What Is A Pit Barrel Cooker ? What You Need To Know

Have you ever wondered what is a Pit Barrel Cooker? A Pit Barrel Cooker is a versatile outdoor cooking appliance that combines the functions of a smoker, grill, and barbecue. It is designed for charcoal cooking and is known for its ability to produce delicious, smoky flavors. The Pit Barrel Cooker is highly popular among barbecue enthusiasts and pit masters for its ease of use and consistent cooking results.

What is a Pit Barrel Cooker and how does it work?

Overview of Pit Barrel Cooker

The Pit Barrel Cooker, also known as PBC, is an ugly drum smoker that is made from a steel barrel. It is designed to hang the meat inside the cooker using stainless steel hooks and hanging rods. The cooker features a charcoal basket at the bottom of the barrel smoker, which holds the hot coals for cooking.  

It also has a vent to control the temperature during the cooking process. One of the key features of the Pit Barrel Cooker is its simplicity and ease of use. The design of the cooker allows for a set-it-and-forget-it cooking experience, as the hanging method ensures even heat distribution and eliminates the need for constant flipping or monitoring of the food.

The Pit Barrel Smoker is known for its Versatility

The Pit Barrel Cooker is versatile and can be used for a variety of cooking techniques, including smoking, grilling, and barbecuing. It is capable of cooking large amounts of food, with the ability to hang multiple racks of ribs, chicken, or other cuts of meat. The cooker is highly efficient, as it retains heat and uses charcoal efficiently, resulting in a longer burn time and less fuel consumption. It is also designed to create a convection effect, which helps to cook the food evenly and quickly.

Perfectly Cooked Food Every time

The Pit Barrel Cooker has gained popularity among both experienced pitmasters and amateur cooks due to its consistent results and user-friendly design. It has a loyal following and is known for producing tender, juicy meat with a distinct smoky flavor.

In addition to its cooking capabilities, the Pit Barrel Cooker is also known for its durability and construction. It is made from heavy-duty steel and is designed to withstand high temperatures and harsh weather conditions. The cooker comes with a 10-year warranty, giving users peace of mind in their investment.

Overall, the Pit Barrel Cooker is a versatile, user-friendly, and durable drum smoker that is capable of producing deliciously smoked and grilled meals. Whether you are a seasoned cook or a beginner, the Pit Barrel Cooker is a great option for achieving great results with minimal effort. 

what temperature does the pit barrel cooker cook at

What is a Pit Barrel Cooker and How Does it Function?

The Pit Barrel Cooker, often referred to simply as the "Pit Barrel, PBC, even PBX" is one of the more unique cookers on the market. It has gained a devoted following among barbecue aficionados. But what is a Pit Barrel Cooker exactly, and how does it work?

The Pit Barrel Cooker is a versatile outdoor cooking device that operates on a "set it and forget it" principle, making it exceptionally user-friendly. It's renowned for its ability to produce mouthwatering, tender, and flavorful barbecue dishes with minimal effort.

What is a Pit Barrel Cooker? Is it Charcoal Grill or Charcoal Smoker?

So, how does a Pit Barrel Cooker function? It all starts with the charcoal. Once the charcoal is expertly lit and burned evenly, the meat is hung on the hooks provided by the cooker(the Pit Barrel box includes 8 hooks). These hooks are a distinctive feature of the Pit Barrel Cooker, allowing you to suspend the meat, similar to the way it's done in traditional barrel-style smokers.

After placing the meat, you simply close the lid of the Pit Barrel Cooker, and that's when the magic happens. The Pit Barrel Cooker is ingeniously designed to create a convection-like cooking environment within its barrel-shaped chamber. This design encourages the hot air to naturally circulate around the meat, ensuring even cooking from all sides. The result is perfectly cooked barbecue dishes with a delightful char on the outside.

What sets the Pit Barrel Cooker apart is its ability to harness this convection effect to smoke meat. It ensures that every bite of your barbecue creation is infused with flavor and tenderness. The simplicity of the process makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced grillmasters.

Additionally, the Pit Barrel Cooker comes equipped with a grill grate, which allows for direct heat cooking when desired. This added versatility means you can grill and sear your favorite foods to perfection, further expanding the Pit Barrel Cooker's culinary possibilities.

