The Emerilware 4-in-1 Cast Iron Smoker is a versatile and efficient cooking vessel for preparing meat dishes, vegetables, seafood and more. Constructed from heavy cast iron, this specialty smoker set is a multi-function cooking pan that not only turns out moist and tender smoked dishes, but also converts to a grill, roaster and broiling pan. The set includes a 6-quart base with helper handles, lid with raised internal ribs (which flips over to become a free-standing grill), enamel drip tray, and wire rack. You also get a selection of four assorted containers of smoking chips (alder, hickory, apple and mesquite).

The first thing we noticed when unpacking the smoker is how heavy it is. Made from rugged cast iron, the two main pieces weigh in at around 20 pounds -- and that's empty! Luckily, once you set it in place on your stovetop, you can leave it there for the duration of cooking -- and even afterward as it cools down.

The real benefit of this smoker, besides its obvious versatility, is the results it delivers. Because it works on a low to medium heat source and uses the internal smoke-filled chamber to cook, the foods emerge moist and flavorful. Plus, because you are essentially using the indirect heat from the smoke, it is very hard to overcook foods. We left salmon smoking for an extra half hour with no detrimental effects.

The Emerilware smoker can be used on your stovetop, in the oven, over a campfire or on a gas grill. You can use just the base and wire rack to roast a whole chicken or cut of beef, pork or lamb; or use just the lid, inverted to sear vegetables, burgers or kebobs. The pieces are also broiler safe to finish dishes by melting cheese or browning.

The smoker did an excellent job sealing in heat and excess smoke. We could smell some of the smokey aroma in the kitchen but the majority of the smoke was confined to the pan. Recipes are included to get you started or you can try creating your own dishes.

The cast iron is extremely efficient in terms of absorbing and transferring heat. It will also stand up to rigorous use and won't warp, bend, leak or crack. The pieces also have a natural nonstick quality so cleanup is easier. The only maintenance you need to worry about is keeping the pieces clean and dry. For general cleaning, polishing, and maintenance the manufacturer recommends a product called Bar Keeper's Friend, which is a mild abrasive powdered cleanser/polish that is available in grocery stores.


Pros: Sturdy, cast iron, will last a lifetime
Cons: Extremely heavy (20 pounds)