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“You Can’t Hurry Ribs” And Other Great Food Tunes You Can Burn

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Here are about 150 great BBQ and food tunes including Meathead’s theme song ‘You Can’t Hurry Ribs’ based on ‘You Can’t Hurry Love’ by Diana Ross.

Published On: 7/11/2022 Last Modified: 12/1/2022

Food Photography Gear

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you want to start a career in food photography why start from scratch. Here’s some proven to get the job done and produce stunning results.

Published On: 7/11/2022 Last Modified: 1/2/2023

Hardwood foodgrade pellets

Foodgrade hardwood pellets are available from multiple suppliers and supply a consistent source of heat and smoke for your pellet smoker.

Published On: 7/11/2022

Meathead’s Amazing Smoked Pork Seasoning & Dry Brine

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This smoked variation on my famous Memphis Dust recipe takes it to the next level. Sprinkle one tablespoon per pound of meat two hours or more before cooking. Called “dry brining,” the salt gets wet, ionizes, becomes a brine, and slowly penetrates deep, enhancing flavor and juiciness while building a nice crusty “bark” on the surface. Sprinkle […]

MSRP:$14.50

Published On: 7/9/2022 Last Modified: 7/11/2022

Meathead’s Amazing Smoked Red Meat Seasoning & Dry Brine

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Our red meat rub and dry brine is perfect for steaks, brisket, beef roasts, beef ribs, burgers, lamb, venison, duck, and goose. Mix with cream cheese to make a super Boursin-like cheese spread or sour cream to make a dip.

MSRP:$14.50

Published On: 7/9/2022 Last Modified: 7/11/2022

Meat And Seafood Suppliers Who Sell Online And Mail Order

Many of our favorite meat suppliers now ship right to your door. Here are some suppliers of prime rib roasts, aged ribeyes, wagyu brisket, Berkshire pork, and other meats we love.

Published On: 2/7/2022 Last Modified: 10/27/2022

Great BBQ And Other Food Products Delivered Straight To Your Door

We’re always on the lookout for excellent food to recommend. Now, some of our favorite BBQ joints ship ribs, pulled pork and brisket direct to you, as well as countless other restaurants and food brands.

Published On: 2/7/2022 Last Modified: 10/19/2022

Steakhouse Steaks Made Easy: A Downloadable Deep Dive

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Dave Joachim

Whenever steak is on the menu, it’s a special occasion. But why spend a fortune eating at a steakhouse when you can make them better at home? In this e-book, we cover everything you need to know to do them right!

MSRP:$3.99

Published On: 12/31/2021 Last Modified: 4/26/2023

Turkey On The Grill Or Smoker Made Easy: A Downloadable Deep Dive

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Brigit Binns

Make the most delicious turkey you’ve ever experienced with this in-depth tutorial.

This Version 2 is significantly expanded and improved.

Turkey – it’s America’s bird, the apple pie of poultry! Most of us relegate turkey to the Thanksgiving or Christmas table only. Try as we might, we at AmazingRibs.com just can’t understand this! Turkey, when properly cooked, […]

MSRP:$3.99

Published On: 11/3/2021 Last Modified: 4/26/2023

Barbecue Chicken Made Easy: A Downloadable Deep Dive

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Brigit Binns

With “Barbecue Chicken Made Easy: Everything You Need To Know About Amazing Chicken On the Grill & Smoker” by Meathead and Brigit Binns, you can master the art of perfectly grilled and smoked chicken. Say goodbye forever to charred skin, burnt sauce and undercooked meat. Explore chicken recipes, tips, and so much more.

MSRP:$3.99

Published On: 10/11/2020 Last Modified: 1/10/2023

Amazing Ribs Made Easy: A Downloadable Deep Dive

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

Discover everything you need to know for preparing America’s favorite food, pork ribs, with this comprehensive book. In it you’ll find several tasty recipes, a glossary of rib terminology, a guide to prepping ribs including how to remove the membrane and trim them, recommended smokers and grills, and so much more.

MSRP:$3.99

Published On: 7/1/2020 Last Modified: 4/27/2023

Sous Vide Que Made Easy: A Downloadable Deep Dive

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

By marriage of water and fire, sous vide with the grill and smoker, we can achieve extraordinary results, in some cases, better than with either cooking method on its own. You can get extraordinarily tender, juicy, safe, and flavorful foods.
With this exclusive book you will learn all the basics of sous vide que.

MSRP:$3.99

Published On: 1/14/2020 Last Modified: 4/26/2023

FinaMill Battery-Powered Pepper And Spice Grinder Starter Pack Review

By:

Max Good, Full time grill tester

Elegant, attractive, and well-made; we love FinaMill! The ease of use is second to no other spice grinder we’ve seen. And the price is surprisingly affordable. Check out our full review.

MSRP:$49.99

Published On: 5/31/2023 Last Modified: 6/6/2023

Meathead’s Amazing Tuscan Herb Poultry Seasoning & Dry Brine

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Our Tuscan herb poultry rub and dry brine has parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, and other goodies, all singing in harmony. Wh “dry brining,” the salt gets wet, ionizes, becomes a brine, and slowly penetrates deep, enhancing flavor and juiciness.

MSRP:$14.50

Published On: 7/9/2022 Last Modified: 7/11/2022

June Oven Premium Review

By:

Max Good, Full time grill tester

In the market for the perfect multi-function smart oven? June is versatile, effective, and fun! A few concerns arose in our tests, but whatever reservations we had were eclipsed by our love for the unit during the testing process. We award The June Oven our top AmazingRibs.com Platinum Medal.

MSRP:$999

Published On: 4/13/2022 Last Modified: 7/21/2022

EndGrain: The Cadillac Of Cutting Boards

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

Selecting the right cutting board isn’t always a simple task but the team at EndGrain make it easier with this rated and reviewed collection of premium wood boards.

MSRP:$150 to $350

Published On: 1/26/2022 Last Modified: 12/5/2022

GreenPan Valencia Pro Nonstick Pan Review

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The new breed of nonstick ceramic pots and pans are by far the best of any nonsticks, and GreenPan is at the top of the pack. As slippery as a pickpocket, this pan allows eggs to slide out like a downhill skier. Check out our review of GreenPan nonstick pans, which have several advantages over Teflon.

Published On: 10/13/2020 Last Modified: 12/12/2021

Give The Gift Of Membership With The AmazingRibs.com Pitmaster Club Gift Card

By:

Dave Joachim

We can up your game! The Pitmaster Club is a real barbecue community, a place to learn, make friends, and have fun. Membership is only $23.95 a year. Give someone the gift of membership and they’ll receive a gift that keeps on giving!

MSRP:$40.00

Published On: 8/13/2020 Last Modified: 12/5/2021

Gunter Wilhelm Premier ProCut 10 Inch Serrated Offset Bread Knife

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The Gunter Wilhelm Premier ProCut 10 inch Serrated Bread Knife is a superb blade with a wicked sharp cutting edge that is also drop dead gorgeous.

Published On: 7/14/2020 Last Modified: 3/10/2021

Gunter Wilhelm Premier ProCut 8 Inch Chef Knife

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This is a superb chef knife with a wicked sharp 15 degree cutting edge that is also drop dead gorgeous.

Published On: 7/14/2020 Last Modified: 3/10/2021

Upper Deck Stainless Steel Grate For Weber Kettle

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This stainless steel rack adds a lot of additional space to your 22″ Weber Kettle. Perfect for grilling, smoking, and warming buns, meats, and veggies. For indirect cooking you can double your output.

Published On: 1/20/2020 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Grilltastic Introduces The Best Grill Brush Ever

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This superb Grilltastic grill brush is well built but its superpower is that it sprays steam and that removes everything, including all grease and carbon, in a hurry. Simply fill the water tank, plug it in, click the switch, and in a few seconds the 1500 watt steam generator will have the grates looking like new.

Published On: 10/18/2019 Last Modified: 7/13/2021

Breville Pizzaiolo Smart Pizza Oven, Rated And Reviewed

By:

Dave Joachim

The Breville Pizzaiolo smart pizza oven looks like a stylish countertop toaster oven, but gets cranking to temperatures above 750ÂşF! Read our review because that’s unheard of for any home oven.

MSRP:$999.00

Published On: 9/9/2019 Last Modified: 11/9/2022

Beat the Heat With Weber Long Handled Tongs And Spatula Set

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

A quality set of spatula and tongs are essential for good grilling. We recommend those with long handles such as the Weber Original 2-Piece Stainless Steel Grilling Tool Set as they keep you as far from the heat as possible. The set is dishwasher safe, while the soft touch handles offer comfortable non-slip grip.

Published On: 4/15/2019 Last Modified: 7/14/2021

Mercer Culinary Granton Edge Slicer Makes Slicing Brisket a Breeze

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

Create perfect slices of brisket, tenderloin, or roast with the Mercer Culinary M23011 Millennia 11-Inch Granton Edge Slicer, an inexpensive workhorse used by countless professional kitchens. Its 11-inch length makes slicing large cuts of meat a breeze while the scalloped edge ensures the meat won’t stick to the blade.

Published On: 3/8/2019 Last Modified: 3/3/2021

Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro Review

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

Say goodbye to subpar toasters and toaster ovens and hello to the amazing multi-function Breville BOV845BSS Smart Oven Pro 1800 W Convection Toaster Oven! whether its toasting bagels, baking cookies, or re-heating pizza, this top notch toaster oven can do it all while heating up in a fraction of the time of your oven.

