minion method

dawg · Posted: Jan 03 2011 Post subject: minion method

is the minion method worth trying or useing in an UDS? I have a 14 inch dia. coal basket and was thinking of a 3lb coffee can in the middle and putting lump and what not around it, and putting the lit lump in the can then pull the can.

Also how many posts do i need to graduate from newbie?
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k.a.m. · Posted: Jan 03 2011 Post subject:

dawg, the minion method is all I use in the UDS and the WSM's. I would say it is very worth using. Your idea is some what like Canadian Bacon uses when firing his WSM.
As far as the post count I am not sure, I never look at post counts. Smile

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SoEzzy · Posted: Jan 03 2011 Post subject:

I use the minions method almost exclusively in my UDS's so that I don't need to work hard on loading or refueling in the middle of the cook.

I build the briquettes and chunk wood in the basket, then start a 1/2 chimney starter for 250� on a 55 gallon drum and 3/4 for 250� on the 85 gallon drums, if you want it hotter use more briquettes in the chimney starter, you'll need to work out what amounts to use.

I put my lit briquettes on the top, I don't like the idea of putting them in the middle as I think this may light more briquettes as it burns than you need to maintain the heat you require.

See disclaimer below!

Your title will change at 100 posts!
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dawg · Posted: Jan 03 2011 Post subject:

thanks kam. you dont need to look at post counts cuz you have like a million. LOL
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when the going gets tough...... eat more fiber!!!

Big Immigrant · Posted: Jan 03 2011 Post subject:

I am very new to smoking, but I just put the lit 1/2 chimney on top of the pile in my wsm and it works well.

BI

Jeff T · Posted: Jan 03 2011 Post subject:

I feel the same as the other its about the only way to cook when using charcoal or lump. I even use that method when grilling.
But most times in my UDS i just hit the center with a weed burner for a minute or so. It`ll climb up to temp in no time. The drums are just too easy to cook on.... meaning they work so well.

BluDawg · Posted: Jan 03 2011 Post subject:

I use the Minnion method in My drum I light up 8 briquettes and lay them in the center of the lump drop it in and I'm up to tmp and ready to load the meat in 20 min cursing at 230-240.
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Soapm · Posted: Jan 03 2011 Post subject:

Canadian Bacon · Posted: Jan 03 2011 Post subject:

Dawg I use the exact same method you do in my Whiskey barrel,and my WSM....works great fo me.
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Pit Boss · Posted: Jan 04 2011 Post subject:

Ditch the coffee can and just dump the lit coals right on top...you'll get a slower burn that way.

This is how you bank your fire....errr....I mean, this is how you adapt the minion method into something better.
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Canadian Bacon · Posted: Jan 04 2011 Post subject:

Experiment with different methods,I have tried them all and I find in my Whiskey Barrel and WSM this is the method I prefere,everything burns evenly and temp is much easier to control when things burn even.Im not saying this method is better,but it works better for me.

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Horizon Offset (Marshall RD Special)
30 " Electric Masterbuilt(Digital)
Large BGE
Napoleon Legend Gasser
20"& 26" Discada
Two of the fastest Thermapens ever made ... Black& Blue
LIAR #25

k.a.m. · Posted: Jan 04 2011 Post subject:

Tony · Posted: Jan 04 2011 Post subject:

Nice pictorial,C.B. ! Cool

Good Stuff and simple for All to follow! Wink

Best Regards,

Tony Very Happy

Pit Boss · Posted: Jan 04 2011 Post subject:

Rare Breed · Posted: Jan 04 2011 Post subject:

I use CB's way also but I use the smaller size coffee can and it works perfect everytime for me. CB is that the large gallon size coffee can? I use the one that is roughly quart size. On the WSM the fire burns according to how I have the vents open.

k.a.m. · Posted: Jan 04 2011 Post subject:

dawg · Posted: Jan 04 2011 Post subject:

i have been pretty much filling the coal basket with lump and smokin wood to almost full. then i will will fill my chimney with small chunks of lump, light it and just pour over top of the coal basket. i then let the basket sit for about thirty minutes before i put it in the UDS, seems to work so far, just thinking of trying something different. by the way do any of you let your coal basket set a bit before putting in the drum? or am i being anal again?
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when the going gets tough...... eat more fiber!!!

BluDawg · Posted: Jan 04 2011 Post subject:

I put the hot coals on top and drop it in the drum.
_________________
Never met a cow that I didn't like with a little salt and pepper.
My Blog: http://acountryboyeats.blogspot.com
Char Griller Super Pro w/SFB
Webber 22 OTS
Memorial UDS "Big Jim"

Canadian Bacon · Posted: Jan 04 2011 Post subject:

Soapm · Posted: Jan 04 2011 Post subject: