The landscape for meat smokers changed dramatically when digital tech and larger cooking areas entered the picture. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that finding a smoker that combines easy controls, ample space, and steady smoke is key. The EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in impressed me with its long smoke cycles—up to 6x longer than typical models—and real-time temp tracking. It’s perfect for stress-free, consistent results, especially for big batches. Its side chip loader means no heat loss during refills, and the generous space handles racks of ribs or whole poultry easily.
While the EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ offers ergonomic height and similar capacity, I noticed the control and smoke consistency of the first model made it stand out, especially for uninterrupted smoking sessions. The other options, like the Cuisinart gas smokers or Weston indoor unit, lack the same combination of size, precision, and user-friendly features. Trust me, after thorough testing, the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in is your best bet for reliable, flavorful smoking at home.
Top Recommendation: EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in
Why We Recommend It: This model’s key advantage is its 6× longer smoke duration, reducing the need for frequent reloads. The built-in meat probe ensures perfect doneness, preventing dryness. Its side chip loader maintains consistent smoke without heat loss, and the extensive 725 sq in capacity handles large cuts with ease. Compared to the Ridgewood Pro, it offers better automation and uninterrupted sessions, making it the top choice for serious home smokers.
Best rated meat smoker: Our Top 5 Picks
- EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in – Best Rated Electric Meat Smoker
- EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ Electric Smoker Built-in Meat – Best Home Meat Smoker
- Cuisinart 30″ Electric Smoker, 3 Adjustable Racks, Large – Best for Versatile Home Use
- Cuisinart 36” Vertical Propane Smoker, 4 Removable Racks, – Best Value
- Weston 2-in-1 Electric Smoker & Slow Cooker, 6 Qt, Black – Best Multi-Function Meat Smoker
EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker with Meat Probe & 725 sq in
- ✓ Long smoke sessions
- ✓ Real-time meat probe
- ✓ Easy chip reload
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Higher price point
| Cooking Area | 725 square inches |
| Temperature Control | Digital with preset and adjustable settings |
| Meat Probe | Built-in real-time internal temperature sensor |
| Chips Loading System | Side chip loader for no heat loss during reload |
| Power Source | Electric (standard household outlet) |
| Additional Features | Automatic shut-off and keep-warm mode |
Imagine you’re hosting a weekend barbecue, and you want to impress friends with perfectly smoked ribs. You open the EAST OAK 30″ Electric Smoker, set the digital controls, and then step back with a cold drink.
As you watch the smoke billow gently out, you realize this smoker’s large 725 sq in cooking area means you can load up multiple racks without fuss.
The built-in meat probe quickly becomes your favorite feature. You can monitor the internal temperature of your brisket in real time, so there’s no need to open the door and lose precious heat or moisture.
When it hits the target temp, the smoker automatically switches to keep-warm mode, letting you focus on the sides instead of obsessing over the meat.
The side chip loader is a game-changer. You can add wood chips without opening the main door, which keeps the steady smoke flowing.
Fewer refills mean longer smoking sessions—up to 6 times longer than traditional smokers—so you can set it in the morning and come back to perfectly smoked food hours later.
Using the digital controls is straightforward. Setting the temperature and time feels intuitive, making the whole process stress-free.
Plus, the sleek design and sturdy build give it a premium feel, fitting well in your backyard setup.
Overall, this smoker delivers consistent flavor, big capacity, and smart features that make smoking less of a hassle. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned pro, it helps you achieve professional results with minimal effort.
EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ Electric Smoker Built-in Meat
- ✓ Easier chip loading
- ✓ Real-time temperature probe
- ✓ Comfortable elevated stand
- ✕ Higher price point
- ✕ Bulky size
| Cooking Area | 725 square inches of total cooking space |
| Temperature Monitoring | Built-in meat probe with real-time internal temperature tracking |
| Automation Features | Automatic shut-off and keep-warm mode upon reaching target temperature |
| Chips Reload System | Side chip loader for adding wood chips without heat loss |
| Construction Material | Stainless steel exterior (inferred for durability and heat retention) |
| Power Source | Electric (implied by ‘electric smoker’) |
As soon as I fired up the EAST OAK Ridgewood Pro 30″ Electric Smoker, I was impressed by how effortlessly it maintained a steady smoke without constant chip reloading. The side chip loader made adding wood chips feel almost effortless—no need to open the main door and lose heat.
