BBQ Myths: Debunked!
If there's one thing that Texans love almost as much as eating BBQ, it's talking about BBQ. And over the years, this beloved cuisine has developed quite a reputation. But unfortunately, not everything appears to be true. Some say that authentic BBQ can only be made in certain states, while others claim that the best BBQ is cooked over an open flame. So what's the truth? Let's take a closer look at some of the most common myths about BBQ and see if we can separate the facts from the fiction.
BBQ History Myths
There are many myths and legends surrounding the history of BBQ. However, the true origins of BBQ are still a mystery.
We know that BBQ began as a way to cook meat over an open fire. This cooking method was often used by nomadic tribes as it was a quick and easy way to prepare food. Over time, spices and marinades began to be added to meats, giving them a unique flavor that soon became popular worldwide. So let's pull apart the truths from the lies and get to the bottom of this delicious debate.
Myth # 1: Barbecue is Derived from the French Term “Barbe à Queue,” Meaning “Beard to Tail”
The Truth:
Though it's now a staple of backyard cookouts and summer potlucks, the origins of the word barbecue are a bit of a mystery. One popular theory holds that it comes from the French word barbe, meaning beard. According to this theory, early European settlers in the Americas used the word to describe the practice of cooking whole pigs with their hair still intact. However, this explanation is regarded as false by most language experts.
The only merit is that it relies on the similar sound of the words, a feature common in folk-etymology explanations.
The word barbecue is derived from the Spanish word barbacoa, which refers to a cooking platform used by the indigenous people of the Americas. It's likely that the French borrowed the term from Spanish colonists in the New World and eventually shortened it to barbecue.
Myth # 2: BBQ Came From the Caribbeans
The Truth:
Although the exact origins of barbecue are unclear, there is no evidence to support the claim that it was invented by the Caribbeans. Instead, the most likely scenario is that barbecue developed independently in different cultures around the world.
The word "barbecue" itself comes from the Spanish word "barbacoa," which refers to a method of slow-cooking meat over an open fire.
This method of cooking was likely introduced to the Caribbean by Spanish colonists. Still, it is unlikely that they were the first to develop it. In fact, there is evidence that similar cooking techniques were being used in other parts of the world long before the Spaniards arrived in the Americas. So while Caribbeans may have played a role in the development of barbecue, it is more likely that they simply adapted an existing culinary tradition to their own culture.
Myth # 3: Brisket and Pork Shoulder Have Always Been Traditional Barbecue Cuts
The Truth:
For many Americans, "barbecue" and "brisket" are synonymous. However, brisket is actually a relatively recent addition to the barbecue canon.
While pork shoulder has been a traditional barbecue cut for centuries, brisket only became popular in the mid-20th century.
Before that, beef was generally considered too tough and fatty to be suitable for smoking. However, German and Central European immigrants introduced the practice of cooking beef brisket, (What wine goes well with beef brisket?) quickly catching on with other barbecue aficionados.
Over time, brisket has become one of the most popular barbecue cuts, revered for its rich flavor and tender texture.
Want to know more facts about Beef Brisket? Learn more here.
Myth # 4: To Qualify as a Proper Barbecue, It Has to Be Made in the South
The Truth:
Many people believe that meat must be made in the South to qualify as a proper barbecue. However, this is simply not true.
There are many excellent barbecue restaurants outside of the south, and some of the best barbecue chefs in the country come from other regions.
In the United States, there are four main types of barbecue:
Texas Style
Kansas City Style
Memphis Style
Carolina Style
Texas Style Barbecue
Texas BBQ is world-famous for its beef ribs, East Texas hot links, and melt-in-your-mouth brisket. However, many people don't know there are multiple regional practices within the greater Texas barbecue tradition.
Central Texas: Pitmasters smoke their brisket over oak and slice it before serving it without sauce.
South Texas: Traditional ways to mesquite-smoke barbecue are pretty different.
Eastern Texas: Tend to favor sausages and chopped beef sandwiches with a spicy, vinegar-based sauce. This sandwich is served with pickles and sliced onions on buttery buns or sandwich wrappers. No matter which region of Texas you're in, you're sure to find some fantastic BBQ!
