The smell of barbecue wafting through the neighborhood is a sure sign that summer has arrived. Nothing says warm summer days like the smoky, sweet scent of meat cooking over an open flame. Classic BBQ recipes are perfect for a summer cookout with friends and family.
A classic Southern barbecue recipe is Memphis-style ribs. For fall-off-the-bone tender ribs, season the ribs generously with a dry rub of chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Slow cook the ribs in the oven at 300 F for 2 to 3 hours until the meat is pulling back from the bones. Finish the ribs on a hot grill or over hot coals for that authentic smoky flavor. Serve the ribs with a tangy barbecue sauce for dipping.
For a taste of Texas, beef brisket is a must. Rub the brisket all over with a spice mix of chili powder, cumin, garlic, and onion. Slow smoke the brisket fat side up at 225 F for at least 10 hours. The low and slow cooking helps break down the collagen in the meat, resulting in an incredibly tender brisket. Slice the brisket and serve it on bread or alongside your favorite BBQ sides like baked beans, coleslaw and cornbread.
Nothing says summer like the sweet, tangy taste of Kansas City-style barbecue sauce. For authentic KC barbecue chicken, coat chicken pieces in your favorite barbecue rub and grill over indirect heat until the chicken is cooked through. During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the chicken generously with Kansas City-style barbecue sauce for a flavorful glaze. The ketchup and molasses-based sauce pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.
A Carolina classic, pulled pork barbecue sandwiches are always a hit. Season a pork shoulder generously with salt and your favorite barbecue rub. Smoke the pork shoulder at 225 F for 8 to 12 hours until extremely tender. Shred the pork with two forks and season with more barbecue rub and vinegar-based Carolina mustard sauce. Pile the shredded pork onto hamburger buns and top with coleslaw for a delicious pulled pork sandwich.
Nothing caps off a barbecue feast like homemade peach cobbler. Toss fresh peaches with sugar, cinnamon and cornstarch and pour into a baking dish. Top with a sweet biscuit dough or pie crust and bake until the peaches are bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Serve the warm cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic Southern dessert. A perfect sweet ending to a perfect summer barbecue.