winter bbq?

Here in Portland Oregon as we all know its wet! and can get pretty cold in comparison to the south (the birthplace of great BBQ)

Most BBQ restaurants use indoor electric smokers to make their food, so winter weather doesn’t affect them. Just like backyard grilling and cooking working out in the cold has its challenges.

Assuming you are able to stay under cover and dry, wind has the most effect on cooking outdoors. Most smokers or grills can get up to temperature no problem, but any wind gust can quickly cool down your cooking device causing temperature swings. In BBQ smoking that temperature swing can be a problem, causing tough meat, extended cook times, excess fuel consumption and the possibility of burning your meat as temperature spikes. Maintaining the proper temperature by constantly checking your fire, avoiding opening the door to let heat escape and using an insulating blanket can help you achieve great results even in the harshest conditions.

Tex-mex cuisine has tons of great stews such as Green Chile stew which can be made with pork or beef in a spicy green sauce, Birria which is a goat stew in a flavorful rich red sauce, and of course Texas chili made with a blend of ground meats and beef chunks for a great texture. These delicious stews are great in any weather but are the best in cold weather while sitting outdoors around your fire pit.

Be adventurous, don’t let the weather hold you back, with some planning and patience Winter outdoor cooking can be as great as summer cooking.

Make some great memories, eat great food, and keep on Rockin’!