In conclusion, the Pit Barrel Cooker, often simply referred to as the "Pit Barrel," is a versatile outdoor cooking device that operates on the "set it and forget it" principle. Its unique design creates a convection-like cooking environment, resulting in even cooking and a delectable char on your dishes. This innovative cooker is beloved by barbecue enthusiasts for its ability to produce exceptional, flavorful meals with ease.

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What are the advantages of using a Pit Barrel Cooker(PBC)?

There are several advantages to using a Pit Barrel Cooker:

  • Versatile - The Pit Barrel Cooker can be used as a smoker, grill, and barbecue, giving you the flexibility to cook a variety of dishes.
  • Easy to use - The "set it and forget it" smoked design makes cooking on the Pit Barrel Cooker a breeze. You don't have to constantly monitor the temperature or adjust the heat.
  • Produces delicious flavors - The Pit Barrel Cooker is known for producing a distinct smoky flavor in the meat, thanks to its charcoal cooking method.
  • Portable - The compact design of the Pit Barrel Cooker makes it easy to transport and use for outdoor cooking adventures.
  • Cost-effective - The Pit Barrel Cooker is an affordable option compared to other smokers and grills on the market.
what is a pit barrel cooker 3

Why should you choose a Pit Barrel Cooker?

What is a Pit Barrel Cooker, and why should you choose it? Let's delve into the advantages of this exceptional cooking apparatus. When comparing the Pit Barrel Cooker with other smokers, it becomes evident that this unique cooker offers numerous benefits.

Unlike traditional smokers that demand constant temperature monitoring and adjustments, the Pit Barrel Cooker stands out with its ability to ensure even heat distribution, guaranteeing consistent cooking results. Additionally, it eliminates the need for complex setups or water pans, making it exceptionally user-friendly, especially for those new to smoking.

Benefits of Opting for a Pit Barrel Cooker Over Conventional Grills

Compared to traditional grills, the Pit Barrel Cooker boasts several advantages. First and foremost, its hanging cooking method maximizes space efficiency and accommodates larger cuts of meat, such as briskets and turkeys. Furthermore, the charcoal cooking method imparts a distinctive smoky flavor that sets it apart from gas grills. Lastly, the Pit Barrel Cooker's versatility as a smoker, grill, and barbecue makes it a well-rounded choice for outdoor culinary adventures.

Exploring the Outstanding Features of the Pit Barrel Cooker

Now, let's take a closer look at the remarkable features that enhance the Pit Barrel Cooker's cooking experience. This exceptional cooker includes a standard grill grate, an 18.5-inch porcelain-coated cooking grate, and a charcoal basket. Moreover, it comes equipped with eight stainless steel hooks and two hanging rods, allowing you to conveniently hang multiple racks of ribs or various cuts of meat. The Pit Barrel Cooker, often referred to as the "PBC," is crafted from durable materials, including stainless steel, and features a porcelain enamel finish, ensuring longevity and unwavering performance.

In summary, a Pit Barrel Cooker is more than just a smoker; it's a versatile outdoor cooking solution that simplifies the process and elevates your culinary creations to a whole new level.

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How to use a Pit Barrel Cooker?

Step-by-step guide to using the PBC

Operating a Pit Barrel Cooker is straightforward. 

Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1

Start by filling a charcoal chimney along with the charcoal basket and light the charcoal.

Step 2

Once the charcoal has turned gray, place the lit coals from the charcoal chimney on top of the charcoal that is in the charcoal basket.

Step 3

Place the charcoal basket and wood chunks at the bottom of the cooker.

Step 4

Hang the meat on the stainless steel hooks or place it on the grill grate.

Step 5

Place the charcoal basket and wood chunks at the bottom of the cooker.

Step 6

Close the lid and adjust the vent to control the temperature.

Step 7

Cook the meat until it reaches the desired internal temperature.

Step 8

Remove the meat from the Pit Barrel Cooker and let it rest before serving.

