I used the Excalibur Jalapeno Snack Stick Seasoning. They have gotten rave reviews from everyone that has tried them. I usually only do small batches, the Excalibur seasoning is very convenient.
Jonathon I used 80/20 Beef/Pork with 80/20 lean/fat. The strings have really two purposes, one is to hang them from hooks in the smoker and the second is just appearance.