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Best Wood Chips For Ribs (2024 Updated)

If you're looking for a way to enhance the flavor of your ribs, wood chips are an excellent option to consider. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner griller, using wood chips for ribs can add a new dimension of flavor and aroma to your dish.

Before purchasing wood chips, there are a few factors to consider. First, think about what type of wood you want to use. Different types of wood can bring out different flavors in your ribs. For example, hickory wood chips may provide a smoky taste, while apple wood chips may offer a sweet and fruity flavor profile.

Another important factor to consider is the size of the wood chips. Bigger wood chips may burn more slowly and release smoke for a longer period, while smaller wood chips may burn out quickly. You also want to make sure that the wood chips are well seasoned and free of any additives or chemicals.

If you're new to using wood chips for ribs, you may be wondering how to use them. How much wood chips should you use? Do you soak them in water or not? How do you prevent flare-ups on your grill? These are all valid questions that we will dive deeper into in future articles, so be sure to stay tuned!

10 Best Wood Chips For Ribs

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for adding flavor to various kinds of food including poultry, ribs, and vegetables through smoking.
2
Ideal for enhancing the flavor of meat in grilling and smoking, particularly beef, pork, ribs, brisket, and steak.
3
Ideal for adding smoky flavor to meat and other food on a grill or smoker.
4
This product is ideal for adding smoky and fruity flavor to food on smokers, gas or electric grills.
5
Ideal for enhancing the smoky flavor in BBQ and grilling meat, fish and vegetables.
6
It is ideal for those who want delicious fully cooked pork ribs with signature sauce without the hassle of cooking.
7
The product is ideal for use as wood logs for grills and smokers, specifically for cooking mini pizzas.
8
The product is ideal for adding smokey flavor to grilled meat and vegetables.
9
The product is ideal for those who enjoy a variety of pork products such as bacon and ribs.
10
Ideal for adding spicy flavor to various meats, vegetables, and seafood when grilling or barbecuing.
It is ideal for adding flavor to various kinds of food including poultry, ribs, and vegetables through smoking.
Ideal for enhancing the flavor of meat in grilling and smoking, particularly beef, pork, ribs, brisket, and steak.
Ideal for adding smoky flavor to meat and other food on a grill or smoker.
This product is ideal for adding smoky and fruity flavor to food on smokers, gas or electric grills.
Ideal for enhancing the smoky flavor in BBQ and grilling meat, fish and vegetables.
It is ideal for those who want delicious fully cooked pork ribs with signature sauce without the hassle of cooking.
The product is ideal for use as wood logs for grills and smokers, specifically for cooking mini pizzas.
The product is ideal for adding smokey flavor to grilled meat and vegetables.
The product is ideal for those who enjoy a variety of pork products such as bacon and ribs.
Ideal for adding spicy flavor to various meats, vegetables, and seafood when grilling or barbecuing.

1. Cherry Smoke – 20lb Bulk Box

The Bulk 20 Pound Box of Smoking Chips is a must-have for smoking enthusiasts who take their meat seriously. These chips are kiln-dried, ensuring proven performance and an even burn. Unlike other smoking chips in the market that can contain large amounts of mold, these chips are mold-free, ensuring safe and healthy smoking experience.

These versatile chips can be used with electric smokers, charcoal grills, and gas grills, providing you with a wide range of options to choose from. Whether you are smoking Poultry, Chicken, Fish, Ribs, Beef or more, these smoking chips will help you add a sweet flavor to your meat, making it more delicious and flavorful.

These smoking chips are sustainably produced in the Pacific Northwest and are FSC certified. This means that the chips are produced in an environmentally responsible manner, ensuring that you can enjoy your meat without having to worry about harming the environment.

Overall, the Bulk 20 Pound Box of Smoking Chips is a great investment for smoking enthusiasts who want to take their smoking game to the next level. With its proven performance, versatile use, and sweet flavor, this smoking chip box is a must-have for anyone who loves smoking meat.

