Here are some varieties of wood chunks you can easily order on Amazon.
Not sure which wood to pick? Try the Wood Pairing Selector. It matches woods to whatever you're smoking.
Hickory
Very well known and sought after. One of the most popular choices for barbecue enthusiasts. Hickory is one of those choices where it is hard to go wrong since in certain amounts, it pairs well with almost anything you put on a grill. Brisket, Pork Ribs, Chicken, Lamb Chops, Turkey
Pecan Firewood
A wonderful and often underrated fruit wood that most BBQ Pitmasters use to blend with other woods in the spirit of wineries that blend their grapes. But this smoke can stand on its own very well with certain meats. Beef, Pork loin, Chicken, Leg of Lamb.
Applewood
Right up there with Hickory as one of the most popular. You will find that many of the wood varieties on this list come from fruit trees. In seeking a great match for pork, this is probably the most commonly used. Boston Butt, Chicken, Lamb.
Mesquite
When you smell Mesquite, it is usually because you are going to be enjoying Texas style BBQ. I will not try to do it justice here to describe the aroma, just know what protein it mixes well with as it can be overpowering but a perfect match for heavier meats. Beef Ribs, Chicken, Salmon.
Cherry Wood
I have heard a lot of people that like to mix cherry with other wood because it provides a beautiful color to the outside of your BBQ. But by itself, it still provides a wonderful flavor. Beef, Pork, Chicken, Lamb, Turkey.
White Oak
Another great all around wood that is becoming higher in demand. Oak is a delicious hardwood and can be paired with almost any BBQ. Steak, Turkey, Shrimp.
Maple
Mild and a little sweet. Maple is one of the gentler woods, so it won't overpower lighter meats. A good pick when you want some smoke without a lot of bite. Chicken, Turkey, Pork, Fish, Cheese.
Peach
A Southern favorite, especially in Georgia and South Carolina where peach trees are everywhere. Sweet and a little earthy, like a milder, fruitier hickory. Pork, Chicken, Turkey.
Pear
Light and sweet, like a softer apple. A nice change of pace on pork and poultry when you want fruit wood without much bite. Pork, Chicken, Turkey.
Plum
Sweet, fruity and a little bolder than most fruit woods. Pork, Chicken, Fish.
Orange
Light, tangy and citrusy. Popular in Florida, where orange wood is easy to come by. Chicken, Fish, Pork.
Cedar Planks
Cedar isn't a smoking wood. Never burn it in your smoker. Cedar planks go right on the grill grate with the fish on top. Soak them first so they smolder instead of catching fire. Salmon and other fish.
ALLBBQ.net is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.