Apple, cherry, and hickory wood are the best pellets for smoking. Applewood helps to bring sweet notes to the fore, so often go best with poultry or pork. Cherry can be quite a strong flavor, so avoid using it with mild white meats. Instead use it with something more robust like beef short ribs. Hickory has a unique aroma that goes with red meats, like brisket or tri-tip. It can even be blended with other woods like oak or apple to create a very nuanced barbecue flavor.