Pros

  • Kiln-dried for proven performance and an even burn
  • Versatile, can be used with electric smokers, charcoal grills and gas grills
  • Sweet flavor, great for smoking a variety of meats
  • Sustainably produced in the Pacific Northwest, FSC Certified

2. Mijig Western Bbq Premium‎ Wood Smoking Chips Variety (Pack Of 4) Bundled With Progrilla Smoker Box

Introducing the Variety 4 Western Premium BBQ Smoking Chips, the perfect addition to your grilling and smoking routine. This pack comes with four different flavors, including apple, cherry, hickory, and mesquite, each providing a unique smoky taste to your food. You can use these chips with charcoal, gas, or ceramic grills, griddles, kettle grills, and even electric smokers.

Each bag contains 180 cubic inches of smoking chips, which is more than enough to smoke your favorite meats for your family and friends. You can use the flavors separately or mix them together to create your personalized flavor. Whether you're smoking hamburgers, whole chicken, BBQ smoked wings, baby back or spare ribs, this pack has got you covered.

This pack also includes a ProGrilla smoker box that is made of high-quality stainless steel and comes with a removable lid. The smoker box is durable and can withstand high temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor cooking. The removable lid allows you to add more chips easily without having to open the grill or smoker. You can also clean the smoker box easily after use, ensuring that it will last for years to come.

Overall, the Variety 4 Western Premium BBQ Smoking Chips pack is a must-have for anyone who loves to grill or smoke meat. With its variety of flavors and versatile usage, you can experiment with different combinations and create your unique taste. The ProGrilla smoker box is an added bonus, providing you with a convenient way to smoke your food without any hassle.

Pros

  • Comes with four different flavors for a unique smoky taste
  • Can be used with various grilling and smoking equipment
  • Includes 180 cubic inches of smoking chips per bag
  • Comes with a ProGrilla smoker box made of high-quality stainless steel
  • The smoker box has a removable lid for easy cleaning and adding more chips

Cons

  • – None

3. Hardwood Hickory Smoker Chips – Smoky Flavor

Enhance the flavor of your grilled dishes with Mr. Bar-B-Q's premium 100% hardwood chips. Made from natural hickory wood, these smoking chips offer a smoky and hearty flavor that can be enjoyed with any heat source. The 1.6-pound bag provides enough chips for multiple cooking sessions. These chips are perfect for smoking beef, fish, poultry, pork, ribs, veggies, lamb, and more!

Mr. Bar-B-Q's smoking chips are made from 100% hardwood, without any added chemicals, making them completely natural. When using the Hickory Smoking Chips, you can be sure that your food will take on a rich, smoky flavor that is both delicious and authentic. These chips work well with smokers, charcoal grills, gas grills, and electric grills. Whether cooking low and slow or hot and fast, these smoking chips will provide the perfect amount of smoke flavor to your dishes.

With Mr. Bar-B-Q's Hickory Smoking Chips, you can enjoy the taste of natural wood smoke on your favorite dishes without any added chemicals. These chips work with any heat source, making them versatile and convenient. The 1.6-pound bag provides enough chips to last for multiple cooking sessions. These chips are perfect for smoking a variety of meats and vegetables, adding a delicious smoky flavor that is sure to impress.

Pros

  • Made from 100% natural hickory wood chips
  • Versatile and can be used with any heat source
  • 1.6-pound bag provides enough chips for multiple cooking sessions
  • Great for smoking beef, fish, poultry, pork, ribs, veggies, lamb, and more

4. Maclean's Outdoor Hickory Wood Bbq Smoking Chips

Experience the unique taste of hickory wood smoking chips with these authentic chips. These chips are perfect for gas and charcoal grills and smokers, giving your food a delicious smoky flavor without the need for sauces. The hickory wood overtones create a one-of-a-kind smoking experience, perfect for any outdoor cooking enthusiast.

These smoking chips are made from high-quality hickory wood, ensuring that your food is infused with a rich, natural flavor. They are low in calories, making them a great alternative to traditional flavorings that are high in fat and sugar. Simply add the chips to your grill or smoker and let them work their magic.

In addition to their great taste, these hickory wood smoking chips are also easy to use. They come in a convenient, resealable bag that keeps them fresh between uses. The chips are also easy to store, taking up minimal space in your pantry or outdoor cooking area.

