Northwest Charcoal and Chemical is a great local resource for hardwoods for grilling and smoking. They are a supplier to many local restaurants that burn wood.They sell both chunks of wood and chips- Mesquite, Hickory, Apple, Maple, Alder, Walnut, Olive, Pecan, Peach, et al. The chips can be added to a regular charcoal fire- much like you would add a spice to food- for a accent. The chunks can be used alone for grilling and smoking- and the timber should be carefully paired with the meats- The experts at Northwest Charcoal can advise you on this. For instance Apple pairs nicely with pork, whereas, the light sweet Alder wood is a good choice for fish.
The nicely packaged wood chips and chunks bought in stores are very expensive in comparison- by my accounts almost triple what you would pay at Northwest. On a recent visit I paid $19. for a 14 # box of Apple Wood. It’s located in a cinder block warehouse- in a neighborhood that hasn’t been gentrified- so my suggestion would be “aware” of the surroundings when visiting and maybe bring a buddy.
Call them before you go- as they are frequently away from the phone- or on a delivery If you leave a message and they will promptly return your call and you can arrange a time to visit. They are open Monday - Friday 9-5. If you haven’t tried grilling over hardwood- pay them a visit and give it a go- the results are very rewarding.
Northwest Charcoal and Chemical Company
2900 17th Ave So, Minneapolis Marcia's Kitchen Home
612.879.8044