Published On: 3/7/2019 Last Modified: 2/17/2022

The Flippin’ Awesome Backyard Griddle Cookbook

Grill up a mess of delicious eats in your own backyard. With the tips, techniques and recipes in this book, you can cook authentic diner and burger joint recipes in no time, including Diner-Style Omelets, Buttermilk Pancakes, Smashed Burgers, Asian Seared Salmon, and Grilled Pineapple with Ice Cream.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 3/30/2022

RSVP Endurance Stainless Steel Measuring Spoons Review

By:

Charlotte Wager

What can go wrong with measuring spoons? A lot. Trying to fit them into little spice jars is the worst. These rectangular measuring spoons from RSVP make it so much easier. The 18/8 stainless steel set includes everything from 1 tablespoon down to 1/8 teaspoon. Read our review here.

Published On: 11/13/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

Professional Brazilian Steakhouse Knife Set

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Machine washable professional Brazilian steak knife set hand selected by Meathead.

Published On: 11/12/2018 Last Modified: 7/20/2021

Work Sharp Ken Onion Edition Knife & Tool Sharpener Is a Workhorse

By:

Dave Joachim

The Work Sharp Ken Onion Edition Knife & Tool Sharpener is a workhorse. This smartly designed electric sharpener can handle an amazing array of knives and blades and is easily adjustable to almost any blade angle. It’s fairly inexpensive, too.

Published On: 11/3/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

Cave Tools Stainless Steel Pulled Pork Shredders and BBQ Meat Rake

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

Shred smoked pork butts, chuck roasts, chicken, and more with ease thanks to our highly rated Cave Tools Stainless Steel Pulled Pork Shredders and BBQ Meat Rake. Unlike plastic shredders, these are made from 430-grade stainless steel and feature comfortable polybutylene succinate (PBS) plastic handles.

Published On: 10/8/2018 Last Modified: 2/16/2023

The Best Stand Mixer For A Kitchen’s Biggest Tasks

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

A quality stand mixer is definitely an investment but there is very little that a beast like the KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer can’t handle, especially with the countless accessories that are offered. If, however, you only need to whisk and blend, a KitchenAid hand blender does a great job and saves a lot of space.

MSRP:$600

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Corkscrews: Screwpulls and Imitators

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The finest corkscrew ever designed is a gadget called the Screwpull. Actually there are three excellent models of Screwpull and there are some Screwpull imitators that work pretty well. At the center of the concept is an extra-long, wire helix with an extra wide spiral and an extra sharp tip for piercing corks.

Published On: 6/30/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

The Science of Good Food by David Joachim and Andrew Schloss

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The authors explain what ingredients are made of, how they behave when cooked, and how various methods work. A very thorough A to Z encyclopedia of food science.

Published On: 6/21/2018 Last Modified: 3/7/2021

Keys to Good Cooking: A Guide to Making the Best of Foods and Recipes by Harold McGee

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

From the country’s foremost expert on the science of cooking, Harold McGee, Keys to Good Cooking is a concise and authoritative guide designed to help home cooks navigate the ever-expanding universe of ingredients, recipes, food safety, and appliances, and arrive at the promised land of a satisfying dish.

MSRP:$35.00

Published On: 6/21/2018 Last Modified: 3/7/2021

On Food and Cooking: The Science and Lore of the Kitchen by Harold McGee

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you want to know why we do what we do in the kitchen, not just what to do or how to do it, this fat tome is a must have.

MSRP:$40.00

Published On: 6/21/2018 Last Modified: 3/7/2021

The Food Lab, Better Home Cooking Through Science by J. Kenji Lopez-Alt

This is the best cookbook I own. It has also won the Cookbook of the Year from the International Association of Culinary Professionals, and a James Beard Award.

MSRP:$49.95

Published On: 6/21/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

Franklin Barbecue: A Meat-Smoking Manifesto by Aaron Franklin and Jordan Mackay

Franklin Barbecue in Austin is widely considered the best in the world and people stand in line for hours to get in.

MSRP:$18.75

Published On: 6/19/2018 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Steak: One Man’s Search for the World’s Tastiest Piece of Beef by Mark Shatzker

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This book is great story telling as we follow an inquisitive writer on his quest for great steak.

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Planet Barbecue! by Steven Raichlen

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Beautifully photographed in color, this book won a Julia Child Cookbook Award. Raichlen’s most recent book, it is the best of his five barbecue books.

MSRP:$23.00

Published On: 6/17/2018 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Meat 2.3-Ounce Injector Gets The Job Done On a Budget

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This heavy 304 grade stainless steel injector (most others are plastic or a cheaper metal with a chrome coat) holds 2 ounces of fluid and comes with three needles, an 8 cm (3″) for thin cuts of meat, and two 15 cm (6″) needles for thicker cuts.

Published On: 5/24/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

CharGon Grill Grate Cleaner Works Better Than a Brush

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

CharGon is a solidly build grill grate cleaner with a U-shaped tip that makes it easy to scrape the tops, sides, and bottoms of round grill grates with no risk of rogue bristles and the health hazard they present.

Published On: 5/23/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

Spot Remover Takes Care Of Food And Grill Grease Stains

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A spot remover that will remove the grease stains on almost all my shirts is something I considered to be as elusive as unicorns and perpetual motion machines. So I bought a 2 ounce bottle and tried it. One drop was enough clean a shirt so well that I could not find where the stain had been originally.

Published On: 5/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

GrillGrates: The Perfect Temperature Control Tool For Grills

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

GrillGrates are an amazing invention featuring reversible interlocking panels that increase the grill surface temperature, reduce flare-ups, and deliver perfect sears. GrillGrates also come in a variety of shapes and sizes so that you can customize them according to the size of your gas, charcoal, or pellet grill.

Published On: 5/22/2018 Last Modified: 11/28/2022

Kyocera Pepper Mill Makes It Easy to Adjust the Grind

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The Kyocera Everything Mill Adjustable Grinder allow you to dial in the size of your grind from coarse to fine and it grinds all kinds of spices from pepper and salt to coriander and cumin. Fresh ground pepper has much more flavor than the pre-ground. And the size of the grind matters making this a perfect choice.

Published On: 5/21/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

Garlic Press: A Kitchen Gadget You’ll Actually Use

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A good garlic press is an important kitchen tool and the Trudeau Garlic Press is the perfect choice. The Trudeau press is sturdily built, and is easy to grip. It’s also quite easy to clean, and has a large hopper to hold big cloves. Avoid non-stick garlic presses.

Published On: 5/21/2018 Last Modified: 2/16/2023

Weber’s Grill Pan Sears and Lets Some Smoke Through

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The Weber Style Grill Pan has plenty of slots for smoke to travel through, and plenty of surface to brown things like salmon cakes. Handles make it easy to position on the grill and to carry food from your prep area to the grill and back.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/4/2021

Big Poppa BBQ Mats Are the Best Way to Smoke Small Things Like Nuts

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Big Poppa BBQ Mats are a sturdy wire mesh screens with a non-stick coating capable of resisting grill temperatures, and they are easy to clean. Use them to grill jalapeno poppers, onion rings, potato slices, mushrooms, bacon, and biscuits, and to dehydrate tomatoes and smoke nuts.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

Culina Grill Basket Is Like A Frying Pan For Your Grill

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Grill toppers are essential for grilling and smoking small objects such as slices of onion and peppers, and nuts, and I prefer them for small chunks of meat rather than skewers. I also prefer mesh types like this Culina Stainless Steel Mesh Vegetable Grilling Basket one because they let in more smoke and flavor.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

Weber’s Inexpensive Rib Rack Helps You Get More Ribs On

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Expand the number of racks of ribs you can cook at one time with this handy tool. Thanks to the Weber Original Rib Rack For Grilling, you can fit five slabs of ribs on a small grill, holding them upright with enough airspace between them to allow airflow and smoke penetration.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/11/2021

Paint on BBQ Sauce With a Silicone Basting Brush

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Silicone brushes are the best thing to happen to barbecue since the charcoal briquet. I long ago relegated my natural and nylon bristle brushes to cleaning computer keyboards. Silicone brushes load up with lots of sauce, deliver it evenly, and are easy to clean and decontaminate.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

The Best Charcoal Starter, The Weber Charcoal Chimney

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you’re in the market for a great charcoal starter, there is no reason to look any further than the Weber charcoal chimney. The Weber brand of chimney is my favorite by far and it lasts longer than the cheaper models. A Weber chimney holds about five quarts, or about 80 briquets. You can also cook on it!

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 4/25/2021

OXO Good Grips Stainless Food Scale with Pull-Out Display Review

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

I don’t know how I lived without a good, accurate digital kitchen scale for so many years. If you ever mix up anything with flour, weigh it instead of measuring it with cups. It’s so much more accurate.

Published On: 5/18/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

G & F 8115 Premium Grain Leather Gloves Reviewed And Rated

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

Made from genuine grain cowhide and suede with a cotton lining, The G and F Premium Grain Leather Gloves are an excellent option when seeking high heat gloves though prolonged contact with direct flame is not advised. The gloves have 14.5 inch sleeves to protect your forearms and can be washed with soap and water.

Published On: 5/17/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

The Slow ‘N Sear, The Single Best Accessory For The Weber Kettle Ever

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

For about $90 you can easily convert a standard Weber Kettle into a much better grill as well as a smoker capable of making restaurant quality smoked ribs, pulled pork, beef brisket, turkey, salmon, or whatever you want to smoke.

