Search
Close this search box.

How to Cold Smoke: A Simplified Guide To Delicious Flavors

how to cold smoke

Cold smoking is a technique that adds a unique and tantalizing flavor to a variety of foods. Understanding how to cold smoke is a valuable skill that can take your culinary creations to the next level. In this guide, we will explore the ins and outs of cold smoking, from the equipment you need to […]

How to Smoke Cheese: Simple Guide for Cold Smoky Cheesy Flavor

How to Smoke Cheese

Lots of people have approached me asking how to smoke cheese and Yes, this is a “thing”. If you are a cheese lover, let me tell you that cold smoking cheese is one of the best and easiest ways to add amazing flavor to cheese. In this article, we will guide you through the art […]

Best Wood for Smoking Fish: The List

best wood to smoke fish

When it comes to smoking fish, selecting the best wood is crucial to infuse the perfect flavors into your seafood delicacies. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or a beginner, choosing the right wood adds depth and complexity to your dish. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top choices for smoking fish, taking into […]

Guide to Pork Belly Cuts: Everything You Need to Know

pork belly cuts

Pork belly cuts are a culinary delight that offers a delicate balance of succulent meat and crispy goodness. From juicy bacon strips to mouthwatering pork belly roast, knowing your way around different pork belly cuts is essential for any food lover. In this article, we will explore the various types of pork belly cuts, their […]

How Does an Electric Smoker Work: A Comprehensive Guide

how does an electric smoker work

How does an electric smoker work? Simple, an electric heating element generates heat and you’re a fan of smoked meats and BBQ but don’t want to go through the hassle of tending to a traditional smoker, an electric smoker might be the perfect solution for you. In this article, we will dive into the inner […]

The Ultimate Guide to 7 Different Types of Pizza

Types of Pizza

In this guide, we will take you on a mouthwatering journey through the different types of pizza that will leave you craving a slice. When it comes to popular and delicious comfort foods, pizza undoubtedly tops the list. With its countless variations and flavors, pizza has become a worldwide favorite. Pizza is a popular dish […]

Guide to the Different Types of Bacon

Types of Bacon

Did you know that there are actually different types of bacon? Yes, there are! When it comes to breakfast staples, bacon undoubtedly tops the list for many people. It’s crispy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the various kinds of bacon available and help you understand the key differences […]

How to Use a Pellet Grill: Simple Guide

how to use a pellet grill -

Learning how to use a pellet grill is extremely simple. These grills are pretty much automated and do all the hard work. The versatility and flavor they offer make them a favorite among backyard barbecue enthusiasts. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know to get the most out of your pellet grill. Understanding […]

How to Tell When Ribs are Done: 4 Quick Checks

how to tell when ribs are done - 1

When it comes to cooking delicious ribs, determining when ribs are done is key. Achieving perfectly cooked ribs with a tender texture and smoky flavor requires patience and precision. In this article, we will explore various tried-and-tested methods to help you determine when your ribs are done to perfection. Know When Ribs Are Done Using […]

Regional BBQ Sauce Styles: Exploring the Culinary Delights

Regional BBQ sauce styles

Regional BBQ sauce styles range from tangy and sweet to smoky and spicy, each sauce style adds a delicious twist to grilled and smoked meats. When it comes to barbecue, every region in the United States has its own distinct flavor profiles and cooking techniques, including sauces. In this article, we will take a journey […]

Complete List of cuts of Beef, Full

cuts of beef

You enjoy eating beef and are curious about all the other cuts of beef available to either try new options or expand your culinary repertoire. We will embark on a flavorful journey through various beef cuts. By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make informed purchasing decisions and create […]

How Much Charcoal to Use on a Grill or Smoker

How Much Charcoal to Use on a Grill

Grilling delicious food over charcoal is an art form that can yield exquisite flavors. In this article we teach you how much charcoal to use on a grill so you can cook meals on your grill the right way. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice, getting the right amount of charcoal for your […]

BBQ vs Grilling vs Smoking: Understanding the Key Differences

BBQ vs Grilling vs Smoking

BBQ vs Grilling vs Smoking, the big three in the outdoor cooking world. When it comes to outdoor cooking, three techniques stand out: BBQ, grilling, and smoking. While these methods all involve cooking delicious food over an open flame, they each have unique characteristics and outcomes. In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the […]

