By Steven Raichlen, 5-time James Beard Award-winner and Barbecue Hall of Famer For too long, the humble potato has been relegated to the sidelines of the barbecue world, primarily known for its golden-fried alter ego. But across the vast culinary landscape of "Planet Barbecue," the potato undergoes a remarkable transformation when kissed by live fire. […]

By Steven Raichlen, 5-time James Beard Award-winner and Barbecue Hall of Famer Updated for 2026 In the pantheon of grilled delights, few dishes command as much universal adoration as the humble hamburger. Yet, as Steven Raichlen, a titan of the barbecue world, starkly points out, the landscape is littered with culinary casualties – burgers that […]

California’s Iconic Alisal Ranch to Host Renowned Culinary Event September 7-10, 2026 SOLVANG, CA – April 28, 2026 – The scent of hardwood smoke will once again grace the picturesque landscape of Alisal Ranch as Barbecue University, the nation’s premier hands-on barbecue experience, announces its highly anticipated 2026 session. From September 7th to 10th, culinary […]

A culinary titan unveils the fires that forged his legacy, from a childhood fascination with flames to a global barbecue revolution. April 21, 2026 – The culinary world is abuzz with the long-awaited release of "Man on Fire: Of Life, Love, Literature, and Really Good Barbecue," the deeply personal memoir penned by Steven Raichlen, the […]