Texas pitmasters know how to turn a tough cut of meat into something truly delicious. Brisket comes from the lower pectoral muscle of a cow, and it is naturally tough, chewy, and leathery. However, when smoked for 18 hours, it transforms into something unique. The exterior becomes crispy, while the interior is so tender that it flakes like salmon. This dish is truly a labor of love and worth every minute of cooking time. After just one bite, you will see why Texas brisket is world-renowned.
Kansas City Style Barbecue
The city's signature barbecue style is slow-smoking meats over low heat and then coating them in a sweet, sticky sauce. The key ingredient in the Kansas City rub is brown sugar, which helps to caramelize the meat as it cooks. This gives the final dish a deep, rich flavor that is impossible to resist.
Kansas City-style BBQ is all about the burnt ends. Unlike other types of bacon (how long does bacon last?)that are thin and served alongside pancakes, Kansas City bacon is thick, meaty, and full of flavor. This type of bacon is made by pressing and smoking pork shoulders. The result is delicious and hearty bacon that is perfect for any BBQ-lover.
Memphis Style Barbecue
Memphis-style BBQ is all about the pork. While you'll find beef and chicken on some Memphis BBQ menus, pork is really the show's star. And of all the pork dishes you'll find in Memphis, ribs are the crown jewel.
There are two main ways to prepare ribs in Memphis: wet and dry.
Wet ribs are covered in vinegar- and tomato-based sauce before being cooked, while dry ribs are simply rubbed with a spice blend before being cooked. Both wet and dry ribs are then slow-cooked over hickory wood (though other woods like pecan or apple can be used) until they're fall-off-the-bone tender.
Carolina Style Barbecue
Carolina-style whole hog barbeque is one of America's oldest methods of cooking meat. It involves slow-roasting a whole hog for 12 to 24 hours. This cooking method results in three different types of meat: stomach, neck, and shoulders. The stomach meat is tender, while the shoulders and neck are tough. As a result, pitmasters must take extra care to soften the firm portions without charring the delicate stomach meat.
Carolina-style whole hog BBQ is traditionally served with a moistening mop sauce. This sauce helps to keep the meat moist and adds an additional layer of flavor. Carolina-style BBQ is a unique and delicious way to enjoy barbeque pork.
All of these styles have their own distinctive ingredients and cooking methods. The important thing is not where the barbecue is made but how it is prepared. When done correctly, barbecue can be absolutely delicious, no matter where it comes from.
Myth # 5: Barbecue Competitions Identify the Greatest Pitmasters
The Truth:
Barbecue competitions have become increasingly popular in recent years, with cook-offs being held across the country. However, some argue that these competitions do not necessarily identify the greatest pitmasters. After all, a competition barbecue is very different from an everyday barbecue.
Pitmasters who compete regularly must learn how to cook for a panel of judges instead of cooking for themselves or their friends and family. This means that they often focus on creating visually appealing dishes that pack a lot of flavor into each bite. As a result, the barbecue served at competitions can be quite different from the barbecue you might find at your local joint.
While there is no denying that a competition barbecue can be delicious, it may not be representative of the best that barbecue has to offer.
Today, there are many different types of BBQ, each with its distinctive flavor. So whether you prefer your meat cooked low and slow or hot and fast, there's a style of BBQ that will suit your taste. So next time you fire up the grill, remember that you're part of a long and proud tradition.
Myths About Cooking BBQ
Cooking BBQ is a time-honored tradition in Texas, and for good reason. There’s nothing quite like the taste of food that’s been grilled over an open flame.
Myth # 1: Searing Seals in Juices
The Truth:
For many backyard cooks, the debate over whether or not to sear meat before barbecuing is long-standing. The common belief is that searing meat helps to seal in juices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender finished product.
However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
In fact, the reverse may be true. When meat is exposed to high temperatures, the proteins tighten and dry out, making it less juicy. So, while searing may give the meat a nice crust, it's unlikely to significantly impact the finished dish's overall juiciness.
Myth # 2: Only Ever Flip the Steak Once
The Truth:
For many years, the cardinal rule of steak cookery was simple: never flip your steak more than once. The thinking was that flipping the steak too often would result in uneven cooking, with the top and bottom of the steak becoming overcooked while the middle remained raw.
However, recent research has called this rule into question. In fact, flipping your steak multiple times may actually be the best way to ensure even cooking.
