Plug chew |
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Plug tobacco is made by taking sun dried tobacco leaves and hanging them in large curing barns. Once hung, large smoldering fires would be built and the smoke allowed to permeate the tobacco giving it a smoky base flavor. This process could last up to 12 weeks depending on what flavor the manufacturer was trying to achieve. After curing, the tobacco leaves were then placed in wooden barrels where a mix of sweetener, often molasses, and flavorings would be added. The barrels were sealed and the mix allowed to age for up to two years. After aging, the tobacco would be made into a large block with more molasses added. when the block was as thick as a deck of cards, a top layer of dried leaves would be applied and the large block cut into smaller squares. The plug tobacco was extremely popular with farmers and cowboys due to it’s portability and ease of use. |