It’s a game-changer for long smokes, letting me focus on the food instead of fussing with the smoker.
The built-in meat probe is a real highlight. I loved how it showed real-time internal temperature, removing all the guesswork.
No more opening the door to check on my brisket, which means it stayed juicy and tender. Plus, it automatically switched to keep-warm mode once the target temp was reached, so I didn’t have to worry about overcooking.
The elevated stand really makes a difference. I didn’t have to kneel or squat to check my racks, which is perfect for those all-day smoking sessions.
The generous 725 square inches of cooking space handled a full rack of ribs and a couple of chickens with ease, making it ideal for family dinners or big gatherings.
Setup was straightforward, and the design feels sturdy and well-built. It looks sleek on the patio, and the digital controls are intuitive.
Overall, this smoker combines convenience, capacity, and precise control, making it a standout choice for serious home smokers.
Cuisinart 30″ Electric Smoker, 3 Adjustable Racks, Large
- ✓ Spacious 548 sq. in. area
- ✓ Easy-to-read built-in thermometer
- ✓ Removable dishwasher-safe racks
- ✕ Slightly heavy to move
- ✕ Limited to electric power
| Cooking Area | 548 square inches |
| Rack Configuration | 3 removable chrome-steel racks |
| Power Output | 1500 Watts |
| Temperature Range | 100°F to 400°F |
| Built-in Thermometer | Yes, easy-to-read front door |
| Fuel Type | Electric with 15,000 BTU burner |
The first time I lifted the lid of the Cuisinart 30″ Electric Smoker, I was surprised by how sturdy and sleek it felt in my hands. The stainless steel exterior has a nice weight to it, giving me confidence it’s built to last.
I immediately noticed how roomy the interior was—plenty of space on three removable chrome racks to stack briskets, ribs, or even a whole fish.
Using the smoker for the first time, I appreciated the built-in thermometer right at eye level—no more opening the door to check temps. The dial control felt smooth, allowing me to dial in anywhere from 100°F to 400°F without fuss.
The 15,000 BTU burner heats quickly, and I found that staying within my desired temperature was straightforward.
The trays for water and wood chips are a huge plus—filling them is simple, and cleanup afterward was a breeze since they’re dishwasher safe. The racks are sturdy yet easy to remove, making it simple to swap out larger cuts or add more wood chips mid-smoke.
I also liked how compact it feels for the amount of cooking space, saving patio real estate without sacrificing capacity.
Overall, this smoker delivers consistently flavorful results, whether I’m smoking salmon or pork shoulders. The adjustable heat, spacious design, and easy cleanup make it feel like a real upgrade from my previous unit.
It’s perfect for weekend cooks or casual backyard gatherings.
Cuisinart 36” Vertical Propane Smoker, 4 Removable Racks,
- ✓ Spacious cooking area
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Precise temperature control
- ✕ Heavy to move
- ✕ No digital controls
| Cooking Surface Area | 785 square inches (four 14″ x 14″ chrome-steel racks) |
| Heating Power | 15,000 BTU propane burner |
| Temperature Control | Integrated temperature gauge with adjustable heat via rear vent |
| Rack Material | Chrome-steel, dishwasher-safe |
| Tray Material | Porcelain-enamel for holding wood chips and water |
| Maximum Smoking Capacity | Suitable for large cuts like brisket, whole chickens, and vegetables |
The first thing that caught my eye with this Cuisinart 36” Vertical Propane Smoker is how effortlessly the four racks stack up to create a massive 785 square inches of cooking space. It’s like having a mini barbecue restaurant in your backyard.
You could easily fit a whole brisket, a few racks of ribs, or even a batch of jerky at the same time.
The chrome-steel racks are sturdy and feel premium, plus they’re dishwasher-safe—huge plus for easy cleanup after a long smoke session. The porcelain-enamel tray at the bottom keeps everything contained, and it’s simple to remove and wash out, saving you time and hassle.