By flipping the steak every minute or so, you can create a "crust" on each side that seals in the juices and prevents them from evaporating. As a result, your steak will be evenly cooked from edge to edge, and it will be juicier and more flavorful than if you had only flipped it once. So go ahead and flip your steak as often as you like - it might just be the best way to get that perfect sear.
Myth # 3: Grill Marks Are Essential
The Truth:
When it comes to grilling, there are two key factors that affect the taste and appearance of food: grill marks and the Maillard reaction.
Grill marks are created when the meat comes into contact with the hot grates of the grill, and they can add a nice visual contrast to the finished dish. However, some argue that grill marks don't actually add any flavor to the meat.
The Maillard reaction, on the other hand, is what happens when the meat's sugars and amino acids interact with heat, resulting in complex flavor compounds.
While both grill marks and the Maillard reaction are important, many experts believe that the latter is more essential to the flavor of grilled food. This is because the Maillard reaction creates countless flavor compounds that are simply not present in foods that lack grill marks. As a result, while grill marks may be visually appealing, they are not nearly as important as the Maillard effect when it comes to taste.
Myth # 4: Meat Should Be at Room Temperature Before Cooking
The Truth:
You've probably heard the advice to let your meat "rest" at room temperature before cooking it. However, this is actually a myth that can lead to food poisoning.
According to the USDA, bacteria can multiply at temperatures between 40° F and 140° F in as little as 20 minutes.
So if you leave your meat out on the counter for even an hour, bacteria will start to multiply. By the time you cook the meat, it may already be contaminated. Even worse, the cooking process will not necessarily kill all the bacteria, meaning you could end up sick. So next time you prepare to cook, take your meat straight from the fridge to the grill. Your food will be just as delicious – and much safer.
Myth # 5: Resting After Grilling Is An Absolute Necessity
The Truth:
Some people believe that resting your food after grilling is an absolute necessity. While it is true that resting your food can allow it to retain its juices and prevent it from drying out, it is not always necessary.
For example, if you are grilling thick cuts of meat, you may want to rest them for a few minutes before cutting them. However, if you are grilling thinner cuts of meat or vegetables, you can usually skip the resting period. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not to rest your food after grilling.
Myth # 6: Meat Should Always Fall Off the Bone
The Truth:
While some cuts of meat benefit from being cooked until they fall apart, others are best served just before that point. For example, the chicken breast should be cooked until it is white throughout but still firm to the touch. On the other hand, chicken thighs can be cooked until they are fall-apart tender. The same is true for pork chops and ribs.
The darker and fattier the meat, the more it will benefit from longer cooking.
Myth # 7: Boil Meat to Make It Tender
The Truth:
The words "boil" and "meat" might be mutually exclusive for many people. After all, boiled meat is often tough, dry, and flavorless. So how did this myth get started? One possible explanation is that boiling was once a standard method of cooking tough cuts of meat. Before the advent of modern cooking methods, boiling was one of the only ways to make the tough meat tender.
However, today there are much better ways to cook tough meat. Braising, for example, is a slow cooking method that uses moist heat to break down tough fibers. As a result, braised meat is typically a good option for meat that is tender and full of flavor.
Here's a list of must-have grilling equipment to make your BBQ cookouts a success!
Myths on Checking for Doneness
Myth # 1: Use Your Fingers to Test Doneness
The Truth:
Many believe using their fingers is the best way to test for doneness. This myth likely arose because of the belief that poking the meat would cause it to lose juices and become dry. However, this is not the case.
In fact, using a digital meat thermometer is the best way to ensure that your barbecue is cooked to perfection.
Simply insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat and wait for it to reach the desired temperature. By following this simple method, you can be confident that your next barbecue will be delicious and safe to eat.
Myth # 2: Red or Pink in The Meat Means It’s Underdone
The Truth:
One of the most common myths about meat is that red or pink color means it's underdone. But, in fact, the color of meat is not a reliable indicator of its internal temperature.
A digital food thermometer is the best way to know if meat is cooked. Insert a thermometer into the thickest part of the meat and check that it reads at least 145 degrees Fahrenheit for beef, pork, and lamb or 165 degrees Fahrenheit for chicken and turkey.
Keep in mind that meat will continue to cook after it's been removed from heat, so it's best to err caution and take it out a few degrees before reaching the desired temperature. However, with some practice, you'll be able to tell when meat is cooked to perfection.