Exploring the Mouthwatering Varieties of Regional BBQ Styles in the US

Regional BBQ Styles in the US

When it comes to Regional BBQ styles, few parts of the US come to mind and are very popular. Many people may not realize is that barbecue can mean different things depending on where you are in the United States. Each region boasts its own unique style and flavor profiles, making the BBQ experience an […]

The Best Meats to Smoke and Delight Your Taste Buds

Best meats to smoke

The best meats to smoke can be categorized as, easy to cook, great for beginners, and even best for large groups. Smoking meats is not only a cooking method but also an art form that can take your barbecue game to the next level. In this article, we will explore the best meats you smoke […]

How to Keep Brisket Warm: A Complete Guide

keep brisket warm

The best way to keep a brisket warm is to cover it tightly and put it in an insulated container. This can keep your brisket warm for up to 6 hours and possibly more. For example, you can wrap the brisket in towels in place the briskets in a Yeti. As chefs, we had commercial […]

 Unveiling the Facts: Exploring Fascinating Statistics on Fast Food

Fast food has become an integral part of modern society, providing convenience and quick meals for busy individuals. However, have you ever wondered about the intriguing statistics surrounding this popular industry? In this article, we’ll delve into some eye-opening data that sheds light on the world of fast food. The Global Phenomenon: Fast food has […]

Brisket Fat Side Up or Down: Which Way is Best?

fat side up or down

When it comes to cooking brisket, one of the most hotly debated topics is whether to cook it with the fat side up or down. Some people swear by cooking their brisket with the fat side up, while others insist that it’s better to cook it with the fat side down. In this blog post, […]

Reverse Sear vs Sear: A Comparison of Two Popular Cooking Methods

Reverse Sear vs Sear Steak

Cooking a juicy and perfectly grilled steak can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the right cooking method. Two popular methods are the “Reverse Sear” and the “Sear” method. While both methods produce delicious steaks, they have their differences. In this article, we will compare the Reverse Sear vs Sear method […]

What is Butcher Paper and all types explained

butcher paper

Butcher paper is very common, and many of us have used or handled a piece of meat wrapped in this kind of paper. Many people have heard or seen butcher paper but have no idea what it is or what it has to offer.  What is it, why is it used to wrap meat, what […]

bear mountain pellets review

Bear Mountain Pellets Review

There are many pellet brands that claim to be the best, but one company stands out, Bear Mountain.  Bear Mountain makes amazing, high quality wood pellets, and I personally have had the pleasure of cooking with these pellets and burning through a few pounds of this stuff. Their pellets provide not only high quality but […]

When to wrap brisket: And Methods Demonstrated

When to wrap brisket

Brisket is one of the most popular BBQ dishes you can experience. When a brisket is properly smoked to perfection and done the right way, it is meat heaven.  To achieve good results, you employ a few tricks, including wrapping, but for this method to be effective, it has to be done at the right […]

Meatstick vs Meater – A Detailed Comparison of Two Popular Smart Thermometers

the meatstick and meater compared

The Meatstick Vs Meater topic has been a hot one in recent years and you could say these two brands are the most popular choices. The MeatStick and the Meater are both leading the wireless smart thermometer race and have inspired many household brands to release their own versions. Many of our readers get stuck […]

The Pit Boss Laredo 1000 – In Depth Review 2024

The Pit Boss Platinum Laredo 1000

I’m sure you’ve heard of Pit Boss by now. Pit Boss has been making affordable pellet grills for many, many years. Not only do they make pellet grills, but they also offer other types of smokers, including verticals. In recent years, Pit Boss has been working on improving the quality of its grills and matching […]

Meater Plus Thermometer Review by The BBQ Grill Academy Team

The Meater plus review

The Meater Plus is a new line of wireless grill thermometers and the future of cooking. BBQ meat smoking and grilling often require paying close attention to the meat’s internal temperature. When smoking meat, it is extremely helpful to monitor the progress of the internal temperature as it rises and, better yet, set alerts for […]

How to Make a Smoker: A DIY Build Guide

DYI-Somkers-How-to-make-one

Building a smoker can be both very rewarding and a great way to save a few bucks. Besides building an amazing machine to smoke meat and cook amazing foods, the real reason why many people DIY smokers is because it’s a great way of getting everything you want the way you want it and how […]

What is uncured ham – Explained

uncured ham

The term “uncured” can often be indecently misleading as many believe that it refers to a healthier or better than cured ham. In this article I explain what uncured ham really is what defines ham as incurred, how to cook uncured ham as well as more information to help lea  Let’s start with a ham.  […]

