigerate overnight for a deliciously smoky main that will be ready for the grill or oven the next day.
3. 3. Brining: Add liquid smoke to your turkey brine and treat your guests to a holiday meal with a smoked flavor.
4. 4. Barbecue sauce: To make BBQ sauce smoky, mix in a couple of drops of liquid smoke to your recipe or a cup of pre-made sauce. For a Texas-style BBQ flavor, use mesquite liquid smoke.

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