Myth # 3: The Red Liquid That Can Sometimes Be Seen Seeping Out of Cooked Meat Is Blood
The Truth:
One of the most persistent myths surrounding meat is that the red liquid that can sometimes be seen seeping out of cooked meat is blood. However, this substance is not blood but a protein known as myoglobin.
Myoglobin is found in muscle tissue and gives meat its distinctive red color.
When meat is exposed to oxygen, myoglobin turns brown, which is why cooked meat often has a darker color than raw meat. However, myoglobin is not always released from muscle cells during cooking. For example, suppose meat is cooked quickly at a high temperature. In that case, the myoglobin may remain trapped inside the cells, resulting in pink or even red-hued meat. So next time you see red liquid seeping out of your steak, rest assured that it's not blood. It's just myoglobin.
Myth # 4: Pink Liquid In the Meat After Cooking Means That It's Not Safe to Eat
The Truth:
Many people believe that if the meat is still pink after cooking, the juices are tainted, and the meat is not safe to eat. This is a myth.
While it is true that pink juices can sometimes indicate that the meat is not cooked all the way through, they are not necessarily harmful.
In fact, many types of meat, such as pork, are often served pink. However, as long as the meat has been properly handled and cooked to the correct temperature, there is no need to worry about the color of the juices.
Myth # 5: The "Pop Test" is the Best Way to Know When The Ribs Are Done Cooking
The Truth:
The pop test is a commonly used method for determining when ribs are done cooking. The theory is that, when appropriately cooked, the collagen in the ribs will break down, and the connective tissue will become tender. As a result, the bones will separate easily and make a popping sound when pressed.
However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. In fact, the pop test is not an accurate indicator of doneness. Ribs are often overcooked, leading to dry, tough meat. Instead of relying on the pop test, it is best to cook ribs until they reach an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that they are tender and juicy without being overcooked.
We’ve dedicated an entire section of the site to this wonderful dish, from finding the best BBQ in Texas to creating your own. If it’s about BBQ, it’s going to be here.
Smoke Ring Myths
Myth # 1: The Smoke Ring Is an Indicator of Quality
The Truth:
Contrary to popular belief, the smoke ring is NOT a sign of skill or flavor. In fact, it has very little to do with the quality of the meat.
The smoke ring is created when the temperature difference between the inside and outside of the meat. This causes the gasses to contract and form a ring around the edge.
The only way to guarantee a smoke ring is to use a "forced convection." This involves using a fan or other device to circulate the air around the meat. It is a process that helps to even out the temperature and prevent the formation of a smoke ring.
However, many pitmasters prefer not to use this method to dry the meat. Ultimately, whether or not you get a smoke ring is largely out of your control.
Myth # 2: A Smoke Ring is Mandatory
The Truth:
Most barbecue enthusiasts believe the perfect smoke ring is the Holy Grail of barbecue. A smoky, pink ring around the edge of a piece of meat is a sign that it has been cooked low and slow. It is a sign that the juices have had a chance to redistribute throughout the meat.
However, contrary to popular belief, a smoke ring is not mandatory. In fact, many factors can affect whether or not a smoke ring forms, including the type of wood used for smoking, the amount of fat on the meat, and even the weather.
Grill Myths
One of the biggest myths about BBQ is that you need a special grill or smoker to make a great BBQ. While it's true that these tools can give your food a unique flavor, they're not essential for making delicious BBQ. All you really need is a reliable heat source - a gas grill, a charcoal grill, or even your oven. You can make a great BBQ by controlling the temperature and creating indirect heat.
Myth # 1: Clean Gas Grills With High Heat
The Truth:
You might have heard that you need to oil your grill before using it to help prevent food from sticking. However, this is actually a myth.
You don't need to oil the grill grates before cooking, as the fat from your food will do the job just fine.
In fact, adding oil to the grates can actually cause problems. The oil can ignite and create flares, or it can collect dirt and debris. So, brush it with a stiff wire before cooking instead of oiling the grill. This will help remove any build-up from the last time you used it and provide a nice rough surface for your food to cling to. So don't waste your time (or your oil) – just give your grill a good scrub before you start cooking.
Myth # 2: Get As Much Smoke Going as Possible
The Truth:
One of the most common myths about grilling is that you need to get as much smoke going as possible. The reality is that too much smoke can actually make your food taste bitter and leave it with a sooty texture.
