StillSmart

hi everyone,

As the title suggests I have chopped down an apple tree in my garden and was wondering if the wood can be used for ageing and flavouring?

thanks all

Yes because it is hardwood. Season and toast.

eattheliving.
For sure you can use it.
You are just a bit of a pioneer.

Robert.

Just to be clear you can't use all woods. Softwood is carcinogenic.

It makes quite nice tool handles.

thanks guys for the info.

sooo strip off the bark and leave it to season then toast.

how long for seasoning and does it need to be in the dry or out in the great British winter?

I would just use what the experts use.....oak, its easy to get hold of.

Split it and bring it indoors. Keep it somewhere warm and airy. For a couple of months.

Once it feels dry I would oven it at 60c for a couple of hours until dry.

Then toast. At 100 - 120c. For probably 20 minds depending on the tastes you want.
This bit is difficult and smokey. Do it outside.

Apple wood has some quite strong and
unique flavours in it, I often
smoke food with it.
Good luck keep us posted please.

thanks guy's will do. just one more query... do I strip the bark off before brining it in?

of course you do

Anyone got any ideas if wood from a cherry tree could be used??

I've got a big one that's so big it blocks my sky dish when it's covered in leafs in the summer, it needs a few big sticks hacking off of it, if I can toast them...winner :-)

I don't know, but would certainly give it a go!
Apart from Leylandi, I guess that I might try any wood.
But don't quote me on that.

Robert.

Heartwood from Prunus species (apple, plum, cherry, etc.) should generally be safe. Anything that's used as a flavor wood for BBQ or in smokers should be fine for aging hooch.

This company makes "barrel alternativess" from cherry, as well as a few other woods:

http://www.blackswanbarrels.com/honey-c ... ternative/

Yup cherry is fine. Same process.

I use cherry in the smoker.. Yum.