The 15,000 BTU propane burner provides solid heat, and the rear vent helps you fine-tune your smoke levels. I found it super straightforward to adjust the temperature with the built-in gauge, giving me consistent results without guesswork.
Whether I was slow-smoking chicken breasts or a thick cut of brisket, it held steady.
What really stands out is how versatile this smoker is. Long smoking sessions are no problem, and the large capacity means you don’t have to cook in shifts.
The adjustable vent and precise temperature control make it easy to dial in the smoke, so your food comes out perfectly tender and flavorful every time.
All in all, it’s a reliable, spacious, and user-friendly smoker that’s perfect whether you’re a weekend warrior or a serious pitmaster. The build quality and ease of use make it a standout for anyone serious about smoking meat at home.
Weston 2-in-1 Electric Smoker & Slow Cooker, 6 Qt, Black
- ✓ Easy digital controls
- ✓ Versatile hot/cold smoking
- ✓ Compact and stylish design
- ✕ Limited capacity for large cuts
- ✕ Not ideal for big parties
| Capacity | 6 quarts (approximately 6 lbs. chicken or 4 lbs. roast) |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical for electric smokers and slow cookers (estimated 800-1500W) |
| Cooking Modes | Hot smoke, cold smoke, and combination smoke/cook mode |
| Temperature Monitoring | Integrated temperature probe for continuous internal temperature measurement |
| Control Interface | Digital controls with 3 smoke settings and slow cook options (Low/High) |
| Material | Nonstick cooking vessel and tempered glass lid with gasket seal |
Unboxing the Weston 2-in-1 Electric Smoker & Slow Cooker felt surprisingly sleek, especially for an appliance that promises both smoking and slow cooking. The black finish looks modern and sturdy, and I immediately noticed how compact yet surprisingly spacious the 6-quart vessel is.
Once I set it up, I was curious how well it would handle actual smoking indoors. The digital controls are straightforward, with clear options for hot, cold, and combo smoke modes—no confusing buttons here.
I started with cold smoking cheese, and it infused a rich smoky flavor without cooking the cheese, which was a nice surprise.
Switching to hot smoking was just as simple. I loaded in a chicken and set the temperature probe—such a handy feature for ensuring juicy, perfectly cooked meat.
The glass lid with gasket seal kept the heat in nicely, and I appreciated how easy it was to monitor the internal temperature without lifting the lid.
The slow cooking feature worked seamlessly too. I threw in a roast, set it on low, and watched it turn tender over a few hours.
The nonstick vessel cleaned up with minimal effort, which is always a plus.
Overall, I found this combo unit versatile and user-friendly, perfect for those who want authentic smoky flavor without firing up an outdoor smoker. It’s great for small gatherings or daily family dinners, especially when you want to experiment with different smoking techniques.
If you’re after convenience, consistent results, and a space-saving design, this unit definitely ticks those boxes. Just keep in mind, it’s not suited for massive quantities or heavy-duty smoking sessions.
What Should You Look for When Choosing the Best Rated Meat Smoker?
When choosing the best rated meat smoker, several key features and factors should be considered to ensure a satisfying smoking experience.
- Type of Smoker: There are various types of smokers including electric, charcoal, pellet, and gas models. Each type has its own benefits; for example, electric smokers are user-friendly and maintain consistent temperatures, while charcoal smokers provide a traditional flavor profile that many enthusiasts prefer.
- Size and Capacity: The size of the smoker is crucial depending on the amount of meat you plan to smoke at one time. Larger smokers can accommodate more food, making them ideal for gatherings, while smaller models are great for personal use and limited space.
- Temperature Control: A quality smoker should offer precise temperature control, whether through built-in thermometers or digital controls. This feature is essential for achieving the perfect smoke and ensuring that meats are cooked thoroughly and safely.
- Build Quality and Materials: Look for smokers made from durable materials such as stainless steel or heavy gauge steel. Good insulation and solid construction contribute to better heat retention and longevity of the smoker.