Overall, these authentic hickory wood smoking chips are a must-have for any outdoor cooking enthusiast. With their unique flavor and easy-to-use design, they are perfect for adding a delicious smoky taste to your favorite meats, vegetables, and more.

Pros

  • Adds a unique hickory wood flavor to food
  • Low calorie alternative to traditional flavorings
  • Convenient and easy to use
  • Resealable bag keeps chips fresh

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those who do not enjoy a smoky flavor

5. Burgers' Smokehouse Fully Cooked Pork Ribs (Signature Sauced Baby Backs, Eight Half Slabs)

Experience the perfect blend of high-quality ingredients and authentic smoking technique with these delectable pork ribs. The ribs are seasoned with a delicious dry rub and cured to perfection, delivering a rich and bold flavor. Slow-smoked over real hickory wood chips, these ribs are fully cooked for your convenience.

Each slab of our ribs weighs between 1.25 to 2.75 lbs, and serves 2-3 people. You can easily reheat them in the oven, microwave, or on the grill without sacrificing quality. Whether you're hosting a party or craving a hearty meal, these ribs are sure to satisfy your taste buds.

These ribs are available in two different varieties – Dry Rubbed and Sauced Ribs. The Dry Rubbed ribs are seasoned to perfection, while the Sauced Ribs are smothered in a mouth-watering sauce. Both varieties are made to be heated quickly, so you can enjoy a delicious meal in no time. Treat yourself to these succulent pork ribs and enjoy an authentic BBQ experience in the comfort of your own home.

Pros

  • Made with high-quality ingredients
  • Slow-smoked over real hickory wood chips for authentic flavor
  • Fully cooked for convenience
  • Quick and easy to reheat in the oven, microwave, or on the grill
  • Available in two delicious varieties – Dry Rubbed and Sauced Ribs
  • Generous serving size – each slab serves 2-3 people

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those with dietary restrictions
  • – Some customers may prefer to make their own sauce for more personalized flavor

6. Mccormick Grill Mates Applewood Rub, 6 Oz

Enhance the flavor of your grilled meals with this smoky, savory, and slightly sweet rub, perfect for pork, chicken, beef, or seafood. Made with a blend of garlic, peppers, and applewood smoke, this grilling seasoning is America’s number one choice for a reason. McCormick uses only the finest herbs and spices to create a flavor-loaded crust that locks in savory smokiness and leaves your taste buds craving more. The dual flip-cap bottle allows you to shake or sprinkle the flavor as needed, while the wide mouth makes it easy to measure out the perfect amount with a spoon. To achieve epic results, generously coat your meat with the rub before grilling.

Bring the flavor of your favorite restaurant to your backyard with this legendary grilling seasoning. McCormick's smoky, savory, and slightly sweet rub is the secret to achieving a perfect grilled meal every time. Made with a blend of garlic, peppers, and applewood smoke, this rub is the number one choice of grilling enthusiasts across America. The dual flip-cap bottle allows you to easily shake or sprinkle the seasoning, while the wide mouth makes it simple to measure out the perfect amount. Whether you're grilling pork, chicken, beef, or seafood, this rub is sure to impress. For the best results, generously coat your meat with the rub before grilling, locking in the smoky, savory flavor that will have your taste buds begging for more.

Take your grilling game to the next level with this smoky, savory, and slightly sweet rub from McCormick. Made with a blend of garlic, peppers, and applewood smoke, this grilling seasoning is the number one choice of grill masters across America. The dual flip-cap bottle allows you to easily shake or sprinkle the flavor, while the wide mouth makes it simple to measure out the perfect amount with a spoon. This rub is the secret to achieving a legendary grilled meal, with a flavor-loaded crust that locks in the smoky goodness and leaves your meat perfectly seasoned. Whether you're grilling pork, chicken, beef, or seafood, this rub is the perfect choice. To achieve epic results, generously coat your meat with the rub before grilling, and watch as your taste buds are transported to a world of savory deliciousness.

