Different BBQ Styles Found Around The World

Barbecue, or "BBQ" for short, is a beloved cooking method and cultural tradition around the world. From the smoky pits of Texas to the streets of Seoul, each region has its own unique style of BBQ, each with its own flavors, techniques, and ingredients.

In the southern United States, BBQ is often associated with slow-smoking meats like brisket, pork shoulder, and ribs. The sauce is typically tomato-based, with a sweet and tangy flavor. This style of BBQ originated in the 18th century with enslaved Africans, who used the smoking technique to preserve meat. Today, it is a staple of southern cuisine and can be found at BBQ joints and competitions across the region.

In the Caribbean, BBQ is all about the spices. Jerk seasoning, a blend of spices including allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers, is used to marinate and flavor meats like chicken and pork. This style of BBQ originated in Jamaica and is now popular throughout the Caribbean. Street vendors in Jamaica and other islands often sell "jerk chicken" from roadside stands or food trucks.

In South America, BBQ is often referred to as "asado" and is a social event. Large cuts of meat, such as beef, pork, and lamb, are cooked over an open fire or grill. The meat is seasoned with herbs and spices, and often served with chimichurri, a sauce made from parsley, garlic, and vinegar. Asado is a common way to entertain guests and celebrate special occasions in countries such as Argentina, Uruguay, and Chile.

In South Africa, “braai” is a way of life. Braai is a social event, often bringing families and friends together for a day of good food, good company, and good times.

The traditional Braai is done over an open fire, and the meat is cooked on a grid or "braai stand" over the fire. The most popular meats for Braai include boerewors (a traditional South African sausage), steak, lamb chops, and chicken. The meat is seasoned with a variety of spices, including salt, pepper, and paprika, and is often served with traditional South African sides such as pap (maize porridge), chakalaka (a spicy vegetable relish), and bredie (a stew made with meat and vegetables).

Braai is not limited to meat, however, it's also a great way to cook fish, and vegetables such as corn on the cob, sweet potatoes, and mushrooms. The fire is usually made with wood, charcoal, or briquettes, giving the food a smoky flavor that is unique to Braai.

In Asia, BBQ is a popular street food. In Korea, "bulgogi" is a marinated beef dish, often cooked on a grill at the table. In Vietnam, "nem nướng" is a dish of grilled pork sausage. In China, "char siu" is a Cantonese dish of roasted or grilled pork. In Thailand, “satay” is a dish of marinated chicken cooked direct over hot coals. These Asian BBQ dishes are often served with a variety of dipping sauces and vegetables.

No matter where you go in the world, you're bound to find some form of BBQ. Each region has its own unique flavours and techniques, and trying them all can be a delicious adventure.

Check out the other posts on North African Tagine cooking, Korean Gogigui, Asian Tandoor, German Schwenker, Hawaiian Imu, or Mexican Barbacoa for even more inspiration on your next cook!

So next time you fire up the grill, consider branching out and experimenting with new flavors and styles of BBQ from around the world.