Porterhouse vs Ribeye Differences Explained 

porterhouse vs ribeye

Many of our readers have asked us to compare a porterhouse and a ribeye steak. Which one is better? How to tell the difference between the two and how to identify them if they are placed on a plate in front of you. Both are amazing and tasteful cuts of meat. Both steaks pack a […]

When is Charcoal ready to grill and cook?

when is charcoal ready

Charcoal is ready to cook when there is a grey ash cap covering the coal and any lighting fluid or other igniter has completely burned off. Charcoal can take up to 20 minutes to be ready, but this time frame can be affected by the type of grill, weather conditions, and, of course, the type […]

how long does ground beef last in the fridge AND Freezer

How long does ground beef last in the fridge

In this article, I will answer how long does ground beef last in your fridge but also how long it lasts in the freezer, signs of spoilage, and tips to help extend the life of the beef. Ground beef is a popular meat and works for many recipes and dishes. However, one ground beef does […]

Brisket Internal Temp For Tenderness and Best Results

Brisket internal temperatures

Beef brisket is one of the most popular BBQ dishes, and when smoked the right way, following all the proper steps and methods, and cooked to the right internal temperature, the results are one of the most delicious and juicy cuts of meat you can have. One of the most important aspects of smoking a […]

how to clean grill a brush: 3 Simple and Effective Methods

How to Clean Grill Brushes

Cleaning your grill brushes regularly is important to preserving their effectiveness, extending their lifespan, and keeping bacteria at bay. In this article, I will show you three methods to clean your grill brush and keep it in top shape. It’s not hard to clean these brushes, but it is important.  Why is it important to […]

Tips for Keeping Your Grill in Top Shape

Tips for keeping your grill in good shape

BBQ grills can be a large investment, and some grill models can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to thousands of dollars. So it makes sense to take the necessary steps to safeguard your grill and your investment. Some people don’t really care much about upkeep and maintaining a cheap grill, but if you […]

How to clean a pellet grill – Simply Explained

how to clean a pellet grill

We all love our pellet grills and enjoy cooking with them. When the fun is over, it is time to clean. I know we just want to keep grilling and cooking good food, but if you don’t take care of your grill, it doesn’t matter how good or expensive it is, it will go bad. […]

New York Strip vs Ribeye: What are the Differences and Similarities

New York Strip vs Ribeye

Sometimes, choosing a steak comes down to personal preference, but being aware of the distinctions between the various steak cuts can help you make an informed choice and ensure that you get what you want.  In this article we will explain the differences between New York strip and ribeye. Both of these cuts of meat […]

5 Traeger Alternatives and Competitors offering Value, Features, and Quality

Traeger Alternatives

The Traeger name is synonymous with pellet BBQ grills, and for good reason. Traeger created the pellet grill and has produced a wide range of grill models over the years.  Traeger is the industry leader in grill technology and innovation, but all that innovation comes at a hefty cost. Also, not everyone wants a Traeger […]

Best Grills For Beginners: 5 Great options to get you started in BBQ

Best Grills for Beginners

If you’re new to the BBQ and grilling world, or simply looking for a grill to get you started, this guide will show you five great grills for those starting out in BBQ and grilling. We will share with you a list of the best grills for beginners and also what you should consider before […]

How to Clean a Flat Top Grill or Griddle: 3 Different methods and easy steps

How to clean a flat top grill griddle

In this guide, I will show you how to clean a flat top grill, more commonly known as a griddle. I own a Blackstone griddle and have tested various methods for removing food debris, old grease, and fat from its surface.  There are many “suggestions” on the Internet. People have come up with creative names […]

Ribeye vs T bone Steak: What’s the Difference?

Ribeye vs t bone

In this article, we compare ribeye and T bone steak and explain the main differences. Knowing the differences between various meat cuts is a good way to know what you’re getting on your plate, what flavor to anticipate, and, for steak lovers, which steak cut is superior to another. The primary distinction between ribeye and […]

pork belly vs bacon: The difference Explained

Pork Belly VS Bacon

Bacon and pork belly are both cuts of pork obtained from the pig’s belly. This is basically where the similarities end and the differences begin. In this article, we are comparing pork belly vs bacon to help you understand what each meat cut is, what each is used for, as well as cooking and preparation […]

