Hardwood is best
We recommend looking for kiln dried or properly seasoned hardwoods like Oak, Hickory, Walnut, Ash, and Birch. A blend of these is often referred to as “Mixed Hardwood” by suppliers, and work especially well for cooking. Cherry, Maple, Birch, and Elm are still good choices but not as dense as the others. Softwoods like Pine, Spruce, Hemlock, Aspen, and Cedar will burn much faster and are often used for kindling.