What You Need to Know
Pyrolysis of sphagnum moss lignin yields guaiacol (2-methoxyphenol) and syringol (2,6-dimethoxyphenol), with secondary formation of cresols and pyridines. The high moisture content of peat results in smoldering combustion below 300°C.
Imparts a medicinal, iodine-rich character distinct from wood smoking, particularly valued for preserving salmon and flavoring whisky malt.
Key Parameters
Temperature
65°C
50°C - 80°C
Time
12-18 hours
4 hours - 48 hours
Equipment
Traditional stone-walled kilnsPerforated metal smoke boxesHumidity-controlled cabinets
Steps
- 1.
Arbroath Smokies (Scotland): Preservation and flavor development in haddock
- 2.
Peated barley malt (Islay): Phenol infusion for whisky character
The Science
Primary Reaction
Incomplete combustion of peat polysaccharides