Pros

  • Made with the finest herbs and spices
  • Dual flip-cap bottle for easy use
  • Wide mouth for measuring spoon
  • Locks in smoky, savory flavor
  • Perfect for pork, chicken, beef, or seafood

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those who do not enjoy smoky or savory flavors
  • – May not be suitable for those with garlic or pepper allergies

7. Burgers' Smokehouse Colossal Bacon & Rib Sampler

Indulge in the Smokemaster's favorite assortment of half slabs of their best pork ribs with this sampler pack. The ribs are seasoned, dry-cured with high-quality ingredients, and slow-smoked to perfection before being fully cooked. Some of the ribs are coated in gourmet BBQ sauce before being packed and shipped to your doorstep. With the option to reheat in the oven, microwave, or grill, you can have delicious smokehouse-quality food within minutes. Along with the ribs, this sampler also includes dry-cured and smoked bacons, which are cured with simple, high-quality ingredients and aged for flavor. The bacons are slow-smoked over real applewood or hickory wood chips for a unique twist in each flavor. All of the items in this sampler are expertly packaged for safe delivery. Whether you want to enjoy these delicious meats yourself or send them as a gourmet gift, this sampler pack is perfect for any bacon or rib lover.

The Smokemaster's sampler pack includes five half slabs of the best pork ribs, each seasoned and slow-smoked to perfection. The ribs are dry-cured with high-quality ingredients and some are coated in gourmet BBQ sauce before being packed and shipped. In addition to the ribs, the sampler pack also features expertly smoked bacons that are cured with simple ingredients and slow-smoked over real applewood or hickory wood chips. With a variety of unique flavors, this sampler pack is perfect for anyone who loves ribs or bacon.

Experience the best of the Smokemaster's delicious pork ribs with this sampler pack. Each half slab is seasoned, dry-cured with high-quality ingredients, slow-smoked, and fully cooked to perfection. Some of the ribs are even coated in gourmet BBQ sauce before being packed and shipped. Along with the ribs, this sampler pack also features expertly smoked bacons that are cured with simple ingredients and slow-smoked over real applewood or hickory wood chips. With a variety of flavors, this sampler pack is perfect for anyone who loves ribs or bacon. Plus, all items are expertly packaged for safe delivery.

Pros

  • Sampler pack includes a variety of flavors for both ribs and bacon
  • Ribs are seasoned, dry-cured, slow-smoked, and fully cooked
  • Option to reheat in oven, microwave, or grill for quick and easy preparation
  • Bacons are cured with simple, high-quality ingredients and slow-smoked over real wood chips
  • Expertly packaged for safe delivery

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for those who do not eat pork
  • – Some may prefer to cook their own ribs instead of reheating pre-cooked ones

8. Spice Up Your Bbq With Rock The Rub

The Flavor Over Heat rub is the perfect combination of sweet and mild cayenne kick, which enhances the flavor of your meat or vegetables rather than detracting from it. This rub can be used on a variety of meats such as steak, tenderloin, chops, filet, shrimp, poultry, pork butt, or shoulder, and seafood. Moreover, it can also be used on vegetables like brussel sprouts to add a delicious flavor. To use, simply dust all surfaces of your meat or vegetables liberally with the rub and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to tenderize before cooking to your liking. This rub is great for BBQ, slow-cooking, grilling, smoking, frying, or any cooking method of your choice. Additionally, it can also be used as a seasoning for popcorn, salads, homemade potato chips, roasted nuts, and as an Aoli to spread on sandwiches. This rub is made with all-natural spices which are gluten-free and non-GMO, making it safe and healthy for consumption. It has lower salt and sodium content than most dry rub seasonings.

Pros

  • Sweet and mild cayenne kick enhances the flavor of meat and vegetables
  • Can be used on a variety of meats and vegetables
  • Great for BBQ, slow-cooking, grilling, smoking, frying, or any cooking method of your choice
  • Can also be used as a seasoning for popcorn, salads, homemade potato chips, roasted nuts, and as an Aoli to spread on sandwiches
  • Made with all-natural spices which are gluten-free and non-GMO
  • Low salt and sodium content

Best Wood Chips For Ribs FAQs

Can wood chips be mixed to create unique flavor profiles for smoking ribs?

