Ah, Spring… that time of year when a man and woman’s thoughts turn to… BBQ! Grilling!
Welcome to a series of articles will take you through a primer on grills and smokers, tools, BBQ and grilling techniques, making your own rub and sauce, BBQ’s four main food groups (chicken, ribs, pork, and beef), appetizers and sides, progressing to pulling it all together for your own complete BBQ event. We’ll finish up the summer with coverage of BBQ competitions including championship team interviews, secrets, what to do (and definitely NOT do at a competition) and general thoughts on how you can become a winning competitor.
My only rule? There are No rules – No secrets. I want you to learn how to ‘own’ your BBQ and grilling and spread knowledge and experience. I never did care for the “it’s a secret” attitude of some BBQ cookers. I intend to answer any and all questions with exactly what and/or how I would do it myself. We’re not going to go much into recipes, though. I want you to learn how to do it right to make your own recipes and accurately judge/modify others. My only humble request is that you pass along the information you deem worthy to others so that everyone’s BBQ and grilling improves.
Now, regarding the “no rules” edict, I suppose it’s already time to break that one. There is one rule. Grilling is cooking over high heat (500-600+) for short periods of time. BBQ is using lower heat (225-275) for a much longer period of time. Yes, a minor distinction, but it is critical when we get into specific discussions of technique. That’s it for rules, well, except one other rule – we NEVER par-boil anything regardless of what family secret has been passed down. Oh, and then there is the rule about ‘fall off the bone’ is actually not a good thing. Gas/charcoal/lump/pellet/log, yes, there’s a rule for that, too. And… well, I’ll save the other ones for later this summer.
No grill on your deck or time for an upgrade? Next week we will be reviewing grills and the many options you have available.
Please use the comments section below to ask your questions, provide ideas, and general tips you may have to offer. I am always looking to learn something new from whatever source possible. Also, we’re considering a BBQ Day in the Chester County area. Where would you like to see it happen?
–MS
When life gives you lumps, make charcoal.
Photographs credited to Michael Scott.
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