The Best Knife for Cutting Meat

Best Knife for Cutting Meat

A good knife for cutting meat has to be sharp but also withstand the abuse of cutting raw or hot meat. In this article, I share seven options, including various types of meat-cutting knives.  To find the best knives for cutting meat among the many options, I selected and evaluated 15 knives to determine which […]

Z grills 450B Pellet Grill review 2024

Z Grills 450B Review

One of Z Grills’ best-selling models is the 450 model. Recently, the 450 was updated and improved and is now known as the Z Grills 450B. In our Z Grills 450B review, we take a brand new Z Grills 450B and put it through a series of tests to see how well this new model […]

The Best BBQ Grill Mats in 2024

bbq grill mat

If you have been around the BBQ community and have been following BBQ trends, you have likely heard of grill mats. Eggs, for instance, cannot be cooked evenly on grill grates, but they can be cooked evenly on grill mats. Grill mats add great convenience. You can almost transform your grill into a griddle, cook […]

Top 6 Best Campfire Cooking Kits

best campfire cooking kits

If you enjoy camping and cooking outdoors, a good campfire cooking kit can make cooking foods and meals outdoors much easier. In this article, I will show you a list of the best campfire cooking kits based on my own years of experience camping, cooking outdoors, and handling a campfire. I also go over what […]

BBQ Books: The Top 6 Best Smoker Cookbooks in 2024

best smoker cookbooks

Picking up a BBQ cookbook to learn how to smoke meat is one of the best decisions a BBQ enthusiast can make. There are thousands of videos and articles available, but these smoker cookbooks are incredible sources of years of expertise and award-winning recipes from renowned and highly regarded pitmasters. BBQ is very subjective. What […]

Oklahoma Joe Rider DLX Reviewed: The Good and the Bad

oklahoma joe rider dlx

As a BBQ enthusiast, the name Oklahoma Joe brings to mind images of “rugged”, charcoal-burning smokers. That’s because Oklahoma Joe has been making rustic-looking charcoal grills and offset smokers for a long time now. The classic, solid wagon wheels are a recognizable and signature feature of Oklahoma Joe’s smokers. However, times change and every company […]

Z Grills 700D4E Review – New, Improved and Better

Z Grills 700D4E Review

If you’re in the market for a new grill, Z Grills has just released a new and advanced model, the Z Grills 700D4E. This grill is brimming with features and conveniences that are designed to enhance your cooking experience. In this article, we’ll review the 700D4E but also go over all its features and take […]

5 best gas grills under 500 Dollars in 2024

best gas grills under 500 dollars

In this article, I will share with you and review the five gas grills for under 500 dollars. If you’re in the market for a new grill, but don’t want to spend a fortune, we’ve got you covered. We’ll talk about what makes each option good, and help you decide which one could be a […]

The New Traeger Grills Timberline XL – Review and What’s New

Traeger timberline xl

Traeger Timberline XL Review: New Features, Pricing, and Our Thoughts Traeger has just released their latest pellet grill, the Timberline XL. This model is an upgrade to the popular Timberline 850 and 1300 models. It features several new improvements, including a Wi-Fi-enabled controller, an upgraded auger system, and a redesigned hopper lid. The Timberline XL […]

Best Meat Slicers for home use to get great cuts

meat slicers for home

You love making meat sandwiches out of that leftover brisket or like to buy food in bulk and slice it yourself, but you don’t want to spend all day slicing and dicing it. That’s when a meat and food slicer is a good tool to have around the house. With a meat electric slicer in […]

How to Grill Frozen Burgers: Tips and Tricks

how to grill frozen burgers

If you are searching for how to grill frozen burgers, you are like the rest of us, short on time but want a juicy burger, but oh, yes, they are frozen. Of course, you have no time to watch them thaw out for hours on your kitchen counter. However, if you’re someone who often finds […]

Best BBQ Rubs to Up your BBQ Game in 2024

best barbecue rubs

I have compiled a list of the best BBQ rubs, including every flavor profile and for different types of meat, including ribs, chicken, fish, and beef. Good BBQ rubs can make good meat taste better and transform plain ‘ol ribs into award-winning meat. Even though pitmasters are very secretive about their recipes, many of them […]

Best Wireless Meat Thermometers you Can Use with Your Grill or Smoker Per Our Tests

best wireless meat thermometers

A wireless meat thermometer offers flexibility, accuracy, and temperature information helpful for cooking food to the right doneness level. The best wireless thermometers can monitor the internal temperature of whatever you are cooking accurately and are one of the easiest ways to get consistent results to serve delicious food. These devices connect to your home’s WiFi […]

