A Culinary Quick-Draw: Shio Koji and Panko Deliver Irresistible Crunch for Home Cooks In the bustling world of home cooking, where time is often a precious commodity, the allure of a restaurant-quality dish that can be prepared in mere minutes is undeniable. Japanese-style fried calamari, or ika ring fry, has long been a beloved appetizer […]

By Steven Raichlen, 5-time James Beard Award-winner and Barbecue Hall of Famer For those who regularly tune into the world of live-fire cooking, particularly through this blog and newsletter, the aroma of searing steak, slow-smoked brisket, succulent ribs, and tender pork shoulders likely dominates your culinary imagination. It’s a carnivoran paradise, a testament to the […]

By Steven Raichlen, 5-time James Beard Award-winner and Barbecue Hall of Famer Summer evokes a specific sensory tapestry: the sizzle of the grill, the aroma of wood smoke, and the joy of al fresco dining. While many instinctively reach for steaks or ribs when planning their outdoor feasts, I find myself drawn to a different, […]

Introduction: A Timeless Dessert Takes Center Stage In the pantheon of American comfort food, few desserts hold as esteemed a position as banana pudding. Often considered the quintessential accompaniment to a hearty barbecue spread, this creamy, layered delight embodies the spirit of Southern hospitality and culinary tradition. Matt Pittman, a renowned pitmaster and culinary artisan, […]

Seattle, WA – In the pantheon of iconic American street food, the hot dog reigns supreme, a canvas for regional variations and culinary innovation. Yet, few iterations have sparked as much curiosity – and, for the uninitiated, trepidation – as the Seattle-style hot dog. At its core, this beloved regional delicacy features a humble hot […]

A Culinary Revelation: Individual Ribs, Bold Spices, and a Flavor Bomb Finish In the competitive arena of backyard barbecues and competitive eating circuits, the humble pork rib has long held a revered status. Yet, one culinary innovator, Matt, has managed to elevate this classic dish to an entirely new echelon with his "Cajun Style Party […]

Texas, a state synonymous with world-class barbecue, often conjures images of perfectly smoked brisket and succulent ribs. Yet, nestled within its rich culinary landscape is another legendary cut that holds a special place in the hearts of pitmasters and barbecue aficionados alike: the Texas BBQ pork steak. These thick, bone-in slices of pork shoulder, cooked […]

A pioneering chef redefines a Texan classic, proving wild game’s place in traditional comfort food. [City, State] – [Date] – In a culinary twist that bridges the vast landscapes of Canada’s Alberta backcountry with the heart of Texas, renowned chef Matt Pittman has unveiled a groundbreaking interpretation of a beloved regional dish: Bear Guisada. Moving […]

Texas – June 29, 2026 – In a remarkable culinary journey that bridges the icy depths of Canadian waters with the sun-baked landscapes of Texas, a remarkable 20-pound Chinook salmon, affectionately nicknamed "the beauty," has been transformed into a smoked masterpiece. This extraordinary catch, expertly prepared using the signature "Meat Church" methodology, offers a testament […]

By Steve Nestor In the realm of outdoor cooking, where the allure of smoky meats and perfectly grilled vegetables often takes center stage, dessert can sometimes be an afterthought. However, for seasoned grill enthusiasts and culinary adventurers alike, the sweet possibilities that emerge from the heat of a grill are as diverse and rewarding as […]