The Eighth Step

The Eighth Step

As a graduate of the WSM 5-Step program, I've learned the basics of food preparation, fire and smoke management, and other basics of backyard cookery. But, it wasn't until recently that I started to fire up my WSM with the confidence of a man who knew what he was doing.

In a recent panel discussion at the Printer's Row Book Fair, our own G Wiv, creator of the 5-step method, briefly mentioned that the method will teach you the basics, but after 7 or 8 dinners you'll really know a thing or two. Well, since completing the 5-step, I've cooked a leg-of-lamb, a brisket, and this past weekend I took on my most complex meal preparation:

1) One duck, brined and butterflied, fast-smoked with no water pan
2) One duck, brined and whole, 5-spice rub, smoked with the water pan
3) One side of salmon
4) A couple handfuls of various fresh sausages

This was my first ever "three meat" meal and my first smoke using apple wood. Most importantly, this was the first smoke since step 2 when I didn't use my speed-dial to contact the professor. I approached the WSM that day as a professional dominatrix approaches her customer: It was going to do my bidding. I was in control.

The Ducks


Me, my favorite apron, and my cleaver


The ducks after being introduced to my cleaver


Salmon and sausage


My guests were enthusiastic and enjoyed the meal immensely (one of them was an out-of-town guest who was here last year for my step 4 dinner and specifically requested more smoked meat). I found a few small points of criticism in the meal: 5-spice on the duck was a little too light and I took the salmon a little further than necessary. Very minor quibbles.

So, I've learned that five steps teaches you the way around, but it takes a couple more times before you feel like you're really in control. Thanks again for your guidance, Professor.

Best,
Michael

eatchicago wrote:I approached the WSM that day as a professional dominatrix approaches her customer: It was going to do my bidding. I was in control.

Michael,

Ducks look fantastic, you certainly showed them who's the boss.

Enjoy,
Gary