MSRP:$99.99

Published On: 5/14/2018 Last Modified: 1/23/2023

SteakAger PRO 40 Reviewed And Rated

By:

Rick Gresh

In order to ensure safe dry aging at home, SteakAger PRO 40 features humidity control and a UVC light to manage bacterial growth. All in all, the PRO 40 is a good choice for steak lovers who need capacity, have the budget, and want to knock their guests’ taste buds out of the park.

MSRP:$1089

Published On: 5/3/2023

UMAi Dry Steak Aging Bag Reviewed And Rated

By:

Rick Gresh

Dry aged steaks are gaining popularity coast-to-coast. Dry aging makes beef develop a distinct, appealing, and interesting flavor but equipment for doing it at home can be expensive. That’s why Umai Dry’s affordable dry aging bags are popular. Read our full review and rating.

MSRP:$24

Published On: 1/25/2023

Steak Locker Home Dry Age Fridge SL150 Reviewed And Rated

By:

Rick Gresh

Commercial steakhouses use specialized equipment for dry aging large quantities of meat and now there are several home options. Here’s award-winning Chicago chef Rick Gresh’s review of The Steak Locker.

MSRP:$1799

Published On: 11/30/2022 Last Modified: 1/31/2023

Funny barbecue hats

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Check out the custom barbecue gear we’ve designed to entertain your family and guests at your next barbecue!

Published On: 7/11/2022

Flame King Cylinder Refill Kit Saves Money And The Environment

By:

Big Jim Maivald

The Flame King refill kit offers an easy and affordable means to refill 1 lb. propane cylinders to save money and the environment.

MSRP:$43.99

Published On: 5/24/2022 Last Modified: 12/5/2022

Green Mountain Grills Wood Fired Pizza Attachment Review

By:

Dave Joachim

Want to get more from your pellet smoker? How about wood-fired pizza? The Green Mountain Grills Wood Fired Pizza Attachment expands the capabilities of your pellet cooker far beyond low and slow smoking. Read our review to see just how hot this inexpensive attachment gets and to see the gorgeous pizzas we baked on it.

MSRP:$129.95

Published On: 10/19/2020 Last Modified: 9/24/2021

LED Concepts BBQ Grill Light With Magnetic Base And Clamp

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

The weather resistant LED Concepts’ BBQ Grill Light features super bright LED lights, a 22-inch flexible gooseneck that rotates 360 degrees, a magnetic base, and a clamp for grills with non-magnetic surfaces such as stainless steel. All of that for approximately $20! The only downside? The LED bulbs aren’t replaceable.

MSRP:$21.99

Published On: 8/5/2020 Last Modified: 3/10/2021

Steak And Cake by Elizabeth Karmel

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

So you’re asking yourself “how many steak recipes are there?” Well, far more than even I dreamed. In this case, about 50 steaks and 50 cakes, each paired. This is the definition of indulgent.

Published On: 7/15/2020 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Serial Griller, Grillmaster Secrets For Flame-Cooked Perfection by Matt Moore

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A fun, beautifully photographed cross country visit with some of the top grillers in the nation including Meathead

Published On: 7/14/2020 Last Modified: 8/23/2022

The Griddle Hood Review

By:

Paul Sidoriak

The Griddle Hood from Yukon Glory is a useful accessory for outdoor griddles. It works with almost nearly every outdoor griddle on the market. On a typical 36 inch griddle, the hood will cover about half the cooking surface, helping to trap heat, melt cheese, and block wind. Check out our full review.

MSRP:$99.99

Published On: 4/8/2020 Last Modified: 3/10/2021

Sear Daddy Turns Your Pellet Cooker Into A True Pellet Griller

Looking to get a great sear from your pellet cooker? The Sear Daddy Universal Pellet Grill Searing Station replaces your cooker’s current heat diffuser with a funnel shaped one. Its “flavorizer bars” and lava rocks create a dedicated searing station with 360 square inches of grill space. Read our full review.

MSRP:$99.00

Published On: 3/12/2020 Last Modified: 5/11/2021

Thin Blue Smoke by Doug Worgul

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Check out our review of Thin Blue Smoke by Doug Worgul. It’s the first novel we’ve ever reviewed on this site. If you’re a fan of good writing, good barbecue, and good stories, we highly recommend pulling up a chair, pouring a couple fingers of your favorite libation, and settling into this book.

MSRP:$14.39

Published On: 2/19/2020 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Heavy D Amps Up The Smoke in Most Pellet Cookers

Want more smoke from your pellet cooker? The Heavy D Stick Burning Heat Diffuser replaces your cooker’s current heat diffuser and includes perforated chambers for holding wood logs or chunks that generate smoke for about 2 hours. Read our full review.

MSRP:$125

Published On: 1/27/2020 Last Modified: 9/24/2021

We Discover The Best Burger Flippers Ever

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

These double spatulas, or oversize tongs if you prefer, made from sturdy stainless steel, are the best thing to happen to burgers since buns and fish filets since tartar sauce. Slip it under the burger or filet, clamp down, flip and gently slide back onto the grates. No more broken burgers or filets.

Published On: 5/19/2019 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

Hestan Cue Smart Cooking System Review

By:

Paul Sidoriak

Create perfect dishes every time with the Hestan Cue Smart Cooking System, an induction cooker controlled by an app from your smart phone or tablet via Bluetooth. Sensors in both the base unit and pan or pot communicate with each other to keep your food in the proper temperature zone for cooking any particular dish.

Published On: 5/5/2019 Last Modified: 5/5/2021

Clean Grill Grates Safely With The 3 Sided Weber Grill Brush

Remove excess debris from your grill grate between cooks with this 18-inch 3-sided brush from Weber. Unlike some brushes that can lose bristles and end up in food for possibly deadly results, this Y-shaped brush features interwoven bristles. Equally its long handle keep you a safe distance from the grill’s heat.

Published On: 4/16/2019 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Simply Works Sous Vide Lid for Anova Precision Sous Vide Review

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

For owners of the Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker the Simply Works Sous Vide Lid for Anova is a must own. This silicone lid designed to cover an 11-inch stock pot and features a cutout specifically sized to fit the Joule. The lid also features a hook and handle for opening.

Published On: 3/21/2019 Last Modified: 5/5/2021

Simply Works Sous Vide Lid for Joule Sous Vide Review

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

If you’re a frequent user of the popular ChefSteps Joule sous vide immersion circulator, then the Simply Works Sous Vide Lid for Joule is a must own. This silicone lid designed to cover an 11-inch stock pot and features a cutout specifically sized to fit the Joule. The lid also features a hook and handle for opening.

Published On: 3/21/2019 Last Modified: 5/5/2021

Stasher 10-Inch Reusable Silicone Sous Vide Bag Review

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

Made of 100% pure platinum silicone, the Stasher re-usable sous vide bag is a great way to cut down on unnecessary plastic waste. Unlike traditional plastic bags, Stasher bags contain no BPA, no PVC, and no latex thereby keeping your food safe from contaminants. Simply insert the food, seal, and submerge!

Published On: 3/21/2019 Last Modified: 5/5/2021

Breville Joule Sous Vide Review and Rating

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

While there are countless sous vide immersion circulators currently available, one of our favorites is the Breville Joule, a sleek unit that not only performs extremely well, its compact shape fits easily in a kitchen drawer. WiFi and Bluetooth enabled, the Joule works in conjunction with the Breville/ChefSteps app.

Published On: 3/20/2019 Last Modified: 5/5/2021

Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker Review

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

Join the sous vide revolution with the Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker, a Bluetooth enabled self-contained heating and circulation unit that enables you to produce results that are impossible to achieve through any other cooking method. Here is our full review of this handy and compact immersion circulator.

Published On: 3/20/2019 Last Modified: 8/29/2022

BBQ Dragon Fans The Flames To Perfection

By:

Max Good, Full time grill tester

BBQ Dragon is a great product that accelerates startup of a fire with a battery operated fan. The Dragon creates a rip roaring, sear-hot coal fire in less than ten minutes. Clamp it on or bend the stainless steel goose neck into a circular base to rest on a flat surface then turn it on and let it work its magic.

