has anybody used cocoa bean shells to smoke with?

I haven't tried it, but it sounds interesting!

If you have some on hand, I would suggest trying it on a cheap pork chop or steak and see how you like it. Then report back to the Brethren on how it turned out. :biggrin1:

I never had, but if you go to http://tejaschocolate.com/winnowing-cocoa-beans/ the last writer in the blog mentions he uses them for smoking food and uses them in brewing as well.

I agree with Gnarlbecue.... try it on a smaller piece of meat and use a smaller amount of shells, you can always add more the next time if you like the flavor.