The barbecue industry continues to dominate in the United States. Namely, outside of the restaurant business, the way in which this industry continues to have such an influence is through the number of barbecue sauces available. With nearly $2 billion spent per year in the United States developing these sauces, it’s hard to believe someone wouldn’t be able to find a sauce right for them in a supermarket nearest them. With that being said, some people may prefer their homemade recipes; whether they be fresh or passed down through multiple generations.
Even with an endless supply of sauces to choose from, barbecue enthusiasts are left with one question: Which one should I choose? While it’s hard to say that any one sauce is better than another, there are certain sauces that pair best with specific meats. The sauce you choose for your ribs might not be the best sauce to pair with your pulled chicken. The best sauce isn’t fully realized until it’s paired with the best meats. Finding that balance can be a challenge, though.
Luckily for those fascinated with finding the perfect pair, the resource accompanying this post can serve as a great tool. It’s the perfect help when you’re struggling to decide just where you want your sauce to land on the spicy or mild spectrum. Or maybe you’re unsure of whether or not a particular meat pairs well with a sweet or acidic sauce. Whatever the case might be, this resource is meant to help any pairing crisis that may arise.
Unfortunately, you may notice that there’s a bit of overlap between a number of sauces and meats. Namely because it’s hard to say that one sauce should be exclusive to one meat. Everyone’s tastes will differ, but the resource will provide a solid foundation of understanding of which sauces and meats are commonly paired. For example, Alabama’s classic white-BBQ pairs best with smoked chicken or pork, but that doesn’t limit anyone from making that sauce work on their brisket.
Sometimes the overlap can actually benefit you. For example, if you plan on hosting any barbecues this summer, it’s probably within your best interest to offer your guests a wide selection of different sauces. One of your guests may prefer sweet, another may prefer spicy. Giving them options is the best of both worlds so to speak and allows everyone’s’ preferences to shine through to create some wonderful meat and sauce pairings.
As a reminder, here are some of the most important tips shared in the infographic:
To begin, mastering your grill skills is much more important than finding the right sauce. No sauce will excuse poorly prepared meats after all.
Next, always consider incorporating some variety. You’ll never experience the perfect pair without extending past your barbecue comfort zone. Try those different meats and sauces, get adventurous.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, seek advice from those with barbecue mastery. Your local barbecue spots are a great place to learn all about different meats and sauces from the professionals. You may be able to learn a thing or two about the art of barbecue all while getting a great meal.
For additional information on this topic, please be sure to review the infographic coupled with this post. Courtesy of Dickey’s Barbecue Restaurants.