Best Wood Pellets For Smoking in 2024: Better Flavors

best wood pellets for smoking

After testing and cooking using different wood pellet brands, as illustrated below, we found that Bear Mountain wood pellets offer a delicate balance between quality, flavor, and value; and are our top choice and the best wood pellets for smoking just about anything. I share in this article our test results and the top wood […]

How do you use Pit Boss App – Smoke It App

pit boss smoke it app

The Pit Boss App has been updated the Smoke It App and to bring more and better features and support their new grill lineup. If you are not sure how to use the Pit Boss Smoke IT app or how to set it up or use it, we will cover just that in this article. […]

11 Best Pellet Smokers and Pellet Grills in 2024

best pellet smoker

In this article, I share my top 11 pellet smokers and grill picks after doing my own research and our own testing. Pellet smokers are becoming more popular among BBQ fans of all skill levels because they are easy to use and deliver great wood-fire flavor. Pellet smokers are simple to operate since they are […]

The 7 Best Drum Smokers (Ugly Smokers): A Different Way to Smoked BBQ

best drum smoker

So you have been doing your homework and have discovered drum smokers. You have fallen in love with the idea and now are looking for good drum smokers to add to your backyard collection. In this article, we will review popular models and help you learn what to look for in a good drum smoker. There […]

Best Smokeless Indoor Grills in 2024

This article will show you seven incredible smokeless indoor grills. We also go over what to look for in a quality indoor grill and what to avoid when buying one. The popularity of indoor smokeless grills is growing, and for good reasons. Sure, an indoor grill can not replace a charcoal or even a gas […]

The Best Smoker Grill Combo 2024: Two Worlds in One

best smoker grill combo

In this article we bring you the best smoker grill combo grills which are ideal for people searching for a BBQ grill that can combine two worlds into one, grilling and smoking meat, plus being able to cook using more than just one type of fuel. If you enjoy smoking meats and grilling frequently and […]

How to Season ( Cure ) A New Smoker in 5 Easy Steps

how to season a smoker

So you finally purchased a brand new BBQ smoker grill. We hope you chose well and are ready to experience one of the most tasty forms of BBQ, smoked meats. I understand what it is like to open the box of a brand new smoker. I know you’re itching to put it all together and […]

What is a reverse flow smoker? Here is a simple explanation

what is a reverse flow smker

What is a reverse flow smoker ? How do they work ? In this article, we answer these and other questions to help you decide if a reverse-flow smoker is for you. So you began researching offset smokers and came across reverse flow smokers. Now you are confused and unsure what a reverse smoker is, […]

10 Best Tailgating Grills in 2024 to kick off the Season

best tailgating grill

​​Football season is here, and now is the time to get your gear ready for the next tailgate party. Whether you are a football fan or not, and whether we are in football season or not, this article brings you the best tailgating grills for the next party. We will go over the features that […]

The Best Portable Smoker for Road Trips, Camping, and Tailgating in 2024

best portable smoker

Want to smoke meats and BBQ at your next camping trip or tailgate party? If you are searching for a good portable smoker, in this article I share my findings after testing and researching the top smoker brands and models. Sure, some small smokers can be portable, but small doesn’t always equal portable, or good.  […]

Pit Barrel Cooker Review and Overview

pit barrel cooker review

We often come across a product, a barbecue grill, a recipe, or a company that captures our attention. This was the case when we came across the Pit Barrel Cooker.  Our first thoughts were to write a review, but we liked this company so much we decided to, besides writing a review, we also want […]

The Best Charcoal Smoker: Guide and Reviews

best charcoal smoker

Today we talk about charcoal smokers for smoking amazing BBQ feasts. Charcoal BBQ smokers are excellent for cooking authentic smokehouse-flavored BBQ at home. We like charcoal smokers because the combination of burning charcoal and hardwoods yields the richest, most authentic BBQ smoky flavor. If you master charcoal and fire control, these smokers will deliver the […]

How to Cook BBQ Ribs on a Gas Grill

rack of ribs on wood dish

I love to host friends and family for backyard get-togethers, but the standard menu of hot dogs and hamburgers can only go so far. That’s what prompted me to expand my grilling repertoire. If you’d like to learn how to cook ribs on a gas grill so that they come out perfectly every time, you’ve […]