Is Kiln Dried Firewood Good for Cooking?

Is Kiln Dried Firewood Good for Cooking?

Kiln-dried wood is the best choice for cooking. It burns hotter, longer, and cleaner than other types of wood, and it imparts a delicious smoky flavor to food. 


Kiln-dried wood is wood that has been dried in a kiln, a controlled environment that uses heat and forced air to remove moisture from the wood. This process can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks, depending on the size and type of wood. Kiln-dried wood has several advantages over seasoned wood, including:


  • Lower moisture content. Kiln-dried wood has a moisture content of 6-8%, compared to 15-20% for seasoned wood. This means that kiln-dried wood burns more evenly and produces less smoke.
  • More consistent quality. Kiln drying is a more controlled process than air drying, which means that kiln-dried wood is more consistent in quality. This is important for cooking, as you want to be sure that the wood you are using will produce the desired results.
  • Longer burn time. Kiln-dried wood burns for longer than air-dried timber, so you can get more cooking time from each piece of wood. This is especially important if you are cooking for a large group or cooking something that takes a long time, such as a brisket or a pork shoulder.
  • Less creosote buildup. Creosote is a thick, black substance that can build up inside your smoker or grill. It is a byproduct of incomplete combustion and can harm your health. Kiln-dried wood produces less creosote than air-dried wood, so you are less likely to clean your smoker or grill as often.

Choosing the Right Wood for Cooking


Not all types of wood are created equal when it comes to cooking. Some woods are better suited for certain types of food, while others can impart unwanted flavors. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing wood for cooking:


  • Hardwoods. Hardwoods are generally the best choice for cooking. They are denser than softwoods and burn more evenly, producing less smoke. Some popular hardwoods for cooking include oak, hickory, maple, and cherry.
  • Softwoods. Hardwoods are better for cooking than softwoods but can be used in a pinch. They tend to burn more quickly and produce more smoke than hardwoods. Some popular softwoods for cooking include pine, fir, and cedar.
  • Fruitwoods. Fruitwoods are an excellent choice for smoking meats and vegetables. They impart a sweet, fruity flavor that pairs well with many different types of food. Some popular fruitwoods for cooking include apples, cherries, and peaches.
  • Spicewoods. Spicewoods can add a subtle or bold flavor to your food. Some popular spicewoods for cooking include mesquite, hickory, and pecan.

How to Use Kiln Dried Wood for Cooking


Once you have chosen your wood, it is vital to use it properly to get the best results. Here are a few tips for using kiln-dried wood for cooking:


  • Chop the wood into small pieces. The smaller the pieces of wood, the easier they will be to light and the more evenly they will burn.
  • Start the fire with dry fuel. Dry Tinder is a great way to get your fire started. You can start the fire by using newspaper, kindling, or a lighter.
  • Add the wood to the fire gradually. Only add a little wood to the fire at a time, or you will smother it. Add the wood a few pieces at a time, allowing the fire to catch each piece before adding more.
  • Monitor the fire. Once the fire is going, be sure to monitor it closely. Add more wood as needed and adjust the airflow to keep the fire burning evenly.
  • Be patient. Cooking with wood takes time. Keep going even if your food doesn't cook as quickly as in a conventional oven. Just be patient and let the wood do its job.

Kiln-dried wood is an excellent choice for cooking. Lighting is easy, burns evenly, and produces less smoke than air-dried wood. If you want to improve your cooking, I highly recommend using kiln-dried wood.


When it comes to choosing kiln-dried firewood, there are a lot of factors to consider. You want to ensure that you're getting high-quality wood that will burn hot and long and that you're getting it from a reputable dealer. That's where Corrin comes in.


Why Choose Corrin?


When you choose Corrin for your kiln-dried firewood, you can be sure you're getting the best possible product. Our wood has a moisture content of less than 3% and is guaranteed to burn hot and long and is always delivered on time and in perfect condition.


Corrin is a leading provider of kiln-dried firewood in New Jersey, Delaware, Pennslyvania, and Maryland. We offer a wide variety of hardwoods; all kiln-dried to perfection. Our wood is guaranteed to burn hot and long and is always delivered on time and in perfect condition.


Order your kiln-dried firewood today and experience the difference.

Back to blog