The smell of smoky meats, the tang of tangy sauces, and the camaraderie of gathering around the grill – BBQ is a beloved American tradition that brings people together. But amidst the regional pride and loyal followings, a burning question remains: which state has the best BBQ in 2020?
The Quest for the Perfect ‘Cue
The pursuit of BBQ perfection is a lifelong journey, with enthusiasts traversing the country in search of the holy grail: tender, flavorful, and perfectly smoked meats. From the vinegar-based sauce of the Carolinas to the spicy, sweet, and tangy concoctions of Kansas City, each region boasts its unique style and loyal following.
In 2020, the BBQ landscape is more diverse than ever, with new-school pitmasters putting their own twist on traditional techniques. However, amidst the innovation, some states stand out for their consistency, quality, and dedication to the craft. So, which state can claim the coveted title of BBQ supremacy?
The Contenders
The Carolinas: The Birthplace of BBQ
No discussion of BBQ is complete without mentioning the Carolinas, where the genre was born. North Carolina and South Carolina have been perfecting the art of slow-cooked meats for centuries, with each state boasting its unique style.
In North Carolina, the vinegar-based sauce reigns supreme, with iconic joints like Lexington Barbecue and Skylight Inn serving up tender, smoky goodness. Meanwhile, South Carolina is famous for its mustard-based sauce, with institutions like Maurice’s Piggie Park and Hite’s Bar-B-Q dishing out succulent ‘cue.
Kansas City: The BBQ Capital
Kansas City, Missouri, is arguably the BBQ capital of the world, with over 100 BBQ joints within the city limits. The city’s signature style is a masterclass in balance, with thick, sweet, and tangy sauces complementing the slow-smoked meats.
Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Arthur Bryant’s, and Gates Bar-B-Q are just a few of the iconic joints that have earned KC its rightful place as a BBQ mecca.
Memphis: The Bluff City’s BBQ Renaissance
Memphis, Tennessee, has experienced a BBQ renaissance in recent years, with new-school pitmasters like Central BBQ and Cozy Corner putting their own spin on traditional techniques.
The city’s signature dry-rubbed ribs are a staple, with classics like Corky’s BBQ and Central BBQ serving up mouth-watering ‘cue.
Texas: Beef Country Meets BBQ
Beef-centric Texas may seem like an odd contender in the BBQ world, but the Lone Star State has made significant strides in recent years.
Austin’s Franklin Barbecue and Pecan Lodge in Dallas are just two examples of the state’s BBQ prowess, with slow-smoked brisket, ribs, and sausage earning rave reviews.
The Dark Horse: Alabama’s BBQ Revolution
While Alabama may not be the first state that comes to mind when thinking of BBQ, the Yellowhammer State has been quietly perfecting its craft.
Saw’s BBQ in Birmingham and Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Decatur are just two examples of Alabama’s BBQ Renaissance, with tender, smoky meats and tangy sauces earning loyal followings.
Saw’s BBQ: A Game-Changer in Birmingham
Saw’s BBQ, located in Birmingham’s Avondale neighborhood, has been making waves in the BBQ world with its tender, smoky meats and tangy, vinegar-based sauce.
Owner Mike Wilson’s commitment to quality and consistency has earned Saw’s a loyal following, with the joint frequently named one of the best BBQ spots in the country.
The Verdict: Alabama Takes the Crown
After careful consideration and copious research, we’re declaring Alabama the state with the best BBQ in 2020.
While the Carolinas, Kansas City, Memphis, and Texas all boast exceptional ‘cue, Alabama’s underrated scene has been quietly perfecting its craft, earning the Yellowhammer State the top spot.
With Saw’s BBQ leading the charge, Alabama’s commitment to quality, consistency, and innovation has set a new standard for BBQ excellence.
The Future of BBQ
As the BBQ landscape continues to evolve, one thing is certain – the pursuit of perfection will never waver. New-school pitmasters will continue to push the boundaries, while traditionalists will hold dear the time-honored techniques that have made BBQ a beloved American tradition.
In 2020, Alabama’s BBQ scene has set the bar high, but the gauntlet has been thrown. Which state will rise to the challenge and claim the title of BBQ supremacy in the years to come?
Only time, and the ever-burning passion of BBQ enthusiasts, will tell.
What is the criteria for determining the best BBQ state?
