Low and slow cooking: Smoking uses a low temperature, typically between \(200\) and \(225^{\circ }F\) (\(93\) and \(107^{\circ }C\)), to cook meat slowly.Indirect heat: The meat is not cooked over a direct flame; instead, it cooks with indirect heat from a fire that is smoldering wood chips or chunks.Wood smoke: The smoke from smoldering hardwoods like hickory, mesquite, or fruit woods is what gives the meat its unique flavor and aroma.Tender texture: The slow cooking process allows tough connective tissues in the meat, like collagen, to break down and melt into gelatin, which makes the meat very moist and tender.Flavor enhancement: Smoking is a method of flavor enhancement, with the wood smoke adding a distinctive taste that complements the meat. Some chefs prefer to use minimal rubs or sauces to let the smoke flavor shine through.