Published On: 12/8/2018 Last Modified: 7/18/2022

1,001 Best Grilling Recipes

The definitive book on grilling everything from appetizers and side dishes to lamb, beef, hamburgers, sausages, fish & shellfish, wild game, chicken, game birds, turkey, pork, and desserts. Author Rick Browne is among the country’s best-known grilling authorities, and this book is the only grilling book you’ll need.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

The Best Barbecue on Earth

With this groundbreaking book, you can experience grilling across 6 continents in 25 countries with 170 recipes. Here’s where barbecue goes global: pitmaster Rick Browne travels all over the world to bring you the best outdoor-cooking recipes on earth, all adapted for American grills and kitchens.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

The Ultimate Guide to Grilling

Rick Browne has traveled across America and tasted everything it has to offer. In The Ultimate Guide to Grilling, Rick shares recipes for all kinds of barbecue concoctions like Coca Cola Chicken, BBQ’d Apple Pie, and Rodney’s Tequila Porterhouse. This book is indispensable for all kinds of barbecue fanatics.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

The New Wine Country Cookbook

The New Wine Country Cookbook. Move over Napa, here is the only up-to-date, stunningly photographed gift book available on California’s hottest, fastest-growing wine country, the Central Coast, with 120 wine-friendly and wine-inclusive recipes.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

The Cook & The Butcher

Here are 100 delicious recipes using popular cuts of meat, plus loads of tips from America’s favorite butchers. Each chapter begins with quick-cooking cuts and easy methods like stir-frying, then progresses to grilling, pan-frying, roasting, and braising. The perfect book for meat lovers and aspiring butchers.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 2/15/2022

Kissed by Fire

This book is a must-have for anyone with a wood-burning oven. It helps you develop an instinct for the primal force of fire itself. You’ll also learn to cook by sight and sound. Find tips on tools and enjoy dishes as varied as Wood-Oven-Baked Eggs, Ultimate Thyme-Roasted Chicken, and Wood-Grilled Cowboy Steaks.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Barbecue: Fire and Smoke

Barbecue: Fire and Smoke explains in detail how to create true barbecue using indirect heat and smoke along with plenty of reliable recipes. Learn which cuts of meat are best suited for barbecue and how to flavor, smoke and grill them. There’s even a chapter on building your own large insulated offset smoker.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Exclusively Kamado: Great Recipes For Your Ceramic Cooker

Exclusively Kamado features 50 innovative recipes for your ceramic smoker and grill. Enjoy the kamado’s amazing ability to enhance the flavor of food with dishes like Hickory-Smoked Beef Tri-Tip, Chimichurri Spiced Ribs, Salt Block Grilled Bass, Grilled Stuffed Artichokes, and Brie in Puff Pastry.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 12/29/2021

A Man, A Can, A Grill

David Joachim is back with 50 no sweat recipes you can fire up fast. Feast on hearty, healthy fare like Beer-Flamed Fajitas, Badass BBQ Chicken, Jah Mon Jerk Pork, Fungus Amungus Burgers, and more. Step-by-step instructions and full-color photographs make cooking foolproof for even the most culinarily challenged dudes.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Mastering the Grill: The Owner’s Manual for Outdoor Cooking

This New York Times bestselling grill guide helps you understand the science of grilling so you can transform it into an art. Find hundreds of tips and techniques, mouthwatering photos, and 350 surefire recipes, including everything from rubs and marinades to appetizers, entrees, side dishes, and desserts.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Williams Sonoma Grill School

From bestselling authors and grill experts David Joachim and Andrew Schloss comes Williams-Sonoma Grill School: 150+ Recipes & Essential Lessons for Cooking on Fire. This all-inclusive guide to grilling features 30 easy-to-master lessons, dozens of failproof techniques, and over 100 mouthwatering recipes.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

The Tailgater’s Cookbook

This cookbook provides 75 must-have recipes to make at the game or take along for tailgating. Feast on beer boiled shrimp, Memphis style ribs, and sophisticated desserts like tiramisu. Also includes tips on planning and essential equipment for cooking up a great party in the parking lot.

Published On: 11/26/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Multi Attachment Stick Blender Does It All

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

Unlike the stand-alone single task stick blender, I have simply fallen in love with my KitchenAid 3-speed stick blender that not only purees liquids in the pot, it also converts to an electric whisk for whisking eggs or cream; a mini food processor with locking lid for chopping small ingredients; and more.

Published On: 11/19/2018 Last Modified: 2/24/2021

BBQ Dragon Spin Grate Makes Charcoal Grilling Easier

By:

Paul Sidoriak

The BBQ Dragon Spin Grate rotates 360 degrees, making cooking on round kettle grills much simpler. Spin it to avoid flareups or easily switch between direct and indirect heat. The grate is hinged so you can easily add wood or charcoal, or adjust your fire without removing the grill grate. Read our full review.

Published On: 11/14/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

HomeRight Charcoal Starter Lights Coals Fast

By:

Paul Sidoriak

The HomeRight ElectroLight Fire Starter gets your charcoal, fireplace, or wood stove ignited quickly. Up to 1300ÂşF of hot air lights a piece of wood or a pile of charcoal in about two minutes. When the unit gets dangerously hot, it will not re-start until it’s safe to do so. Click to read our full review.

Published On: 11/14/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

The Spoon Spatula Combo Tool You Can’t Live Without

By:

Charlotte Wager

Called a “Mini Supoon” by the manufacturer Dreamfarm, this nifty spoon/spatula combo scrapes and measure every last drop from jars and containers. It’s cheap and comes in several sizes. With a nylon handle and silicone head, its clever bent handle lets the spoon sit up off of the counter so there’s never a mess.

Published On: 11/13/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

Maximize Rib Cooking Space With the Rib Ring

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

Maximize the grilling space with the Rib Rings from BBQ Guru. This patent-pending design holds three racks of ribs upright in a circular pattern in the outermost ring, two racks in the middle, plus one rack or a whole chicken in the center ring.

Published On: 11/7/2018 Last Modified: 4/29/2021

The Pelican Elite 50 Quart Cooler Rated And Reviewed

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

If you’re in the market for a heavy duty cooler, this might be the one for you. The Pelican Elite 50 Quart Cooler features 360 degree freezer-grade gaskets, 2 inch thick polyurethane insulators in the lid, and more. The Pelican is also the only cooler capable of preventing a 450-pound Grizzly bear from getting in.

Published On: 11/2/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Excalibur II Meat Shredder

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

This model is for the pros, with lots of meat to shred on a daily basis. Also works well for potatoes and tamale meat.

Published On: 10/8/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Oxo Good Grips Meat Shredding Claws

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

These shredders keep your hands further away from the hot meat. Heat resistant, money back guarantee, dishwasher safe.

Published On: 10/8/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Original Bear Paws

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

These bear paws are ergonomically designed with ample spacing between the claws to allow plenty of clearance for the meat as you are shredding.

Published On: 10/8/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Victorinox Cutlery (454X) Ultrashield Cut Resistant Glove Review

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

Strong and comfortable, the Victorinox Cutlery (454X) Ultrashield Cut Resistant Glove works well but looks different from other cut resistant gloves. This glove has no noticeable pattern of fibers or shields yet it is rated at ANSI cut level 7, making it significantly safer than many other cut resistant glove brands.

Published On: 9/27/2018 Last Modified: 4/26/2021

Victorinox (Ansi 9) Saf.T.Gard Stainless Steel Mesh Glove Review

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

Victorinox (Ansi 9) Saf.T.Gard Stainless Steel Mesh Glove is an excellent glove for protecting against knife cuts, though it will conduct electricity and will not withstand the force of power driven blades, saws and tools. This glove earned ANSI’s highest level of cut and puncture protection (9).

MSRP:$109

Published On: 9/27/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Kaffyad (Ansi 5) Cut Resistant Gloves Review

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

Made with 13GPE/glass fiber cores, the Kaffyad (Ansi 5) Cut Resistant Gloves are extremely light and, like most, ambidextrous. The elastic cuff provides a snug fit snugly and helps prevent buckling, puckering and bulging.The Kaffyad cut resistant glove is available in S/M and M/L sizes. Hand and machine washable.

Published On: 9/27/2018 Last Modified: 4/26/2021

Cleanpower (4544) Safety Cut Proof Stainless Steel Metal Mesh Butcher Glove Review

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

The Cleanpower Safety Cut Proof Stainless Steel Metal Mesh Butcher Glove is constructed from woven stainless steel wire mesh and comes with a white cotton glove for comfort and cleanliness. It’s cut and stab resistant, ambidextrous, and has a high protection grade of 5. It is also adjustable for a variety of sizes.

Published On: 9/27/2018 Last Modified: 4/26/2021

DIY Cocktails: A Guide To Creating A Variety Of Mixed Drinks

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A quality cocktail recipe book is a must for any home bar and one of our favorites is “DIY Cocktails: A Simple Guide to Creating Your Own Signature Drinks” by Marcia Simmons and Jonas Halpren. DIY Cocktails is based on categories and ratios so we can understand the concepts of what the elements of a balanced mix.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 12/29/2021

Bar Necessities: Choosing The Right Beer Glasses, Mugs, Tankards, And Steins

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

No bar would be complete without quality glassware including beer glasses, mugs, tankards, and steins. Here is as assortment of some of our favorite choices for your bar glassware collection including where to purchase them.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Bar Necessities: Discovering Schrafft’s Luncheonette Glass

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Schrafft’s Luncheonette-Style Glass with Holder Gift Box Set of 2) are a wonderful addition to your home glassware collection. These nearly-forgotten glasses, supported by gleaming stainless-steel holders and accompanied by elegant, long-handled spoons, are perfect for milkshakes, ice cream sodas, or hot rum drinks.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Bar Necessities: Selecting The Right Champagne Flutes

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you enjoy champagne and/or sparkling wine, quality champagne flutes are an important addition to your home bar. These tall slender glasses not only look elegant, they retain the fizz longer.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Bar Necessities: The Right Wine Glasses For The Job

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

When it comes to selecting the right wine glasses, simple all-purposes glasses are just fine. All you truly need is an opening wide enough so your nose fits in when you sip and dishwasher safe with a stem that fits. I know the wine snobs will cringe, but I never bought into the need for a broad array of glasses.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 2/24/2021

Bar Necessities: Our Favorite Martini Glasses

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Elegant martini glasses add a touch of class to any cocktail party. Unlike most bar glassware, martini glasses have become an art form. Some are quite elegant, whimsical, even spectacular. I have about 20, no two alike, so people can sit them down and remember which is theirs. Here is my favorite among them all.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Bar Necessities: Exceptional Collins and Rocks Glasses