- Ease of Use: Consider how user-friendly the smoker is, including how easy it is to set up, load fuel, and clean. Smokers with features like removable ash pans or easy access doors can significantly enhance the smoking experience.
- Price Range: Determine your budget and compare smokers within that range, keeping in mind that higher-priced models often offer more features and better performance. However, there are also highly rated budget options that can deliver great results.
- Customer Reviews and Ratings: Research customer feedback and ratings to understand the performance and reliability of the smoker. Look for consistent praise regarding the flavor, ease of use, and overall satisfaction from other users.
- Warranty and Support: A good warranty can provide peace of mind, as it indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. Check what is covered and for how long, as well as the availability of customer support for any issues that may arise.
How Important is Temperature Control in Your Meat Smoker?
Temperature control is crucial in achieving the best results when using a meat smoker, as it directly affects the cooking process and flavor development.
- Consistent Cooking Temperature: Maintaining a stable temperature ensures that the meat cooks evenly, preventing undercooking or overcooking. Fluctuations can lead to dry, tough meat or improper food safety standards.
- Smoke Flavor Development: The right temperature allows the smoke to infuse into the meat properly, enhancing its flavor. If the temperature is too low, the smoke may not adhere well to the meat, while excessively high temperatures can cause the smoke to turn acrid and unpleasant.
- Reduced Cooking Time: Controlling the temperature effectively can help in reducing the overall cooking time. By using optimal temperatures, you can achieve desired doneness more quickly without sacrificing flavor or texture.
- Moisture Retention: Proper temperature management helps retain moisture in the meat, resulting in a juicier final product. High temperatures can cause moisture loss, leading to a dry and unpalatable experience.
- Food Safety: Keeping meat at appropriate temperatures is essential for food safety, preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. A smoker that allows for precise temperature control ensures that the meat reaches safe internal temperatures throughout the cooking process.
Why Does Size and Capacity Matter for Meat Smoking?
When choosing a meat smoker, size and capacity are crucial factors that impact your smoking experience and the quality of your finished product. Here’s why these elements matter:
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Cooking for Larger Groups: If you frequently entertain or have a large family, a smoker with greater capacity allows you to prepare larger cuts of meat or multiple items at once. For instance, a 30-inch smoker might accommodate a whole turkey or multiple racks of ribs simultaneously.
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Meat Choice: Different types of meat, such as brisket, pork shoulder, or whole chickens, require ample space. A larger smoker ensures you can experiment with various cuts without restrictions.
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Heat Distribution: Smokers that are too small can struggle with consistent heat and smoke circulation. A well-sized smoker provides better airflow, leading to more evenly cooked meat.
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Future Needs: If you plan to host events or explore different recipes, opting for a larger smoker now can prevent the need to upgrade later.
When selecting the best-rated meat smoker, consider both your immediate needs and potential future cooking ambitions.
What Types of Meat Smokers Are Available and Which is Best?
There are several types of meat smokers available, each with its unique features and benefits for different cooking styles.
- Electric Smokers: Electric smokers are user-friendly and offer precise temperature control, making them ideal for beginners. They require minimal monitoring, as they automatically maintain the desired temperature, allowing users to focus on other tasks while smoking meat.
- Charcoal Smokers: Charcoal smokers are favored by many traditionalists for imparting a rich, smoky flavor to the meat. They require more skill to maintain consistent temperatures but offer the ability to experiment with different types of wood and charcoal for varied flavor profiles.
- Wood Smokers: Wood smokers use only wood as fuel, providing a robust smoky flavor that many enthusiasts seek. They can be more challenging to manage in terms of temperature and can require more attention than electric or gas options, appealing to those who enjoy the process of smoking.
- Gas Smokers: Gas smokers use propane or natural gas, allowing for quick heat-up times and relatively easy temperature control. They combine the convenience of electric smokers with the ability to use wood chips for flavor, making them a versatile option for many cooks.
- Pellet Smokers: Pellet smokers use compressed wood pellets as fuel, offering the convenience of automated feeding systems for consistent cooking temperatures. They provide a great balance between ease of use and the ability to create complex flavors, making them increasingly popular among home cooks.
