The Ultimate Guide to the Best BBQ in Texas, barbecue is a way of life in Texas. Texans are serious about their BBQ, and for good reason. The Lone Star State is home to some of the best barbecue in the world, with a rich tradition that dates back centuries. From brisket and sausage to ribs and chicken, Texas BBQ has something to offer everyone. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the history of Texas BBQ, the different styles of barbecue found in the state, and some of the best BBQ joints in Texas.
History of Texas BBQ
Texas BBQ has a long and storied history that dates back to the early days of the state. The first Texans were cattle ranchers, and they quickly realized that the best way to preserve their meat was to smoke it. They would cook the meat low and slow over a wood fire, using mesquite wood that was plentiful in the region. This style of cooking allowed them to feed large groups of people, and it became a staple at ranch gatherings and celebrations.
As Texas grew and became more urban, BBQ joints began to pop up all over the state. These early BBQ joints were often small, family-owned businesses that used the traditional methods of smoking meat over wood fires. Over time, different regions of the state developed their own unique styles of barbecue, each with its own flavor and cooking techniques.
Styles of Texas BBQ
There are four main styles of Texas BBQ, each with its own distinct flavor and cooking method:
- Central Texas BBQ – This style of BBQ is characterized by its emphasis on beef and the use of simple rubs and spices. The meat is cooked low and slow over indirect heat from wood fires, resulting in a tender and smoky flavor. Popular cuts of meat in Central Texas BBQ include brisket, sausage, and beef ribs.
- East Texas BBQ – This style of BBQ is known for its use of sweet and tangy sauces, which are typically made with molasses and vinegar. The meat is often cooked over hickory wood and is usually sliced rather than chopped. Popular cuts of meat in East Texas BBQ include pork ribs and brisket.
- West Texas BBQ – This style of BBQ is characterized by its emphasis on mesquite wood, which gives the meat a distinctive smoky flavor. The meat is often cooked directly over the coals, resulting in a crispy crust and a tender interior. Popular cuts of meat in West Texas BBQ include beef brisket, sausage, and pork ribs.
- South Texas BBQ – This style of BBQ is influenced by Mexican cuisine and is known for its use of spices and seasonings. The meat is often cooked over open flames, resulting in a charred and crispy exterior. Popular cuts of meat in South Texas BBQ include beef fajitas and barbacoa.
Best BBQ Joints in Texas
Now that you know the different styles of Texas BBQ, it’s time to explore some of the best BBQ joints in the state. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Franklin Barbecue – Austin, TX: Franklin Barbecue is widely regarded as one of the best BBQ joints in Texas, if not the entire country. The lines can be long, but the wait is worth it for their mouth-watering brisket and sausage.
- Snow’s BBQ – Lexington, TX: Snow’s BBQ is located in a small town about an hour outside of Austin, but it’s well worth the drive. Their brisket is legendary, and they also offer delicious pork ribs and sausage.
- Kreuz Market – Lockhart, TX: Kreuz Market is one of the oldest BBQ joints in Texas, and they’ve been serving up delicious BBQ since 1900. Their brisket and sausage are both excellent, and they also offer a variety of sides like mac and cheese and beans.
- Louie