Ultimate Guide to Seasoned Firewood for BBQs and Pizza Ovens

lewisjgarth
Aug 2
4 min read

When it comes to cooking outdoors, the type of firewood you use can make all the difference. Whether you are grilling up some juicy steaks or baking a delicious pizza, seasoned firewood is essential for achieving that perfect flavor. In this ultimate guide, we will explore everything you need to know about seasoned firewood, from the best types to use, to how to properly store and maintain it.

What is Seasoned Firewood?

Seasoned firewood is wood that has been dried out to reduce its moisture content. This process typically takes six months to a year, depending on the type of wood and the conditions in which it is stored. The goal of seasoning is to make the wood easier to ignite and to produce a cleaner, hotter burn.

Using seasoned firewood is crucial for BBQs and pizza ovens. Unseasoned wood, or "green" wood, contains a high level of moisture, which can lead to poor combustion. This results in excessive smoke, a lower heat output, and an unpleasant taste in your food.

Why Use Seasoned Firewood?

There are several reasons why seasoned firewood is the best choice for outdoor cooking:

Better Flavor: Seasoned wood imparts a rich, smoky flavor to your food. Different types of wood can add unique tastes, enhancing your BBQ or pizza experience.
Cleaner Burn: Seasoned wood burns more efficiently, producing less smoke and creosote. This is not only better for your food but also for your health and the environment.
Higher Heat Output: With lower moisture content, seasoned wood burns hotter, allowing you to reach the high temperatures needed for cooking.
Easier to Light: Seasoned wood ignites more easily, making it simpler to start your fire and maintain it throughout your cooking session.

Types of Seasoned Firewood

Not all firewood is created equal. Here are some of the best types of seasoned firewood for BBQs and pizza ovens:

1. Oak

Oak is a popular choice for BBQs due to its dense structure and long burn time. It produces a strong, smoky flavor that pairs well with meats.

2. Hickory

Hickory is another favorite among BBQ enthusiasts. It has a sweet, strong flavor that works well with pork and ribs.

3. Maple

Maple wood offers a milder flavor, making it a versatile option for various types of food. It burns evenly and produces a steady heat.

4. Cherry

Cherry wood adds a subtle sweetness to your food. It is excellent for smoking poultry and fish, giving them a unique taste.

5. Pecan

Pecan wood is similar to hickory but has a milder flavor. It is great for smoking beef and adds a rich, nutty taste.

How to Season Firewood

If you are looking to season your own firewood, here are some steps to follow:

Choose the Right Wood: Select hardwoods like oak, hickory, or maple for the best results.
Cut to Size: Cut the wood into manageable pieces, ideally around 16 inches long. This size is perfect for BBQs and pizza ovens.
Split the Wood: Splitting the wood helps it dry faster. Smaller pieces have more surface area, allowing moisture to escape more easily.
Stack Properly: Stack the wood in a way that allows air to circulate. Use a wood rack or pallets to keep it off the ground.
Cover the Top: Protect the wood from rain and snow by covering the top with a tarp or roof. Make sure the sides are open for airflow.
Wait: Allow the wood to season for at least six months. Check the moisture content with a moisture meter if you have one.

Storing Seasoned Firewood

Proper storage of seasoned firewood is essential to maintain its quality. Here are some tips:

Keep it Dry: Store your firewood in a dry place, away from moisture. A shed or covered area is ideal.
Elevate the Wood: Keep the wood off the ground to prevent it from absorbing moisture. Use pallets or a wood rack.
Avoid Stacking Too Tightly: Leave space between the logs to allow for airflow. This helps prevent mold and rot.
Check Regularly: Inspect your firewood for signs of mold or pests. Remove any affected pieces to keep the rest of your wood healthy.

Using Seasoned Firewood in BBQs

When using seasoned firewood for BBQs, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Preheat the Grill: Allow your grill to preheat before adding the wood. This helps create a consistent cooking temperature.
Add Wood Gradually: Start with a few pieces of seasoned wood and add more as needed. This prevents overwhelming the fire and ensures even cooking.
Monitor the Smoke: Look for thin, blue smoke, which indicates a clean burn. Thick, white smoke can indicate that the wood is not fully seasoned.

Using Seasoned Firewood in Pizza Ovens

For pizza ovens, seasoned firewood is crucial for achieving that perfect crust. Here are some tips:

Use Smaller Pieces: Smaller logs ignite faster and help maintain high temperatures in your pizza oven.
Create a Hot Bed of Coals: Start your fire and let it burn down to create a bed of hot coals. This provides the intense heat needed for cooking pizza.
Rotate Your Pizza: As the pizza cooks, rotate it to ensure even cooking. The intense heat from the firewood will help achieve that crispy crust.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When it comes to using seasoned firewood, there are some common mistakes to avoid:

Using Green Wood: Always use seasoned wood for the best results. Green wood can ruin the flavor of your food.
Overloading the Fire: Adding too much wood at once can smother the fire and lead to uneven cooking.
Neglecting Storage: Failing to store your firewood properly can lead to moisture buildup and spoilage.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right seasoned firewood can elevate your outdoor cooking experience. By understanding the types of wood available, how to season and store it, and the best practices for using it in BBQs and pizza ovens, you can ensure delicious results every time.

So, fire up that grill or pizza oven, and enjoy the rich flavors that seasoned firewood brings to your meals. Happy cooking!