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

You’ve stocked your bar with all of the right liquors and bar tools but now you need the right glassware including two of the most important pieces of a collection — Collins glasses and rocks glasses. Here is our favorite 16 piece collection. They’re heavy and clunky, but hard to break, and I love the cool retro look.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Bar Necessities: Selecting A Properly Designed Wine Decanter

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you are a wine enthusiast then owning a well designed wine decanter is a must, but that doesn’t have to mean the most expensive one. You want a wine decanter with a wide mouth, large capacity, steady base, and a good pouring lip. They can be used to aerate young wines or for pouring off sediment that forms with age.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Bar Necessities: The Right Muddler For Mojitos And More

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Many classic drinks such as mint juleps and mojitos use fresh mint leaves. More modern drink recipes use herbs such as basil. To extract their flavors they are placed in the shaker or glass and crushed with a mini-baseball bat called a muddler, a must if you enjoy mojitos and other muddled cocktails.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 2/24/2021

Bar Necessities: Adding A Citrus Juicer To Your Home Bar

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

There are few things better than fresh citrus in your cocktail. This stainless steel juicer is an elegant and effective way of juicing citrus, thereby making it a valuable addition to your bar or kitchen.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Bar Necessities: Selecting The Right Bar Spoon

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Long and slender with a spoon at one end and tines on the other, the bar spoon is a very handy multi-function tool for any home bar. Here is one of favorites which, as a bonus, comes with a muddler for muddling mint, fruit and so much more.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Bar Necessities: Reviewed Oxo Cocktail Strainer

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A cocktail strainer is a valuable addition to any bar and the Hawthorn-style cocktail strainer from OXO is a great choice. It fits over the top of a cocktail shaker, keeping ice and seeds out of your drink. It has a short handle for storing, and a slightly raised lip to make pouring easier with less spillage.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Bar Necessities: The Best Cocktail Shaker Kit

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Cocktail shakers often come as a kit with all the tools you’ll need. Our favorite among the countless cocktail shaker kits is one from Libbey, featuring a 20 ounce glass mixing glass, stainless steel shaker, and stainless steel Hawthorn-style cocktail strainer. It’s dishwasher safe, although hand washing is best.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Bar Necessities: Choosing The Right Measuring Shot Glass

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The best cocktails are accurately measured and mixed and that means owning a quality measuring shot glass. Sadly, the numbers wash off many of the glass measures so the tried and true metal two sided jigger from reliable Oxo with measurement etched into the stainless steel and a non-slip grip is the best choice.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

There’s Nothing Like a Rice Cooker

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A rice cooker cooks, steams and warms more than just rice! Here’s the one that we like best.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 2/6/2022

A Slow Cooker Has Multiple Uses

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A slow cooker has myriad uses including braising when your oven is full or you want to leave the house without leaving the oven on. It’s also perfect for keeping all kinds of foods, including smoked pulled pork, warm for serving.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

A Deep Fryer Isn’t Essential But Very Useful On Occasion

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

You can’t beat a deep fryer for making a large quantity of party food. The one holds 2.2 pounds of food, has a clever oil drainage system, a viewing window in the lid, a non-stick interior, and an air filter that helps prevent oil smells. Plus, it’s relatively inexpensive and compact for easy storage.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Dymo Labeler Review

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Keep your stored food items organized and easy to find with an inexpensive labeler.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

An Electric Coffee and Spice Grinder Can Improve Your Cooking

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Freshly ground coffee beans and freshly ground spices are so much better tasting. Whole beans and seeds keep better longer in the pantry. Just pick up a cheap grinder and it will improve the taste of your coffee and your cooking.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 7/15/2021

A Blender That Pulverizes The Competition

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

If you make a lot of smoothies, sauces, and other blended foods then a high quality blender is in order. While there are several decent economically priced blenders out there, the lifespan of these models tends to be short due to inferior parts and a lack of horsepower, especially compared to a Vitamix or Oster.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

A Food Processor Is An Essential Small Appliance

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A blender on steroids, this essential tool does a better job on thick purees like pestos. Plus, it comes with attachments that allow you to shred, slice, and grate your way to greatness.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

An Electric Hand Mixer Whips Sauce, Batters, And More In a Jif

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

An electric hand mixer whips up batters lickety split. Plus, if you don’t make doughs and batters often, it’s much cheaper than a stand mixer.

MSRP:$39.95

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Selecting The Right Juice Pitcher

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

f you enjoy fresh juice then a quality pitcher is a must for your kitchen. When selecting a pitcher, we prefer one from Rubbermaid that holds one gallon of liquid, has markings on the side for quart measurements, and has a tight lid so that you can shake the juice without it splattering it all over your kitchen.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

Keep Sauces Warm Longer With A Quality Thermos

By:

Clint Cantwell, Champion Pitmaster

A quality thermos is key to keeping sauces warm longer. Whether you are serving it at a backyard cookout or are a competitor wanting to keep sauce piping hot for turn-in boxes, a thermos like my favorite, the 64-ounce Yeti Rambler, is the perfect solution. It’s also great for traveling with homemade Thanksgiving gravy!

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 5/5/2021

Nesting Mixing Bowls, A Must For Any Kitchen

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you cook, you need mixing bowls. Heat proof glass like Pyrex and stainless steel are good choices because they can go in the oven. When making your selection, note that glass can be used in the microwave and that metal cannot. Glass also looks nicer as a serving bowl while stainless bowls are lightweight.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

Rubbermaid Stain Shield Plastic Storage Containers Have Several Advantages

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Plastic storage containers are versatile, multipurpose, essential items in any kitchen. Keep a variety of sizes on hand for various liquid and solid foods.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 5/5/2021

Keep Ingredients Fresh With Airtight Canister Sets

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Airtight canisters are a must in any kitchen as they help keep ingredients fresh much longer. If you don’t put the flour in an airtight canister, it can lose quality, but worst of all, it will attract pantry moths, a most unwelcome infestation. You need a canister for flour, sugar, brown sugar, rice, coffee, and tea.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

Duct Tape, The All Purpose Tool For Countless Jobs

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A home without a roll of duct tape is like a bicycle without wheels.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Rubber Bands: One Is Never Enough Of This Kitchen Essential

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

No kitchen is complete without a stockpile of rubber bands in a variety of sizes.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 12/29/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Plastic Wrap Is A Staple You Shouldn’t Do Without

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Plastic wrap is an essential staple for any kitchen. Get the kind that clings to bowls so you can keep your food air tight.

Published On: 9/25/2018 Last Modified: 12/29/2021

Double Strength Aluminum Foil

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Heavy duty aluminum foil is a must have staple for any kitchen and for any backyard cook’s arsenal of tools.

Published On: 9/24/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Butcher String, A Must For Tying Roasts

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

No kitchen is complete without butcher string. It’s really just food grade kite string that is used for tying roasts and more.

Published On: 9/24/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Quality Kitchen Towels Are A Must For Clean Up

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Every kitchen needs a quality set of utilitarian kitchen towels and terry cloth is the best! Avoid towels with fringes to catch fire.

Published On: 9/24/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Serving Platters Are A Must For Entertaining Dinner Guests

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Large serving platters are something that you may not realize you need until it comes time to serve a turkey, a mess of ribs, and other large dishes.

Published On: 9/24/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Silicone Baking Mats Ensure Non-Stick Baking

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The newfangled replacement for parchment paper: non-stick for rolling dough; heatproof for baking.

Published On: 9/24/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

A Rolling Pin Is A Must For Pizza Dough, Fresh Pasta, And More

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

One simple wooden rolling pin ought to do the trick.

Published On: 9/24/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Corn Holders

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Corn holders help to keep your buttered corn off your lap. The great thing about this set is that each pair fit nicely together for storage.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

A Manual Can And Bottle Opener Is A Must For Any Kitchen

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A magnetic can opener can handily kept on the refrigerator door in case of emergency.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Egg Timer and Egg Slicer Review

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

These two tools can make cooking and slicing hardcooked eggs much easier. The slicer can be used for bananas and soft vegetables as well.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Mortar And Pestle

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A heavy duty mortar and pestle is perfect for grinding whole spices snd seeds for home made rubs.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Assorted Funnels

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you’ve ever tried filling a bottle with a small mouth then you know how nice it is to have one or two funnels on hand.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

Corks Are A Multi-Purpose Tool Every Kitchen Needs

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Corks are useful for resealing open bottles, especially the T-top cork.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Chip Clips Keep Your Bags Of Snacks Fresh And Crunchy

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Chip clips are the perfect item for maintaining freshness of food stored in bags. Be sure to get a collection of them for multiple bags of chips, crackers, and more.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Nut Tools For Shelling Walnuts, Pecans, And Even Shellfish

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you like shelled nuts like pecans and walnuts then owning a good nut cracker is a must. They are even great for cracking lobster and crab legs.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Juice All Kinds of Citrus With An Old Fashioned Juicer

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

When it comes to juicing oranges, nothing works better for me than an old fashioned juicer with a little built-in bowl and a strainer like grandma used. Juices lemons and limes too!

