When it comes to barbecue, opinions on the best city can be as varied as the types of meats and sauces used in this beloved culinary tradition. However, one city stands out among the rest as the most iconic and revered barbecue destination in the United States: Kansas City, Missouri. In this article, we’ll delve into the rich history of Kansas City barbecue, explore its unique characteristics, and examine why it’s widely regarded as the barbecue capital of the world.
A Brief History of Kansas City Barbecue
Kansas City’s barbecue heritage dates back to the early 20th century, when pitmasters from the city’s stockyards and meatpacking plants began experimenting with slow-smoking meats over hickory wood. The city’s location at the confluence of the Kansas and Missouri rivers made it an ideal hub for the livestock industry, and the abundance of meat led to the development of a distinct barbecue style.
The Influence of Henry Perry
One man, Henry Perry, is often credited with putting Kansas City barbecue on the map. A former chef from Shelby County, Tennessee, Perry opened the first barbecue restaurant in Kansas City in 1907, serving slow-smoked meats to workers from the nearby stockyards. Perry’s restaurant, which he called “Perry’s Bar-B-Q,” quickly gained popularity, and his innovative use of a thick tomato-based sauce became a hallmark of Kansas City-style barbecue.
What Sets Kansas City Barbecue Apart
So, what makes Kansas City barbecue so unique? Here are a few key factors that contribute to its distinct flavor and reputation:
A Wide Variety of Meats
Unlike other barbecue styles, which often focus on a single type of meat (such as pulled pork in the Carolinas or beef brisket in Texas), Kansas City barbecue features a wide variety of meats, including:
- Slow-smoked ribs
- Burnt ends (the crispy, flavorful ends of smoked brisket)
- Smoked sausage
- Chicken
- Pork shoulder
- Beef brisket
A Thick, Sweet, and Tangy Sauce
Kansas City-style barbecue sauce is thick, sweet, and tangy, with a distinctive flavor that’s both familiar and unique. The sauce is typically applied during the last stages of cooking, allowing the meat to absorb the flavors and creating a sticky, caramelized crust.
A Focus on Slow-Smoking
Kansas City pitmasters are known for their dedication to slow-smoking, which involves cooking meats over low heat for several hours to achieve tender, fall-apart texture and deep, rich flavor. This process requires patience, skill, and attention to detail, but the results are well worth the effort.
Must-Visit Barbecue Joints in Kansas City
If you’re planning a trip to Kansas City, here are a few must-visit barbecue joints to add to your itinerary:
- Arthur Bryant’s: This iconic restaurant has been serving up classic Kansas City barbecue since 1952. Don’t miss the burnt ends and the signature sauce.
- Gates Bar-B-Q: With multiple locations throughout the city, Gates is a Kansas City institution. Try the slow-smoked ribs and the combo platter, which features a sampling of meats and sides.
- Joe’s Kansas City BB-Q: This casual, no-frills joint is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss the Z-Man sandwich, which features slow-smoked brisket, provolone cheese, and a tangy barbecue sauce.
- LC’s Bar-B-Q: This family-owned restaurant has been serving up delicious barbecue since 1985. Try the slow-smoked ribs and the homemade sides, including the creamy coleslaw and the crispy fried okra.
Barbecue Competitions and Festivals
Kansas City is home to several barbecue competitions and festivals throughout the year, including:
- The American Royal World Series of Barbecue: This annual competition, held in October, attracts top pitmasters from around the world and features live music, food vendors, and a barbecue marketplace.
- The Kansas City Barbeque Society’s BBQ Festival: This two-day festival, held in June, features live music, barbecue demonstrations, and a competition for amateur pitmasters.
Conclusion
Kansas City, Missouri, is widely regarded as the barbecue capital of the world, and for good reason. The city’s rich history, unique characteristics, and dedication to slow-smoking have created a distinct barbecue style that’s both familiar and innovative. Whether you’re a barbecue aficionado or just looking for a delicious meal, Kansas City is a must-visit destination that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Plan Your Trip to Kansas City
If you’re planning a trip to Kansas City, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Get there early: Barbecue joints can get crowded, especially during peak hours. Plan to arrive early to avoid long wait times.
- Be prepared for a wait: Even with a plan, you may still encounter a wait. Bring a friend, grab a drink, and enjoy the atmosphere while you wait.
- Try a variety of meats: Kansas City barbecue is all about variety, so be sure to try a few different meats and sides to get a true taste of the city’s barbecue style.
- Don’t forget the sauce: Kansas City-style barbecue sauce is a key component of the city’s barbecue tradition. Be sure to try a few different sauces and find your favorite.
