Q: Dr. BBQ, When cooking a brisket for competition do you use a whole or flat brisket? Which part of the brisket do you use for turn-in besides the burnt ends and how do you keep the slices from drying out in a short amount of time? Thanks, Craig A: Hi Craig, I always cook whole briskets and I look …
Adjusting Rubs to Smokers
Dr. BBQ: Have you ever had to adjust your rub to a smoker? I have a new rig and I can’t get my meat to bark up–it’s cooked well but no bark. So I have gradually started reducing the amount of turbinado and adding brown sugar in place of the tubinado. I use the Big Time BBQ Rub. What do …
Gas Grill Query
Q: Dear Dr. BBQ, I am in the market for a new gas grill. I am considering the Napoleon grilll or the Fiesta grill. The Fiesta is cheaper, but both claim to have superior burners and even heating. What is your recommendation? –Carmichael A: Hi Carmichael,I really can’t make a suggestion on your personal situation. …
Do I Really Need a Water Pan?
Q: Dear Doc, I have a barrel smoker/grill without the extra smoker part. I want to do some indirect grilling and the manufacturer says to put a pan with water under the meat on the non-fire side. I’ve never heard of doing that before. Does it make a difference to the quality of the food that has been BBQed? …
Smoking Lean Meat
Hello Dr. BBQ: I have a question about smoking lean meats like venison. My family lives down south, and can legally take 4 deer each, per year. Dad harvested a doe last weekend, and asked me about smoking the whole deer ham. I know that the meat is very lean, and may not fair well with smoking for long hours. …