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Scrubbie Sponges

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Sponges are essential for keeping your kitchen clean. We prefer those with non-sturdy abrasive scouring pads for scrubbing off stuck-on food.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Bottle Brushes

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

You need a bottle brush to keep your thermos, jelly jars and basting bulbs clean.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/20/2021

Save Counter Space With A Manual Can Opener

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Can and lid openers are essential kitchen tools.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

A Salad Spinner Keeps Your Lettuces Clean And Dry

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

There is no better way to clean your lettuce or spinach. Submerge it in water and then spin off all the water.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Make Perfect Mashed Potatoes With This Hand Held Masher

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Nothing beats a great dish of mashed potatoes and while you can use a stand mixer to blend them, we find an old fashioned masher like the OXO Good Grips Wire Potato Masher to be the best tool. With very little elbow grease, you can mash your spuds plenty smooth, or if you prefer, as I do, you can leave in a few lumps.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/5/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Scaler

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This tool makes quick work of fish scales when preparing whole fresh fish.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

Ice Cream Scoops Are Great For Portioning Meat, Mashed Potatoes, And More

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Not only handy for ice cream, but a great way to portion ground meat for burgers.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Spider

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This is the Asian version of a slotted spoon and perfect for lifting food out of a deep fryer.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/20/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Spaghetti Scoop

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The best way to get spaghetti from bowl to plate.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

A Long-Handled Slotted Spoon Is Ideal For Straining Liquids

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

You need this when you want to scoop the meatballs out and not the sauce.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

A Long-Handled Wooden Stirring Spoon Is A Kitchen Necessity

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A long-handled wooden spoon is a necessity in the kitchen, used for stirring sauces and soups, scooping ingredients, and more.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Ladle

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Every kitchen needs a quality ladle. Get at least one with a mouth about 3-4″ wide and one small one for serving small amounts of sauce, gravy, or dressings.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/13/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Wooden Spoon and Spatula

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

You need these for stirring and scooping with your non-stick pans.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

A Nylon Whisk Is Perfect For Nonstick Pans

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

When it comes to selecting the right whisk, we have found a clear cut favorite in the nylon OXO Good Grips Balloon Whisk, especially because it can be used vigorously on a nonstick pans without scratching the surface. It is perfect for making scrambled eggs for whipping cream, and so much more.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

Use A Food Mill For A Rustic Texture in Vegetable Purees

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A food mill is a must for getting rid of seeds. It makes the best textured tomato sauce ever, pureed but with a little texture left in it.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/5/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Tea Tools Reviewed

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you love freshly brewed tea then here are the tools necessary for getting it right, including a tea strainer and tea balls.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/19/2021

Fine Mesh Strainer

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A fine mesh strainer is good for washing fruits and vegetables.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/20/2021

Stainless Steel Colander

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A good colander should have handles to avoid getting your hands burned.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/20/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Fat Separator

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The perfect tool for skimming fat.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/20/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Measuring Cups

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Measuring tools, including cups, are essential kitchen tools.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/20/2021

Other Kitchen Tools: Measuring Spoons

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Measuring tools, including spoons, are essential tools.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/20/2021

OXO Splatter Screen Comes in Handy

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A simple metal splatter guard helps keep your stovetop and other cookware cleaner so you don’t have to spend as much time washing up.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

A Silicone Steamer Basket Cleans Easier Than a Metal One

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A steamer basket is much less expensive than a steamer pot and can be used in almost any 1 or 2 quart pot you already have. Silicone cleans easier than the old fashioned metal ones.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Helen Chen’s Asian Kitchen Carbon Steel Wok Set Review

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A wok is best for stir fries because of the high sides. Go for a flat bottom wok so it works well on American stovetop burners. This carbon steel wok set has everything you need to turn out tasty Chinese food.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Lodge 12 Inch Cast Iron Skillet Is An Everyday Essential

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Cast iron provides intense even heat and can be used on a stovetop, in the oven, on the grill and is great for camping. Use a cast iron pan to press sandwiches, smash potatoes, and crush spices or nuts, too. The 12 inch skillet from Lodge is a great skillet for everyday use.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Elegant Stainless Steel and Glass Universal Lid Review

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The Nordic Ware 12-Inch Universal Pan Lid is a vented pot lid you should keep handy when cooking. It fits most frying pans and saucepans and is much less expensive than the lids from high end manufacturers like All Clad.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Three Saucepans Are All You Need

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

When it comes to saucepans, you really only need 3 basic sizes: small, medium and large. The large is essentially a stockpot that you can use to boil pasta and to make stocks and large quantities of stews and BBQ sauce. The small and medium pans are for smaller quantities of soup and everything else.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

Invest In Good Frying Pans, Unless They Are Nonstick

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

An assortment of pans for frying and sauteing is essential for a functional kitchen. Stainless steel with a core of aluminum is best for most sauteing and frying. Buy the best you can. It’s also helpful to have a couple nonstick pans on hand. For those, buy them cheap and replace them when they wear out.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

French Press Coffee Maker Works Even If The Power’s Out

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A French press coffee maker requires no electricity, is portable, easy to operate, and makes a great cup of coffee. Here’s a review of one of our favorite models that won’t crack.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

An Old Fashioned Meat Grinder Lasts Forever

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Grinding your own meat gives you fresher, better tasting meals. You can buy attachments for stand mixers and food processors, but an old fashioned hand operated meat grinder is inexpensive and will last forever. If you make hamburgers you can create your own signature beef blend featuring chuck, brisket, and more.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 2/18/2023

Microplane

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Very sharp blades for shaving hard foods or zesting citrus.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/20/2021

Graters and Grinders: Box Grater

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Perfect for shredding cheese and making slaw.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/20/2021

Graters and Grinders: Mandolin

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A handy tool for French fries or crinkle cut carrots.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/20/2021

Carving Fork: An Ideal Tool For Slicing Large Cuts Of Meat

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A carving fork is sometimes the best tool for holding meat steady when you slice it.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 12/29/2021

Vegetable Peelers: An Inexpensive But Necessary Tool For The Kitchen

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The vegetable peeler is an indispensible tool in the kitchen.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 12/29/2021

Alaskan Ulu Rocker Knife

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This tool, designed for skinning hides, comes in very handy in the kitchen, especially for mincing herbs.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Products For Storing Your Knives Safely And Damage Free

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

You need a place to store your knives. A block or magnetic strip would be just the thing.

Published On: 9/22/2018 Last Modified: 12/29/2021

The Messermeister Meridian Elite Knife Kit Travels Well

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

My travel knife kit is a Messermeister Meridian Elite Knife Set. These are quality forged knives, and if you’re looking for a basic knife roll, it makes a great choice.

Published On: 9/21/2018 Last Modified: 3/8/2021

Cleaver: An Ideal Knife To Have On Hand For Cutting Through Bone

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This tool is essential for cutting through bones.

Published On: 9/21/2018 Last Modified: 12/29/2021

Gunter Wilhelm Premier ProCut 3.5 Inch Paring Knife

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A short stiff blade with a sharp point makes the paring knife the tool of choice for fine work like slicing radishes, peeling apples, coring peppers. The Gunter Wilhelm Premier ProCut 3.5 inch inch Premier ProCut Paring Knife is a superb blade with a wicked sharp 15 degree cutting edge that is also drop dead gorgeous.

Published On: 9/21/2018 Last Modified: 3/8/2021

Chef’s Choice 120 Diamond Hone Pro EdgeSelect Electric Knife Sharpener Review

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

This unit features three-stage precision sharpening for chef’s knives, butcher knives, sporting knives, and serrated knives. Its solid construction makes this a durable sharpener that can even handle commercial use.

Published On: 8/12/2018 Last Modified: 3/8/2021

AG Russell Ceramic Knife Sharpening Rods Can Be Used Frequently

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

This V-sharpener uses ceramic rods set at 15° per side, creating a combined 30° angle on the blade edge. It’s a simple, inexpensive sharpener for frequent use.

Published On: 8/12/2018 Last Modified: 3/8/2021

Nation’s Restaurant News

A classic trade publication, this glossy color tabloid comes out 50 times per year and is fat with trends and much more.

MSRP:$29.95

Published On: 6/23/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

Wine Advocate

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Robert Parker is the most influential individual in the wine world. He and his associates taste thousands of wines each year, and that’s pretty much all you’ll find in this newsletter.

Published On: 6/23/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

Wine Spectator

There is a special issue devoted to their Restaurant Grand Award Winners, another on the Top 100 wines of the Year, and another on Great Wine Values.

MSRP:$63.00

Published On: 6/23/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

All About Beer

Easily the leading beer magazine, each of the six issues per year contains features about different beer types, breweries, the interesting characters who make it, places to drink it, beer and food matching, the politics influencing the marketplace and more.

MSRP:$19.95

Published On: 6/23/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

Bon Appetit

A big, sumptuous feast of recipes and ideas, drool inducing photos, probing interviews, memoirs, travel, tips on technique, culinaria, restaurant guides, product reviews, what to drink, trends, pop culture, and eternal culture.

MSRP:$15.00

Published On: 6/23/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

Cook’s Illustrated

This is a great cooking magazine. The authors have grown from a really good magazine that people in the know swore by, to a great website, to a TV show, and have recently added another magazine.

MSRP:$24.95

Published On: 6/23/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

DIY Cocktails: A Simple Guide to Creating Your Own Signature Drinks by Marcia Simmons & Jonas Halpren

I own several bartending guides and I’ve seen many others, but I have never seen anything like this.

MSRP:$26.99

Published On: 6/23/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

The Foie Gras Wars: A Story Of The World’s Fiercest Food Battle by Mark Caro

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Rich, complex, not like any other liver, more akin to eating a stick of the richest buttery cream cheese imaginable.

MSRP:$25.00

Published On: 6/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

The Tummy Trilogy by Calvin Trillin

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The Tummy Trilogy is actually three books in one, all long out of print, but occasionally available used.