The criteria for determining the best BBQ state involves a comprehensive analysis of various factors, including the quality of BBQ joints, the variety of BBQ styles, and the overall BBQ culture of each state. We also consider the number of BBQ festivals and events, as well as the state’s BBQ history and traditions. Additionally, we review online reviews and ratings from reputable sources, such as Yelp and TripAdvisor, to get a sense of what BBQ enthusiasts and critics are saying about each state’s BBQ scene.
By considering these factors, we can get a well-rounded view of which state truly deserves the title of best BBQ state. Of course, opinions may vary, and different people may have different criteria for what makes great BBQ. However, by using a combination of these factors, we can make a fair and informed decision about which state reigns supreme in the world of BBQ.
How did you determine the top BBQ states?
To determine the top BBQ states, we conducted a thorough review of each state’s BBQ scene, taking into account the factors mentioned earlier. We analyzed online reviews, ratings, and comments from BBQ enthusiasts and critics, as well as local and regional BBQ experts. We also consulted with BBQ pitmasters, restaurateurs, and other industry insiders to get their take on the best BBQ states.
Based on our research, we narrowed down the list to the top 10 BBQ states, and then further refined the list to determine the top 5. We considered factors such as the number of BBQ joints per capita, the variety of BBQ styles, and the overall reputation of each state’s BBQ scene. We also looked at the state’s BBQ history and traditions, as well as the number of BBQ festivals and events.
What is the most popular BBQ style?
The most popular BBQ style is a matter of debate, and opinions tend to vary depending on the region and personal preferences. However, based on our research, we found that the most popular BBQ styles are Texas-style, Kansas City-style, Memphis-style, and Carolina-style BBQ. These styles are well-known and widely popular, and each has its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles.
Texas-style BBQ is known for its beef brisket and dry rubs, while Kansas City-style BBQ is famous for its use of tomato-based sauces and slow-smoked meats. Memphis-style BBQ is known for its sweet and tangy sauces, and Carolina-style BBQ is famous for its vinegar-based sauces and whole hog cooking. Of course, there are many other BBQ styles, and opinions on the best style vary widely.
What is the best way to cook BBQ?
The best way to cook BBQ is a matter of debate, and different pitmasters and BBQ enthusiasts may have different opinions on the subject. However, most experts agree that low and slow cooking is the key to tender, flavorful BBQ. This involves cooking meats over low heat for a long period of time, usually using wood or charcoal as a heat source.
Smoking is another popular method of cooking BBQ, which involves cooking meats over low heat for several hours to infuse them with a rich, smoky flavor. Some pitmasters also use a combination of grilling and smoking to achieve a crispy, caramelized crust on the outside and a tender, juicy interior.
What is the most popular BBQ meat?
The most popular BBQ meat is a matter of debate, and opinions tend to vary depending on the region and personal preferences. However, based on our research, we found that the most popular BBQ meats are brisket, ribs, and pulled pork. These meats are staples of the BBQ scene and are widely popular across different regions and styles.
Brisket is a particular favorite among BBQ enthusiasts, with its tender, flavorful meat and crispy, caramelized crust. Ribs are also extremely popular, with many different styles and flavor profiles to choose from. Pulled pork is another crowd-pleaser, with its tender, juicy meat and tangy BBQ sauces.
What is the best BBQ sauce?
The best BBQ sauce is a matter of personal preference, and opinions tend to vary widely depending on the region and individual tastes. However, based on our research, we found that the most popular BBQ sauces are tomato-based, vinegar-based, and mustard-based sauces. These sauces are staples of the BBQ scene and are widely used across different regions and styles.
Some popular BBQ sauce brands include Sweet Baby Ray’s, Kansas City Masterpiece, and Frankie’s BBQ Sauce. However, many BBQ enthusiasts also swear by homemade BBQ sauces, which can be customized to suit individual tastes and preferences. Ultimately, the best BBQ sauce is the one that you enjoy the most.
Can I make great BBQ at home?
Yes, you can make great BBQ at home, even if you’re not a seasoned pitmaster. With a little practice and patience, you can create delicious, tender, and flavorful BBQ meats in your own backyard. The key is to start with high-quality meats and ingredients, and to pay attention to temperature, time, and technique.
You don’t need to invest in expensive equipment or gadgets to make great BBQ at home. A simple charcoal or gas grill, along with some basic utensils and seasonings, can help you create delicious BBQ meals. You can also experiment with different BBQ styles and recipes to find the one that suits your taste preferences best. With a little practice, you can become a BBQ master in your own right!