Page 32 - October 2021 Issue

CHRISTY JONES
bigdsqtn@gmail.com
As the temperatures float down like autumn leaves, cooks across the country are adjusting their cooking regimes. Whether getting ready for a BBQ contest, SCA event, tailgate, or holiday gathering, the temperature change can impact more than the frosty ground. I had the pleasure of speaking with a few top-notch cooks from Alaska to the East Coast. Here are a few tips they shared to help get everyone ready.
Equipment:
“Insulated blankets really work to stabilize temps and lesson fuel consumption. If you don’t want to shell out for a blanket specifi- cally designed for your smoker. A cheap welding blanket can be substituted and easily attached with magnets.” – Jeremy Peal, Alaska
“Come to Kentucky for the October 24th SCA contest, visit Keeneland to watch the ponies, tour horse farms, and of course the bourbon trail. Add a fire pit to your equipment to stay warm.” – Jack Jennings, Kentucky
“Switch from beer to whiskey to stay warmer.” – Craig Parman, Tennessee
“Days are getting shorter, bring tube lights to light your work
area. Use your phone light to give your steak one last look over before turn in.” – Sandy Brown, Illinois
Preparation:
“October/November are your time to practice your holiday smoked meats, so you aren’t scrambling for recipes, tips, and ad- vice on the big day.” – Jeremy Peal, Alaska
Technique:
“I keep pretty consistent except in the cooler months, I bring a heater to warm up my steaks to room temperature. That should help your timing remain consistent with summer/spring cooks.” – Ginnie Holmes, Texas
“Two big factors that change with Fall time competitions is Weather and Daylight. There is a chill in the air, therefore your grills may need a bit more charcoal and a few more minutes to get to temp. Also, I use hand warmers in my turn in box carrier, to help keep the steak warm.” – Sandy Brown, Illinois
“I bring my steaks up to a higher temperature raw. Many ways to do that. Also, carryover is minimal that way.” – Jody Davis, Ten- nessee
Craig Parman celebrates his first place SCA win at the Kansas City Royal with the Mayor of the SCA Ken Phillips.
Ginnie Holmes celebrates her sixth SCA win of the year.
Jeremey and Katie Peal of Holy Trinity BBQ celebrate a 1st place ribs, 1st place people's choice, and 2nd place chicken at the Alaska State Fair.
BarbecueNews.com - 30
OCTOBER 2021
Sweater Weather is Better Together!