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What is a Pit Barrel Cooker: Tips and tricks

Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience with a Pit Barrel Cooker:

  • Use a rub or marinade to add flavor to the meat before cooking.
  • Experiment with different wood chips or chunks to achieve different smoky flavors.
  • Avoid opening the lid frequently, as it can cause fluctuations in temperature and extend the cooking time.
  • Consider using a drip pan to catch any drippings and prevent flare-ups.
  • Let the meat rest after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute and enhance the flavor.
pit barrel cooker recipes

What is a Pit Barrel Cooker: Common mistakes to avoid

While using a Pit Barrel Cooker, it's important to avoid the following mistakes:

  • Avoid overloading the cooker with too much meat, which can hinder airflow and result in uneven cooking.
  • Prevent opening the lid too frequently, as it can cause temperature fluctuations and increase cooking time.
  • Ensure proper seasoning or marination of the meat to avoid bland flavors.
  • Monitor the internal temperature of the meat to prevent undercooked or overcooked dishes.
  • Allow the meat to rest after cooking to avoid dryness.
pit barrel cooker recipes 2

What is a Pit Barrel Cooker and What can you cook on it?

Recipes for delicious ribs on the Pit Barrel Cooker

The Pit Barrel Cooker is perfect for cooking delicious ribs. Here's a simple recipe to try:

Ingredients:

  • Rack of ribs
  • Rub of your choice

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the ribs by removing the membrane from the back of the rack.
  2. Apply a generous amount of rub to the ribs, ensuring it covers all sides.
  3. Hang the ribs on the stainless steel hooks inside the Pit Barrel Cooker. Make sure to hang your meat in the center of the cooker. 
  4. Cook the ribs at a temperature of around 275°F for approximately 3-4 hours, or until they reach your desired tenderness.
  5. Remove the ribs from the Pit Barrel Cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
pit barrel cooker recipes 3

What is a Pit Barrel Cooker and How to Smoke a Pork Butt on It

Smoking a pork butt on the Pit Barrel Cooker is a great way to achieve tender and flavorful pulled pork. Here's a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

  • Pork butt
  • Rub of your choice

Instructions:

  1. Apply a generous amount of rub to the pork butt, Make sure to season all sides including the bottom of the meat.
  2. Hang the pork butt using the stainless steel hooks on the hanging rods at the top of the barrel.
  3. Cook the pork butt at a temperature of around 275°F for approximately 1.5 hours per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F.
  4. Remove the pork butt from the Pit Barrel Cooker and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before pulling it apart.
  5. Serve the pulled pork on buns with your favorite barbecue sauce.
what temperature does the pit barrel cooker cook at 4

What is a Pit Barrel Cooker: Cooking techniques

The Pit Barrel Cooker can be used for a variety of cooking techniques to create mouthwatering barbecue dishes. Here are some essential techniques:

  • Low and slow smoking: Cooking meat at a low temperature for a long period of time allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.
  • Direct grilling: By placing the meat directly over the hot coals, you can achieve a seared and caramelized exterior.
  • Indirect grilling: Placing the meat away from the heat source allows for a more gentle and even cooking, perfect for larger cuts of meat.
  • Reverse searing: This technique involves cooking the meat at a low temperature in the Pit Barrel Cooker to gradually bring it to the desired internal temperature, then finishing it off with a quick sear over direct heat.
what is a pit barrel cooker

What is a Pit Barrel Cooker?: What You Need To Know Conclusion:

So, what is a Pit Barrel Cooker, and why should you consider using one? A Pit Barrel Cooker is not just a cooking device; it's your gateway to achieving barbecue excellence with ease. Its unique design simplifies the art of outdoor cooking, making it accessible to both beginners and seasoned pitmasters.

set it and forget it smoker design

When compared to other smokers, the Pit Barrel Cooker boasts several advantages. Its "set it and forget it" philosophy eliminates the need for constant temperature monitoring and adjustments. The hanging method of cooking ensures even heat distribution and a consistent flow of smoky flavor, creating perfectly cooked food every time.

Compared to traditional offset smokers, the Pit Barrel Cooker offers benefits like space efficiency, the ability to cook larger cuts of meat, and that irresistible smoky flavor infusion. It's a versatile outdoor cooking appliance that excels at smoking, grilling, and barbecuing, expanding your culinary horizons.