Aim for moderate smoke when grilling, adding flavor without overwhelming your food.
You can generate smoke by adding wood chips or chunks to your charcoal or gas grill. Be sure to soak the wood in water for at least 30 minutes before adding it to the fire, and only use a small handful at a time so that you don't overload your grill. With a bit of practice, you'll be able to create the perfect amount of smoke for juicy, flavorful grilled dishes.
Myth # 3: Clean Grills Immediately After Cooking
​​The Truth:
As any barbecue enthusiast knows, a clean grill is one of the keys to a perfect grilled steak. It's best to wait until the grill has cooled before attempting to clean it.
The grill's high heat can cause cleaning solutions to evaporate too quickly, making them less effective.
Additionally, scrubbing a hot grill can be dangerous, and it's more likely that you'll end up with burns or other injuries. So next time you're finished grilling, resist the urge to clean up immediately. Instead, wait until the grill has cooled down and give it a good scrub. Your steak will taste just as delicious, and you'll be much safer.
Myth # 4: Tars and Oil Droplets In The Smoke Create the Pellicle and Color in the Food
The Truth:
It's a common myth that tars and oil droplets in the smoke create the pellicle and color in the food. In reality, it's the wood itself that contains certain compounds that are responsible for these aspects of smoked foods. When the wood is heated, these compounds are released into the air and then deposited on the surface of the food, giving it that characteristic flavor and appearance.
If you’re new to grilling, or if you need a refresher, you may read more about it here. This post will teach you the basics of grilling – from selecting the right ingredients to using the right techniques. So fire up your grill and let’s get started!
Flavor Myths
Myth # 1: More Fat Equals More Flavor
The Truth:
For food to absorb the flavors from smoke, there must be enough fat on its surface. But if too much is applied or it's just bare-boned meat, you'll end up with no diffusion of flavor into your meal!
Myth # 2: Only Raw Food Absorbs the Flavor
The Truth:
Have you ever wondered why your food sometimes doesn't taste as flavorful as you'd like? It could be because you're not giving it enough time to absorb the flavor. A common myth is that only raw food absorbs flavor, but that's not the case.
As long as the surface of your food is moist, aromatic vapors will continue to absorb there and diffuse into the food.
So next time you're looking for more flavor in your food, give it some time to absorb all the goodness.
Myth # 3: Membranes in Food Block Flavor
The Truth:
It's a common myth that membranes in food block flavor. But, in fact, the opposite is true!
Membranes actually help to preserve flavor and prevent oxidation.
When food is exposed to oxygen, it can lose its flavor. This is why vacuum-sealed foods often taste fresher than their non-sealed counterparts. By sealing food in a membrane, you're effectively protecting it from oxygen exposure. As a result, the flavor of the food is preserved for longer. So next time you're looking for fresh, flavorful food, don't be afraid to choose something that's been sealed in a membrane.
Myth # 4: Authentic BBQ Should Be Cooked Without Any Additional Flavorings
The Truth:
One of the great debates in the world of BBQ is whether or not to add additional flavorings to the meat. Some purists believe that the meat's natural flavors should be allowed to shine through. In contrast, others argue that some seasoning can enhance the taste. So, what's the verdict?
It turns out that there is no right or wrong answer - it all depends on personal preference.
If you enjoy the taste of grilled meat with nothing but a light coating of oil, then, by all means, go for it. However, if you prefer your food with a little more flavor, there's no shame in adding a few spices to your BBQ grill. In fact, sauces and rubs can enhance the flavor of your food and help create a signature taste that distinguishes your BBQ from everyone else's.
The important thing is to experiment and find out what you like best. After all, the best BBQ is the kind that makes you happy.
Summary
With so many myths and legends surrounding BBQ, it can be hard to know what's true and what's not. But with this information, you'll be able to cook up a delicious barbecue that everyone will enjoy - no matter their opinion on the perfect recipe.
Do you want to plan a BBQ based on the produce available near you? Visit a farmers’ market today or check out our TexasRealFood Promptuary here.
For more BBQ updates, here is Your Ultimate Texas BBQ Guide.
Looking for the best brisket restaurants in Texas? Click here.
For the best BBQ restaurants in San Antonio, here’s a list.
Want to learn how to cook steakhouse quality steaks? Click here.
Check out the ultimate guide to Texas barbecue at home tips and tricks here.