MSRP:$17.00

Published On: 6/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

The Art of Beef Cutting: A Meat Professional’s Guide to Butchering and Merchandising by Kari Underly

The best teachers can address the novice and still educate the expert, and that is exactly what Kari Underly does in this fine guide.

MSRP:$50.00

Published On: 6/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

The New Wine Country Cookbook: Recipes from California’s Central Coast by Brigit Binns

This beautiful book whisks readers back to a lyrical time when California was a simpler place?? before it overflowed with too many people seeking Paradise?? to a fertile region nestled between Monterey and Santa Barbara.

MSRP:$35.00

Published On: 6/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

Whole Beast Butchery: The Complete Visual Guide to Beef, Lamb, and Pork by Ryan Farr with Brigit Binns

Farr is a classically trained chef, butcher, and butchery instructor, at his 4505 Meats in San Francisco. In three chapters, Beef, Pork, and Lamb, he demonstrates his craft in hundreds of photographs.

MSRP:$40.00

Published On: 6/21/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

The Cook and the Butcher: Juicy Recipes, Butcher’s Wisdom, and Expert Tips by Brigit Binns

Four chapters: Beef, Pork, Lamb, Veal. A lifetime of incredible recipes for cooks who are bored with the same old same old.

MSRP:$34.99

Published On: 6/21/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

The Great Meat Cookbook by Bruce Aidells Reviewed

Bruce Aidells has been a working butcher. He founded a sausage company and I’ll bet you’ve seen Aidells Sausages on your grocery shelves.

MSRP:$40.00

Published On: 6/21/2018 Last Modified: 12/21/2021

The Meat Buyers Guide: Meat, Lamb, Veal, Pork and Poultry by NAMI (North American Meat Institute) 8th Edition

Edited by NAMI (formerly NAMP), this is the definitive reference on all the different cuts of meat, with charts, excellent photos, a glossary, and nutritional info.

MSRP:$139.00

Published On: 6/21/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

Catching Fire, How Cooking Made Us Human by Richard Wrangham

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

In the book “Catching Fire, How Cooking Made Us Human” (Basic Books, 2010), Richard Wrangham describes how cooking changes the chemistry of food and how that made it easier for proto humans to chew, digest, and extract energy and nutrients. It also includes insight for us who love to hang out at the grill.

Published On: 6/21/2018 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Food Rules: An Eater’s Manual by Michael Pollan

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A short paperback that you can easily swallow on a short airplane trip, Pollan, the author of such important books as the Ominvore’s Dilemma, In Defense of Food, and The Botany of Desire, summarizes what he has learned about good eating habits in the form of “rules” which he describes in a few sentences.

MSRP:$13.00

Published On: 6/21/2018 Last Modified: 3/7/2021

The Omnivore’s Dilemma by Michael Pollan

This may be the most important book about food since Upton Sinclair’s The Jungle drew back the curtain on the Chicago stockyards in 1906. Both books take an analytical and critical look at how food gets to our table. The New York Times named The Omnivore’s Dilemma one of the 10 best books of 2006.

MSRP:$18.00

Published On: 6/21/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

The Bacon Cookbook by James Villas

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The standards such as quiche, carbonarra, BLT, are there among 168 intriguing recipes by an experienced cookbook author.

MSRP:$35.00

Published On: 6/19/2018 Last Modified: 3/7/2021

The Chili Cookbook by Robb Walsh

If you’re a fan of chili in its various forms then this is the book for you! Discover recipes for such dishes as classic Texas chili, Cincinnati chili, four alarm chili, and so much more.

MSRP:$18.99

Published On: 6/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

The Hamburger: A History by Josh Ozersky

A cleverly written, well researched, fun tale of the history of the hamburger and how it has evolved in step with American culture.

MSRP:$14.00

Published On: 6/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

Hamburger: A Global History

This definitive little book unwraps the mystery of the origin of the hamburger and its name, and traces its spread across the globe.

MSRP:$21.00

Published On: 6/19/2018 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Hamburger America, A Tour Of The Nation’s Top Burger Stops

George Motz has traveled the four corners of the nation to find the best and most interesting burger joints.

MSRP:$17.98

Published On: 6/19/2018 Last Modified: 12/16/2021

Hamburgers & Fries: An American Story

This book follows him cross country as he seeks regional styles and historical techniques that will help him unravel the story of the All-American hamburger.

MSRP:$38.75

Published On: 6/19/2018 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Hot Dog: A Global History

A well regarded culinary historian and Professor Emeritus of History and Humanities at Roosevelt University in Chicago.

MSRP:$15.95

Published On: 6/19/2018 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Startin’ the Fire by George Hensler

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

George Hensler is the captain of a barbecue team, and he has written a very helpful short book on what you need to know before entering your first Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS) contest.

MSRP:$12.95

Published On: 6/19/2018 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

The Prophets of Smoked Meat: A Journey Through Texas BBQ

Daniel Vaughn knows Texas barbecue so well that in 2013 Texas Monthly magazine hired the Dallas architect to write about the subject full time.

MSRP:$37.50

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 9/30/2021

Legends of Texas Barbecue Cookbook Review

This book is a wonderful piece of scholarly research that is also a great read. Walsh has delved into the history and lore of Texas barbecue, it origins, its ingredients, its personalities, and its tall tales.

MSRP:$18.95

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 7/5/2022

Dr. BBQ’s Big-Time Barbecue Cookbook By Ray “Dr. BBQ” Lampe

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Very few people know barbecue and grilling like Ray Lampe and he’s got a room full of trophies to prove it.

MSRP:$21.99

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 12/16/2021

America’s Best BBQ by Ardie A. Davis and Chef Paul Kirk

This book is meant as a cookbook, as described in the subtitle “100 Recipes from America’s Best Smokehouses, Pits, Shacks, Rib Joints, Roadhouses, and Restaurants”. But its much more. Davis and Kirk probably have visited more barbecue joints than anyone I know, and they have picked some of their favorites with recipes.

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Paul Kirk’s Championship Barbecue Sauces Cookbook Review

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This book has 175 sauces, marinades, dry rubs, wet rubs, mops, and salsas. Nothing fancy, no long-winded tales and stories, just tried and true recipes, mostly from his buddies on the competition circuit.

MSRP:$12.95

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 12/16/2021

Fire it Up – More Than 400 Recipes for Grilling

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

A big, heavy, beautifully photographed book that feels authoritative. The intro material is short, but high quality.

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 9/30/2021

Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) Cookbook Reviewed

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Pure fun. Founded in 1986, the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS) is an international association with thousands of members.

MSRP:$24.99

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 12/21/2021

Low & Slow: Mastering the Art of Barbecue in Five Easy Lessons by Gary Wiviott

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you have a new Weber Smoky Mountain smoker you absolutely positively must buy Gary Wiviott’s book.

MSRP:$22.00

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

The South’s Best Butts—Pitmaster Secrets for Southern Barbecue Perfection by Matt Moore

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Moore is a youngish Southern Gentleman from Nashville (and author of A Southern Gentleman’s Kitchen), the son of a cattleman and grandson of a butcher, takes his small plane all over the South visiting a dozen BBQ joints in as many states from Texas to North Carolina.

MSRP:$26.95

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Peace, Love, and Barbecue: A Must Own Cookbook

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Peace, Love, and Barbecue, published in 2005, not only contains the expected count of excellent recipes and cooking tips, but includes interviews with the legends of barbecue, and visits to the “shrines, shacks, joints, and right respectable restaurants.”

MSRP:$25.00

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 12/16/2021

Barbecue! Bible: Sauces, Rubs, and Marinades Cookbook

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Barbecue! Bible Sauces, Rubs, and Marinades, Bastes, Butters, and Glazes is a comprehensive collection of creative flavors from around the world.

MSRP:$18.00

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

The Barbecue! Bible by Steven Raichlen

The Barbecue! Bible was Raichlen’s first book on the subject. Published in 1998, this 556 page tome with 500 recipes covers everything from hamburgers to bread.

MSRP:$23.00

Published On: 6/18/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

How to Grill: The Complete Illustrated Book of Barbecue Techniques by Steven Raichlen

With several other books on barbecue and grilling, a cooking school, two television series, a lecture tour, and a line of outdoor cooking tools, Raichlen has had the kind of influence on men who cook, that Julia Child had on women who cook.

MSRP:$23.00

Published On: 6/17/2018 Last Modified: 4/28/2021

Serious Barbecue: A Must Own Cookbook By Adam Perry Lang

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The recipes are creative, insightful, and beautifully photographed.

MSRP:$25.00

Published On: 6/17/2018 Last Modified: 12/21/2021

Charred & Scruffed by Adam Perry Lang

Perry Lang is a serious classically trained chef and he knows a lot about barbecue and grilling. This book shows off his macho cooking philosophy and several clever concepts, chief among them, board dressings. So simple, but this is a super way to add flavor to grilled foods.

Published On: 6/17/2018 Last Modified: 2/24/2021

The Cooks Illustrated Guide to Grilling and Barbecue

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

As I have exclaimed perhaps too often and too breathlessly elsewhere on this site, Cook’s Illustrated, the magazine, the website, the book publisher, and producer of America’s Test Kitchen on PBS, is my favorite source for no-nonsense, thoroughly tested info.