The Pit Barrel Cooker's outstanding features, including stainless steel hooks, hanging rods, and durable construction, ensure a long-lasting performance that you can rely on. Plus, it's backed by a 10-year warranty, giving you peace of mind in your investment. The Pit Barrel Cooker Co truly provides you with everything you need to get started.

what is a Pit Barrel Cooker synopsis?

In summary, the Pit Barrel Cooker is your ticket to outdoor cooking greatness. Whether you're a barbecue enthusiast or a pitmaster in training, this versatile, user-friendly, and durable drum smoker will elevate your culinary creations to new heights. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to embark on a flavorful journey with the Pit Barrel Cooker and unlock a world of delicious possibilities.

Time to get cooking. Happy grilling!

Make sure to comeback to SmokyBeginnings.com as we are continuously adding new recipes and tips to the site.


what is a pit barrel cooker FAQ

Q: What is a Pit Barrel Cooker?

A: So What is a Pit Barrel Cooker? Well, the Pit Barrel Cooker (PBC) is a smoker that combines the best qualities of both a grill and a smoker. It is a barrel-shaped cooker that uses charcoal and wood to produce delicious and flavorful barbecued food.

Q: How does the Pit Barrel Cooker work?

A: The Pit Barrel Cooker operates on the principle of convection cooking. It allows hot air to flow evenly around the meat, ensuring even cooking and a perfect smoke flavor. The meat is hung vertically from stainless steel hooks, allowing the fat to baste the meat as it cooks.

Q: Can I use the Pit Barrel Cooker for grilling too?

A: Absolutely! The Pit Barrel Cooker can be used as both a smoker and a grill. You can use it to smoke ribs, brisket, pork butt, and other cuts of meat, and you can also grill burgers, steaks, and vegetables on the grate.

Q: Is the Pit Barrel Cooker easy to use?

A: Yes, the Pit Barrel Cooker is designed to be user-friendly. It is easy to assemble, and once you have it set up, it requires very little maintenance. The temperature is controlled by adjusting the airflow through the bottom and top vents.

Q: How does the Pit Barrel Cooker compare to other smokers on the market?

A: The Pit Barrel Cooker has gained a reputation as one of the best smokers on the market. Its unique design and functionality set it apart from other smokers. It is known for producing juicy and tender meat with a perfect smoky flavor.

Q: What are the advantages of using the Pit Barrel Cooker?

A: The Pit Barrel Cooker offers several advantages. It is versatile, allowing you to smoke a variety of meats and grill a wide range of foods. It is portable, making it great for tailgating and camping. It is also durable and built to last. It also uses the hanger method of BBQ cooking.

Q: Can I hang meat in the Pit Barrel Cooker?

A: Yes, one of the unique features of the Pit Barrel Cooker is that it has 8 stainless steel hooks for hanging meat. You can hang ribs, chicken, pork butt, and other cuts of meat vertically, allowing the fat to baste the meat as it cooks.

Q: Does the Pit Barrel Cooker come with any additional accessories?

A: Yes, the Pit Barrel Cooker comes with 2 hanging rods, 8 hooks, a lid, and a charcoal basket. There are a plethora of other accessories that make it easier to hang meat and cook a variety of foods. You can find accessories such as thermometers, turkey hanger,  and skewers on Amazon and the Pit Barrel Cooker Co. website.

Q: Can I use the Pit Barrel Cooker for slow cooking?

A: Absolutely! The Pit Barrel Cooker is perfect for slow cooking. Its design and functionality ensure that the meat cooks low and slow, resulting in tender and flavorful dishes.

Q: Where can I purchase a Pit Barrel Cooker?

A: The Pit Barrel Cooker can be purchased directly from the official website of Pit Barrel® Cooker Co. They offer various models, accessories, and bundle options to choose from. The PBC is also sold on Amazon 

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About the author 

CJ Ferrara

CJ Ferrara is a BBQ enthusiast, who shares his passion for grilling and smoking meats with the readers of Smoky Beginnings. When he isn't grilling, smoking meat, or writing BBQ-focused articles you can catch him spending time with his family and enjoying a sporting event.


Find out more about CJ on our About Us page


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