Water pan question part 2

[ddog27]

Another thing I have heard is that you should put onions and other fresh spices in the water in your water pan. Does this actually work or is this another myth? Has anyone tried this? What do you guys think?

[DATsBBQ]

IMHO forget putting anything in the water pan execept may sand lined with tinfoil if you're worried about thermal mass.

[Larry Wolfe]

Over the years I think I've tried adding everything but the kitchen sink and never could tell a difference. IMHO sand is the way to go!

[Gator]

I figure the dripping are as good as anything to catch and recycle.

[OSD]

I never have tasted any difference when I tried adding anything to the water. I think sand is as good as anything to use in the pan.

[copkid]

I often add onions, garlic and lemon or other things to the water pan. I'm not convinced it adds to the taste of the meat, but it makes for some comforting aromas along with the wood while grilling! It's more of a comfort thing for me.
Also, the next time you smoke a chicken or a turkey, try adding apple halves to the coal and wood! The smell is so incredible! Old apples work great for this.
Remember, a good deal of your taste ability comes from your nose, or sense of smell. If it smells good, it's probably gonna taste good!
Laura

[Gator]

Well then I suppose we are saying that using the beer can method on a chicken does no good either? Same principle, right?

[perryranch]

what does the sand in the pan do? I've never heard of this before.

[copkid]

Well then I suppose we are saying that using the beer can method on a chicken does no good either? Same principle, right?

Just uses the moisture; doesn't matter what you put in it. the only thing I've added to the can that I can taste, is when I stuff the can with fresh rosemary sprigs. Yum! Adds great flavor.
Laura

[OSD]

water or sand in the pan act as a heat sink--stabilizes the temp inside the smoker.