MSRP:$35.00

Published On: 6/17/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Big Bob Gibson’s BBQ Book By Chris Lilly

Chris Lilly is the Executive Chef of one of the nation’s classic old joints, Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, in Decatur, AL. Lilly is a fine story teller, and in this book he shares with us what it is like to work at a small town barbecue joint, the legend of Big Bob and countless amazing recipes.

Published On: 6/17/2018 Last Modified: 4/26/2023

Weber’s Time to Grill: Get In. Get Out. Get Grilling. by Jamie Purviance

Chef Purviance has another winner for Weber. This one has the 200 plus recipes divided into two categories, “Easy” and “Adventurous”, pretty much 50/50, and you don’t need a Weber to cook them.

MSRP:$18.00

Published On: 6/17/2018 Last Modified: 5/3/2023

Weber’s New Real Grilling Cookbook by Jamie Purviance

Purviance begins this beautiful book with managing the grill, and although Weber’s grills are featured, the advice is broad enough to cover most charcoal and gas grills.

MSRP:$20.00

Published On: 6/17/2018 Last Modified: 9/30/2021

Chops Power Injector Systems Are Perfect For BBQ Caterers

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you are a BBQ caterer or restaurateur or a competitor, or even a weekend warrior who cooks for a crowd, you need this injector!

Published On: 5/24/2018 Last Modified: 1/25/2021

Need State of the Art Equipment? Get The Pork Injector

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The Pork Injector is a motorized “Auto Pump Injector System” that is state of the art and can really save you time and hand cramps if you have to inject a lot of meat.

Published On: 5/24/2018 Last Modified: 3/6/2021

Spitjack 2-Ounce Injector Gun Is A Step Up From Basic Stainless Models

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This injector is a serious tool for competition barbecue. You can order it with 1, 2, or 3 needles. It’s a step up from basic stainless models in that you can dial in the amount of injection liquid being injected and you don’t have to pull out slowly as you inject like you do with other models.

Published On: 5/24/2018 Last Modified: 3/6/2021

Bamboo Grill Brush Is Simple And Effective

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This straightforward, inexpensive, no-frills grill brush is still the easiest and most effective way to remove grease from your grill grates. When it gets too gunked up, replace it.

Published On: 5/24/2018 Last Modified: 3/6/2021

For Really Gunked Up Grills, Use a Portable Steam Cleaner

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

It takes a long time, so this is not something to use after every cook. But a portable steam cleaner will scrub away even the toughest grime on your grill grates and heat deflector plates. I use mine once a year.

Published On: 5/23/2018 Last Modified: 3/6/2021

Windblocker Chafing Dish Frame

By:

Rick Browne, Ph.B.

WindBlocker is a portable chafing dish frame that blocks wind while allowing some air under the food and water pans to keep the fuel lit. When used indoors, one lit Sterno is enough to keep the water pan at the desired temperature. For use outdoors in the wind, two Sterno cans will get the job done.

MSRP:$35.00

Published On: 5/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/12/2021

Thin Stainless Steel Is Durable and Does a Great Job

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Stainless steel grill grates can be made from thin or thick rods, but I prefer the thin ones that allow more radiant heat through, especially for charcoal grills. The problem with thick rods is that they block radiant heat and make large dark grill marks.

Published On: 5/22/2018 Last Modified: 5/14/2021

Sturdy Kitchen Shears Will Quickly Cut Chicken Bones and Butcher String

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

My OXO Good Grips professional poultry shears are one of those kitchen tools I simply cannot live without. These heavy duty scissors are a must for cutting up a whole chicken (especially for removing the backbone for spatchcock chicken), trimming chicken wings, and so many other tasks.

Published On: 5/21/2018 Last Modified: 5/5/2021

Cast Iron Dutch Oven Expands Your Outdoor Cooking Arsenal

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Forget the fancy high end pricey Le Creuset French Oven when selecting a cast iron Dutch Oven. This is the one you want for cowboy cooking and camping. It’s perfect for whole chickens or slow braising in the oven or in the grill. Add coals to the lid and it’s great for baking. It also comes in handy around the house..

Published On: 5/21/2018 Last Modified: 4/27/2021

The Perfect Extra Wide Metal Spatula

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you’re in the market for a sturdy wide spatula then The Weber Original Wide Spatula is a great quality choice.

Published On: 5/21/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

Tool Wizard 20 Inch BBQ Tongs Review

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The tested and rated Tool Wizard 20-inch BBQ Tongs are an essential addition to your BBQ and grilling tools arsenal. Made of rugged 1/8″ thick aluminum, with four serious rivets, there are no springs to pop, and they show zero signs of wear or weakness while lighter tongs all end up in the recycling bin.

Published On: 5/21/2018 Last Modified: 9/6/2022

Coleman Butane Burner Add More Firepower To Your Outdoor Grill

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If your grill didn’t come with a side burner, this portable Coleman butane burner (and other similar models from various manufacturers) is how to make up for the deficiency. Butane burners like this get very hot very fast, and are great for keeping sauces warm or even for frying side dishes.

Published On: 5/21/2018 Last Modified: 5/11/2021

Galvanized Ash Can Review, An Essential Tool For Disposing Of Hot Ash And Coals

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Disposing of hot coals and ash can be a real issue without the right tool. So what do you do with the ash from your grill? When my fire cools, I dump my ash in a galvanized ash can. You want something with a tight fitting lid to suffocate any live coals.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/11/2021

StufZ Gourmet Stuffed Burger Maker Review

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The StufZ Burger Press helps make a pretty good stuffed burger, and stuffed burgers can be very juicy and tasty, with the cheese on the inside, not on top. Or bacon, or onions, or mushrooms, or or or. Working with it was a bit awkward at first, but once you get used to it you’ll be making stuffed burgers like a pro.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

The Rapala Fillet Knife Is Cheap, Sharp And Versatile

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

This cheapo knife has a thin flexible blade with a dangerously sharp edge and a wicked sharp tip. It’s good for just about everything except cutting through bone. And it costs less than $15.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 3/2/2021

Smokist Stainless Steel Mesh Smoking Pouch Adds Smoke To Your Gas Grill

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

In recent years there have been perhaps a dozen new products brought on the market to hold wood and add smoke to the cooker. I have played with a number of them, and the one that impresses me the most is the cleverly designed fine mesh stainless steel Smokist Smoking Pouch, especially for use with gas grills.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/11/2021

Chimney Cap: Protect Your Ceramic Cooker From The Rain

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you own a ceramic cooker then you have probably experienced rain getting into the cooking chamber. Whether you own a Big Green Egg, Primo, or Kamado Joe, or any other leaky kamado, this easy to install chimney cap the solution. Made from aluminum, it is simple and effective.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 12/29/2021

Bamboo Steak Markers, Ensuring Guests Get The Temperature They Requested

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

I love these bamboo steak markers as they are a great tool when trying to keep track of which steaks are cooked to what degree of doneness. They come in a pack of 500 and include five temperatures: rare, medium rare, medium, medium well, and well. Unless charred, they can be washed and reused.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/11/2021

Propane Knob Extension Kit Makes Shutting Off The Tank Simple

By:

Greg Rempe

You’re supposed to turn off the propane tank between cooks to prevent expensive leaks and more expensive explosions. But many grills don’t have easy access to the tanks, and it sure is easy to forget. Knob Where You Need It makes it easy to turn off the gas and easy to remember.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/12/2021

Elegant Eco-Friendly Wooden Compostible Plates, Bowls, Platters, And Flatware

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The elegant eco-friendly wooden plates, bowls, platters, snd flatware sets from Leafware are so much nicer and more elegant than paper plates, plus they are fully biodegradable and compostable because they are made from leaves! Best of all, they don’t leak or get floppy when wet!

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/6/2021

GearLight LED Headlamp Is The Late Night Cook’s Best Friend

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

If you find yourself grilling in the dark, the best way to see what is on the cutting board, on the grill, on the smoker, and where that wing you dropped went, is to mount a really bright light l just above your eyes. The Mitaki LED Headlamp fits over your head, leaving your hands free to work with your food.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/11/2021

Cuisinart Grilluminate LED Grill Light Turns Dark In To Day

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Illuminate your grill with Grilluminate. Six very bright LEDs affixed to the end of a metal tube extend downward far enough to clear the bottom of the hood and deliver more light than one might expect from a compact, battery powered device. Made of metal, not plastic, the body is weather and heat resistant.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/11/2021

Lodge Cast Iron Panini Press Makes World Class Paninis And Grilled Cheese

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

The pre-seasoned Lodge Cast Iron Panini Press flat weights are great for making grilled cheese sandwiches and other paninis, and even bacon. When I make sandwiches I preheat the press on high on the side burner, and then put the sandwich on the grill grates and the hot press on top so I can cook both sides at once.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/11/2021

MAK Rib Rack Makes Smoking Multiple Racks Of Ribs A Breeze

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Like the pellet smokers MAK makes, this best of class stainless steel rack for eight slabs of ribs is built to last with thick rails. The gap between the rails is a whopping 1.75 inches, wide enough for the thickest slabs and to allow adequate airflow. I left mine outdoors for months and there was no rust.

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 5/11/2021

The Best Funny Barbecue Aprons

By:

Meathead, BBQ Hall of Famer

Add a touch of humor to your cookout with these fun chef aprons. I have designed a range of aprons with pockets, T-shirts, mugs, and more with scores of humorous sayings from “BBQ God”, “Got Ribs?”, “Eat Me”, “Chef is Prime and Well Aged”, “Nice Rack” and many more!

Published On: 5/19/2018 Last Modified: 7/11/2022