Yes, wood chips can absolutely be mixed to create unique flavor profiles for smoking ribs. In fact, many experienced pitmasters and BBQ enthusiasts often blend different types of wood chips to achieve the desired flavor and aroma for their smoked meats. The type of wood used for smoking can make a significant impact on the final taste of the ribs, and mixing different woods can add layers of complexity to the flavor profile.

Some popular wood chips for smoking ribs include hickory, apple, cherry, mesquite, and oak. Each wood has its unique flavor and aroma, ranging from sweet and fruity to strong and smoky. Blending different woods can create a balanced and nuanced flavor that complements the meat and adds depth to the overall taste.

However, it's important to note that not all wood chips are created equal. Different brands and sources of wood chips can have varying qualities, so it's essential to choose high-quality, food-grade wood chips for smoking. Also, be mindful of not over-smoking the ribs, as too much smoke can overpower the meat's natural flavor.

Can wood chips be reused for smoking ribs?

Yes, wood chips can be reused for smoking ribs, but it depends on the condition of the wood chips. If the wood chips are still in good condition, meaning they have not been completely burned or charred, then they can be reused for smoking ribs. However, if the wood chips have turned to ash or have been burnt to a crisp, then they are not suitable for reuse.

To ensure that wood chips can be reused, it is important to properly store them after use. The wood chips should be placed in an airtight container or plastic bag to prevent them from absorbing moisture, which can cause them to deteriorate quickly. Additionally, it is important to clean the smoker thoroughly after use to prevent any residue or debris from sticking to the wood chips.

Reusing wood chips can also add more flavor to the ribs as the wood chips will have absorbed some of the flavors from the previous smoking session. However, it is important to note that reusing wood chips may not provide the same intensity of smoke flavor as fresh wood chips.

How long should wood chips soak before using them for smoking ribs?

When it comes to smoking ribs, wood chips are an essential ingredient that can add a delicious, smoky flavor to your meat. But how long should you soak your wood chips before using them? The answer to this question can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of wood chips you're using and personal preference.

Generally, it's recommended that you soak your wood chips for at least 30 minutes before using them. This will ensure that they produce smoke and don't burn too quickly, which can result in a bitter taste. Some people prefer to soak their wood chips for longer, up to 24 hours, to achieve a stronger smoky flavor.

It's important to note that not all wood chips require soaking. Hardwoods like oak and hickory can be used dry, while softer woods like apple and cherry may benefit from soaking. Additionally, some smokers have built-in chambers for wood chips that don't require soaking at all.

In summary, soaking your wood chips for at least 30 minutes is recommended for smoking ribs, but the length of time can vary depending on the type of wood and personal preference. Experimentation is key to finding the perfect balance of smoky flavor that suits your taste.

What is the recommended amount of wood chips to use when smoking ribs?

The recommended amount of wood chips to use when smoking ribs varies depending on the type of smoker being used and personal preference. However, a good rule of thumb is to use 1-2 cups of wood chips for every hour of smoking time. It's important to soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes before using them in the smoker. This helps to prevent the chips from burning too quickly and producing bitter smoke. Additionally, it's important to choose the right type of wood for smoking ribs. Some popular options include hickory, apple, cherry, and mesquite. Each type of wood imparts a different flavor to the meat, so it's important to experiment and find the one that you like best. Overall, the key to smoking ribs successfully is to use the right amount of wood chips and to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process.

What type of wood chips are best for smoking ribs?

When it comes to smoking ribs, the type of wood chips used can make a big difference in the flavor of the meat. The best type of wood chips for smoking ribs are the ones that impart a mild, sweet and smoky flavor. Some popular options include apple, cherry, and hickory wood chips.

Apple wood chips are known for their slightly sweet and fruity flavor, which makes them a great choice for pork ribs. Cherry wood chips, on the other hand, offer a milder and sweeter flavor, which pairs well with the natural sweetness of the pork. Hickory wood chips are also a popular choice, as they impart a bold and smoky flavor that complements the rich flavor of the pork meat.

Ultimately, the choice of wood chips will depend on personal preference and the desired flavor profile. It's always a good idea to experiment with different types of wood chips to find the one that best suits your taste. Just make sure to soak the chips in water for at least 30 minutes before using them, to prevent them from burning too quickly and to produce a steady smoke.

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