Slow cooking on a BBQ is a fantastic way to prepare tender, flavorful meat that falls off the bone. It’s a cooking method that requires patience, but the results are worth it.
What is Slow Cooking?
Slow cooking is a cooking method that uses low heat and long cooking times to break down tough meat fibers and make them tender. This method is often used for large cuts of meat like brisket, pork shoulder, and ribs.
Why Use a BBQ for Slow Cooking?
Using a BBQ for slow cooking has a few benefits. First, it imparts a delicious smoky flavor that’s hard to replicate in an oven or slow cooker. Second, a BBQ can maintain a low, steady temperature for hours, making it ideal for slow cooking.
How to Prepare Meat for Slow Cooking
Before you start slow cooking, you need to prepare the meat. For cuts like brisket and pork shoulder, you’ll want to trim any excess fat and apply a dry rub. The dry rub can be made with a variety of spices, and it helps to flavor the meat and create a tasty crust.
Once you’ve applied the dry rub, you can let the meat sit in the fridge overnight to allow the flavors to develop. When you’re ready to cook, let the meat sit at room temperature for 30 minutes to an hour to take the chill off.
How to Set Up a BBQ for Slow Cooking
Setting up a BBQ for slow cooking requires a bit of preparation. You’ll want to use a charcoal grill with a lid, as this will help maintain a steady temperature. Start by lighting a chimney of charcoal and letting it burn until it’s covered in gray ash.
Next, place a drip pan in the center of the BBQ and fill it with water. This will help regulate the temperature and keep the meat moist. You can also add wood chips to the charcoal to create smoke and enhance the flavor of the meat.
Once the BBQ is set up, place the meat on the grill grates, away from the direct heat. Put the lid on the BBQ, and adjust the vents to maintain a temperature of around 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit.
How to Monitor the Temperature
Monitoring the temperature is crucial when slow cooking on a BBQ. You’ll want to use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat reaches the correct internal temperature. For beef brisket and pork shoulder, the internal temperature should be around 200-205 degrees Fahrenheit.
You’ll also want to check the temperature of the BBQ every 30 minutes to an hour to ensure it’s maintaining a steady temperature. You may need to adjust the vents or add more charcoal to keep the temperature consistent.
How Long to Slow Cook Meat on a BBQ
Slow cooking times can vary depending on the cut of meat and the size of the BBQ. Generally, you can expect to slow cook beef brisket and pork shoulder for 10-12 hours. Ribs can be slow cooked for 4-6 hours.
It’s important to remember that slow cooking is a slow process, and you’ll need to be patient. Resist the urge to check the meat too often or open the lid of the BBQ. This can cause the temperature to fluctuate and slow down the cooking process.
In conclusion, slow cooking on a BBQ is a delicious way to prepare tender, flavorful meat. With a bit of preparation and patience, you can create mouth-watering dishes that will impress your family and friends. So fire up the BBQ and get ready to enjoy some of the best slow-cooked meat you’ve ever tasted!