Getting that delicious taste using your grill’s upper shelf is simple. If you’re using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals to one side, creating the 2-zone grill setup, i.e. a hot and cool zone. After lighting your charcoal, let the grill heat up. Once hot, use the direct heat side to sear your food, then move your food to the upper shelf, away from the direct heat, and cover the lid. This is where the smoking magic happens. Consider adding wood chips to the charcoal to enhance the aroma.

To achieve the same flavors on a gas grill, begin by soaking some wood chips in water for about 15 to 30 minutes. Turn on your burners to preheat the grill, then drain and add the soaked wood to the built-in smoker box. If your gas grill doesn’t come with a smoker box, you can buy one or make a DIY version using aluminum foil. Once sufficient smoke wafts from the box, dial down the burner under it. Place your food on the lower grates and sear briefly, then move it to the upper shelf and close the lid to capture and impart that deep, smoldering aroma.