This is How to BBQ 101.
Here, you’ll learn all the essentials to master the art of low and slow barbecue. Keep in mind that BBQ is different from grilling even though folks use the two terms interchangeably. Knowing the distinctions between them will help you navigate through the world of smoked food with ease and confidence.
Each section below contains a number of articles and resources on a specific topic (e.g. BBQ basics, the science behind BBQ, and so on). Don’t forget to use Ctrl + F then input your keyword if you have trouble finding something.
And if this page is missing anything, please feel free to contact us. We’ll do our best to provide an answer or point you to the right resource(s).
We do appreciate your support. Enjoy your stay here.
BBQ Basics
Grilling vs BBQ – Heat, Time, Smoke & Meat
How Much Meat per Person? – Practical Planning for Any Event
The Science
Maillard Reaction: What You Need Know About It
The Truth About the Stall – What Causes It & How To Beat It
The Smoke Ring BBQ: Is It a Symbol of Great Barbecue or Not?
The Truth Behind BBQ Bark: What Causes It & How To Get More
Cooking Fuels
Lump Charcoal vs Briquettes – Which One Is Better & Why?
Hickory vs Mesquite – Which Is Better? And for What Food?
Ribs Guides
How To Remove the Membrane From Ribs – Is It Necessary?
3 2 1 Ribs – How To Cook Ribs at Home Perfectly Every Time
How Long To Grill Ribs – For a Probe Tender & Toothsome Bite
Types of Pork Ribs Explained – How To Tell the Difference
Types of Beef Ribs Made Easy – How To Tell Them Apart
How To Tell When Ribs Are Done – Do You Need a Thermometer?
How To Reheat Ribs (the Right Way) Without Drying Them Out
Pulled Pork Guides
Pork Butt vs Pork Shoulder – 3 Easy Ways To Tell Them Apart
Brisket Guides
Coming Soon.
BBQ Techniques & How-Tos
Minion Method Ultimate Guide – What It Is & How To Set It Up
The Charcoal Snake Method – Turn Your Grill Into a Smoker
Texas Crutch – What It Is? Why Use It & Is It Necessary?
Resting Meat: Is It Necessary or Not?
How To Use a Charcoal Chimney Starter – A Detailed Tutorial
Useful Tips & Tricks
Coming Soon.
BBQ Smoker Maintenance
How To Clean Stainless Steel Grill Grates – Making Them New Again
How To Clean Cast Iron Grill Grates – Seasoning Is Rust Prevention
Stainless Steel Grill Grates vs Cast Iron – Which One To Buy?
Buying the Right BBQ Smoker
Best BBQ Smoker & Grill Reviews, Ratings, and Buying Guides
Best BBQ Grilling Tools & Accessories Reviews, Ratings, and Buying Guides
The Next Step
Wanna learn about grilling instead? Head over to our How to Grill 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Grilling.