Printable setup comparison
Generator, starter kit or hot smoker?
Choose the standalone cold-smoke generator when you already have a suitable ventilated chamber. Choose the starter kit when you need compatible dust and setup essentials. Choose a hot smoker or barbecue smoker box when the aim is to cook while adding smoke.
Cold-smoking equipment creates smoke without cooking; a hot smoker is a different method, not a larger version of the same setup.
Swipe sideways to compare every column →
| Setup | Choose it when | You still need | Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standalone cold-smoke generator | You own a suitable chamber and want a reusable smoke source | Correct smoking dust, ignition method and airflow | Cold smoking |
| Cold-smoking starter kit | You want the compatible core pieces in one purchase | A suitable chamber and food-specific preparation | Cold smoking |
| Hot-smoking kit | You want to cook and smoke during the same session | Heat control and food-temperature checks | Hot smoking |
| Barbecue smoker box | You want to add smoke to a gas or charcoal barbecue | Suitable chips and a barbecue with a lid | Hot smoking / smoke flavour |
Cold-smoke setup check
- Use the fuel grade specified for the generator; maze units normally require dust.
- Keep airflow clear and never use the generator in an occupied or enclosed indoor space.
- Follow a validated food-preparation process; cold smoke does not cook food.
- Higher-risk consumers should follow current FSA advice on ready-to-eat cold-smoked fish.
From the Cove shop
Home smoking essentials that make the advice easier to put into practice.
The full guide
Read straight through, or dip into the sections that matter for your next smoking session.
Smoking your own fish (or other things for that matter) is much easier than people imagine.
We can supply you with all the equipment needed to smoke your own food, explain about the different wood varieties and give you a step by step guide to using a hot smoking oven, a BBQ smoke box or a cold smoke generator
We are always happy to help so please feel free to call us anytime on 01326 735017
The methods given for home smoking are not necessarily the only way or the correct way but they are what works for us. It's very much a case of experimenting and that is the fun part about smoking your own food.