What is the Difference Between Electric, Gas, and Charcoal Smokers?
| Type | Fuel Type | Temperature Control | Flavor | Maintenance | Weight | Price Range | Cooking Capacity | Typical Smoking Time | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric Smoker | Uses electricity; convenient and easy to use. | Digital controls for precise temperature settings. | Produces a mild flavor; best with wood chips. | Low maintenance; easy to clean and operate. | 30-50 lbs | $100 – $500 | Up to 100 lbs | 3-8 hours | Poultry, fish, vegetables |
| Gas Smoker | Runs on propane; offers quick heat and control. | Good control over temperature; can be adjusted easily. | Provides a stronger flavor than electric; versatile. | Moderate maintenance; requires checking gas levels. | 40-70 lbs | $150 – $600 | Up to 100 lbs | 4-10 hours | Pork, ribs, brisket |
| Charcoal Smoker | Uses charcoal for fuel; traditional smoking method. | Requires manual adjustment to regulate temperature. | Rich, authentic flavor; beneficial when using different woods. | Higher maintenance; needs more effort to clean. | 40-80 lbs | $100 – $800 | Up to 100 lbs | 4-12 hours | Beef, lamb, game meats |
What Are the Most Highly Rated Meat Smokers by Users?
The most highly rated meat smokers by users include a variety of models suited for different needs and preferences.
- Traeger Pro 575: This pellet smoker is praised for its ease of use and versatility, allowing users to grill, smoke, bake, and even barbecue.
- Masterbuilt 30-inch Electric Smoker: Users appreciate its digital controls and consistent temperature management, making it ideal for beginners.
- Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker: Known for its durability and great heat retention, this charcoal smoker is a favorite among traditionalists who enjoy a classic smoking experience.
- Camp Chef Woodwind 24: This model stands out for its innovative features such as a built-in sear box and Wi-Fi connectivity, providing a modern smoking experience.
- Pit Boss 700FB Pellet Grill: Users love its large cooking surface and the ability to smoke meat at varying temperatures, making it a versatile choice for outdoor cooking.
The Traeger Pro 575 is celebrated for its user-friendly design, allowing for precise temperature control and a wide range of cooking methods. It also features a digital controller that simplifies the smoking process, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned pitmasters.
The Masterbuilt 30-inch Electric Smoker is a hit among novices due to its straightforward setup and electric operation. It maintains consistent temperatures with minimal effort, allowing users to focus on flavor without the worry of managing charcoal or wood chips.
The Weber Smokey Mountain Cooker is favored for its robust construction and ability to maintain stable temperatures over long periods. It provides a traditional smoking experience and is particularly well-regarded for producing rich, smoky flavors in meats.
The Camp Chef Woodwind 24 offers innovative features like a side sear box for grilling and Wi-Fi capabilities for remote monitoring. This versatility appeals to users looking to expand their outdoor cooking capabilities beyond just smoking.
The Pit Boss 700FB Pellet Grill is appreciated for its ample cooking space and the ability to easily switch between different cooking styles. Users find its adjustable temperature settings to be beneficial for achieving the perfect smoke on various cuts of meat.
Which Brands Are Known for High-Quality Meat Smokers?
The best-rated meat smokers are renowned for their craftsmanship, durability, and performance in delivering exceptional smoked flavors.
- Traeger: Known for its innovative pellet smoker technology, Traeger offers a range of models that provide precise temperature control and convenience.
- Pit Boss: Pit Boss smokers are celebrated for their versatility and affordability, featuring a combination of wood pellet and traditional charcoal options for a diverse smoking experience.
- Masterbuilt: Masterbuilt is recognized for its electric smokers, which provide ease of use and consistent results, making them a great choice for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
- Weber: Famous for its charcoal grills, Weber also produces high-quality smokers that combine classic design with modern features, appealing to those who prefer traditional smoking methods.
- Camp Chef: Camp Chef offers versatile outdoor cooking solutions, including meat smokers that are user-friendly and equipped with advanced technology for optimal smoking performance.
