What is “Genuine Barbecue?”

Genuine Barbecue is meat that has been slow cooked using the heat and smoke of burning wood or charcoal at a low temperature. The smoke is absorbed into the meat during the cooking process giving it a tender texture and distinct smoked flavor. Favorite meat products, wood type, sauce and seasoning vary by region, but the essential elements of low slow cooking with smoke are the same. Traditional favorites include barbecue ribs, pork shoulders, beef brisket, and a host of other smoked products. This method is in sharp contrast to high temperature “grilling” over direct heat, as with grilled steaks or hamburgers.