Exstream BBQ

Origin and speciality

Exstream BBQ is a British brand founded in 2018 and specialising in smoking woods: chips and chunks with a notably broad catalogue of around 16 different wood varieties. Its direct distribution on Amazon EU and manageable pack sizes make it a fine starting point for experimenting with smoke profiles without committing to large sacks.

The product we carry

We have included its mesquite smoking chips. Mesquite is one of the most distinctive smoking woods, with an intense, earthy, faintly sweet smoke traditionally tied to red meats and the tex-mex style. In chip form it is meant for relatively short bursts of smoke: they ignite and release aroma quickly, which suits grilling sessions or a flavour kick at the start of a cook.

Our assessment

Based on the specifications, the judgement of the smoking community and our experience cooking on the Big Green Egg Large, mesquite is a powerful wood best used with restraint: overdone, it can turn bitter, especially on long cooks. In a ceramic kamado with its slow burn, chips are consumed faster than chunks, so for extended sessions you may prefer larger pieces from the same brand. On the plus side, Exstream's range lets you fine-tune your smoke profile without switching suppliers.

Who it is for

Ideal for anyone who wants to explore smoking woods in small, affordable formats, and in particular for fans of mesquite's bold smoke on red meats and rib racks. If you are after a gentle smoke, the apple or cherry from the same catalogue will give you a sweeter, more restrained profile.