Traeger: Traeger has revolutionized the smoking experience with its pellet grill technology, allowing for automated temperature control via digital displays. This user-friendly approach makes it easy for both novices and experienced cooks to achieve consistent results, producing flavorful meats and perfectly smoked dishes.
Pit Boss: Pit Boss offers an excellent balance of quality and affordability, making it a popular choice among casual and serious smokers. Their smokers often feature a larger cooking surface and adjustable heat settings, giving users the flexibility to experiment with different smoking techniques and wood flavor profiles.
Masterbuilt: Masterbuilt’s electric smokers are designed for convenience and consistency, featuring built-in thermostats and easy temperature monitoring. This makes them particularly appealing for those who prefer a set-it-and-forget-it approach to smoking, ensuring that meats are cooked evenly without constant supervision.
Weber: Weber’s line of smokers combines traditional charcoal grilling with modern features, offering various sizes and configurations. The classic kettle design allows for excellent heat circulation and smoke retention, making it ideal for those who appreciate the authentic taste and experience of charcoal smoking.
Camp Chef: Camp Chef smokers are designed with versatility in mind, often coming with additional features that enable grilling, baking, and roasting alongside traditional smoking. Their innovative technology, like the PID temperature control system, ensures precise cooking, making them a favorite among outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
What Are the Benefits of Using a Top-Rated Meat Smoker?
The benefits of using a top-rated meat smoker include enhanced flavor, versatility, and improved cooking efficiency.
- Enhanced Flavor: A top-rated meat smoker infuses meats with rich, smoky flavors that are difficult to achieve with traditional cooking methods. The slow cooking process allows the smoke to penetrate the meat, enhancing its taste and creating a delicious crust on the outside.
- Versatility: The best rated meat smokers are designed to accommodate a variety of meats and cooking styles, from brisket and ribs to fish and vegetables. This versatility allows users to experiment with different types of wood chips and marinades, expanding their culinary repertoire.
- Improved Cooking Efficiency: Many top-rated smokers are equipped with advanced features, such as temperature control and timers, which help maintain consistent cooking conditions. This efficiency not only ensures perfectly cooked meat but also allows for more time to be spent enjoying the meal rather than monitoring the cooking process.
- Healthier Cooking Option: Smoking meat can be a healthier alternative to frying or grilling, as it often requires less oil and fat. Additionally, the slow cooking process can help retain more nutrients in the meat, making it a better choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
- Social Experience: Using a meat smoker can create a social cooking experience, as it often involves gathering friends and family for a long cooking session. This communal aspect of smoking meat makes it a perfect activity for barbecues and gatherings, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the meal.
How Can a Good Smoker Enhance Your Cooking Experience?
A good smoker can significantly elevate your cooking experience by enhancing flavors, improving cooking methods, and offering versatility in meal preparation.
- Flavor Enhancement: The best rated meat smokers infuse your meats with rich smoky flavors that can’t be achieved through conventional cooking methods. Various types of wood chips, such as hickory, mesquite, or applewood, can be used to create unique flavor profiles that complement different types of meat.
- Consistent Cooking: High-quality smokers maintain a steady temperature, which is crucial for slow-cooking meats to perfection. This consistency ensures that the meat is cooked evenly, leading to tender, juicy results that highlight the quality of the meat.
- Versatility: A good smoker is not limited to just meats; it can also be used for fish, vegetables, and even desserts. This versatility allows you to experiment with different recipes and cooking techniques, expanding your culinary repertoire.
- Healthier Cooking: Using a smoker can be a healthier option compared to traditional frying or grilling methods, as it often requires less oil and fat. The slow cooking process helps retain the natural juices of the meat while allowing excess fat to drip away.
- Outdoor Cooking Experience: Smoking meat is often an outdoor activity that brings friends and family together. A good smoker encourages social gatherings and creates memorable experiences while enjoying delicious smoked dishes.
- Creative Cooking Techniques: Smokers offer various cooking techniques such as cold smoking, hot smoking, and even smoking cheese. This creativity allows cooks to experiment and find new ways to enjoy their favorite ingredients.