Tossing wood chips in the grill imparts hints of smoke to food and can help balance the richness of fattier meats and fish. Smoke in a Cup, from Charcoal Companion, makes it simple to experiment with different hardwoods without investing in large quantities. The disposable aluminum cups ($3 each) are filled with fine wood particles and come in hickory, mesquite, cherry, or apple woods. Place one in a lit charcoal or gas grill under the grate. It lights quickly, and a lid on the cup keeps the wood smoldering for 30 to 40 minutes as a generous amount of smoke is released through a small hole. The scent of aromatic smoke wafting in the air is an added bonus. Available at Kitchenwitch, 671 Centre St., Jamaica Plain, 617-524-6800; Buckalew’s General Store, 504 Main St., Melrose, 781-665-9622; Kitchen Outfitters, 342 Great Road, Acton, 978-263-1955; Eurostoves, 45 Enon St., Beverly, 877-232-0007; The Cook’s Nook, 618 Main St., Chatham, 508-945-0310. ANN TRIEGER KURLAND

Ann Trieger Kurland can be reached at atrieger@comcast.net.