Hi Folks
I know it�s been a while but I have been busy with one thing or another�you know how it goes!
Well I suppose I had better make this posting in reply to Paul�s invitation�Thanks buddy
The method I use is as Paul said, and that is to use a Kettle style BBQ for smoking purposes. It�s ideal for this, especially if it has vents to adjust the air and smoke levels. It�s a lengthy process so make sure you have a day or so to spare�but the results are well worth the effort! What I do is to select the peppers for smoking and place them on a foil sheet, which has been pierced with small slits cut with a knife. Fold up the edges to make a square tray and set them to one side. Then, place charcoal on the bottom of the BBQ and get them up and running. When they are nice and hot distribute them evenly. For smoking purposes I simply use fallen oak that I have previously cut into small chunks�around the size of a charcoal briquette.
Simply place 3 to 4 of these on top of the hot coals and replace the grill. Then add your tray of peppers and close the lid. You will need to keep an eye on them to make sure they don�t burn. Experiment with the vents and the lid if you find the heat too intense. As the coals expire you will need to keep adding a few more to keep things moving, as well as more oak to keep the smoke plentiful.
The whole process can take a day and a half to complete depending on the density of the peppers used.
When they are ready they will be considerably smaller than they started out. You need them to be smoked but not cremated though�lol Ideally they will be a deep rusty brown colour and will still be slightly pliable. The effort is certainly worth the net result�So what are you waiting for�Get smoking!
Give it a try and let me know how you get on.
Hot Regards
Blaise