By following these tips and exploring the city’s many barbecue joints, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the best of Kansas City barbecue.
What city is known as the Barbecue Capital of the World?
Lexington, North Carolina, is widely recognized as the Barbecue Capital of the World. This city has been perfecting the art of barbecue for centuries, and its unique style has gained international acclaim. Lexington-style barbecue is distinct from other regional styles, with a focus on slow-cooked pork shoulder, tangy vinegar-based sauce, and a side of classic Southern comfort food.
Lexington’s reputation as the Barbecue Capital of the World is not just a claim – it’s a title that has been officially recognized by the state of North Carolina. The city hosts the annual Lexington Barbecue Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. The festival celebrates the city’s rich barbecue heritage, with live music, cooking demonstrations, and plenty of delicious ‘cue.
What makes Lexington-style barbecue unique?
Lexington-style barbecue is distinct from other regional styles due to its focus on slow-cooked pork shoulder. The pork is cooked over wood or charcoal for several hours, resulting in tender, juicy meat that’s full of flavor. The sauce is also a key component of Lexington-style barbecue – it’s a tangy, vinegar-based sauce that’s applied to the meat during the cooking process, giving it a unique flavor profile.
Another key aspect of Lexington-style barbecue is the use of wood in the cooking process. Traditional barbecue joints in Lexington use wood or charcoal to cook their meat, which gives it a rich, smoky flavor. The type of wood used can vary, but hickory and oak are popular choices. The combination of slow-cooked pork, tangy sauce, and smoky wood flavor makes Lexington-style barbecue a truly unique and delicious experience.
What are some popular barbecue joints in Lexington?
Lexington is home to many world-class barbecue joints, each with its own unique style and flavor profile. Some popular options include Scott’s Bar-B-Q, Lexington Barbecue, and Barbecue Center. These joints have been serving up delicious ‘cue for decades, and they’re a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Lexington-style barbecue.
Another popular option is Jimmy’s Bar-B-Q, which has been featured on food TV shows and has gained a loyal following among barbecue enthusiasts. The joint is known for its tender, smoky meat and its classic Southern sides, including collard greens and hush puppies. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s a barbecue joint in Lexington that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
What is the history of barbecue in Lexington?
Barbecue has a long and rich history in Lexington, dating back to the early days of the city. The area was settled by European colonists in the 18th century, who brought their own culinary traditions with them. Barbecue was a popular cooking method among the colonists, who would slow-cook meat over wood or charcoal for special occasions.
Over time, barbecue became an integral part of Lexington’s culture and identity. The city’s unique style of barbecue developed in the early 20th century, with the establishment of the first barbecue joints. These joints were often small, family-owned businesses that served up delicious ‘cue to locals and travelers alike. Today, barbecue is a beloved tradition in Lexington, with many families passing down their secret recipes and cooking techniques from generation to generation.
What is the annual Lexington Barbecue Festival?
The annual Lexington Barbecue Festival is a celebration of the city’s rich barbecue heritage. The festival takes place every October and attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. The event features live music, cooking demonstrations, and plenty of delicious ‘cue from local barbecue joints.
The festival also includes a barbecue cook-off, where local pitmasters compete to see who can make the best ‘cue. The event is judged by a panel of experts, who evaluate the entries based on taste, texture, and overall flavor profile. The winner receives a coveted trophy and bragging rights as the best barbecue joint in Lexington.
Can I take a barbecue tour of Lexington?
Yes, there are several barbecue tours available in Lexington that allow you to sample the city’s best ‘cue and learn about its rich barbecue heritage. These tours typically include visits to several local barbecue joints, where you can sample a variety of meats and sides.
Many of the tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can provide insight into the history and culture of barbecue in Lexington. You’ll learn about the different styles of barbecue, the secret ingredients and cooking techniques used by local pitmasters, and the role that barbecue plays in the city’s identity and traditions. Whether you’re a foodie or just a barbecue enthusiast, a tour is a great way to experience the best of Lexington’s barbecue scene.
Are there any barbecue-related attractions in Lexington?
Yes, there are several barbecue-related attractions in Lexington that are worth visiting. The Barbecue Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history and culture of barbecue. The museum features exhibits on the history of barbecue, the different styles and techniques used around the world, and the role that barbecue plays in Lexington’s identity and traditions.
Another popular attraction is the Lexington Barbecue Trail, a self-guided tour that takes you to several of the city’s best barbecue joints. The trail includes a map and guide that provides information on each of the joints, including their history, menu, and specialties. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the trail is a great way to experience the best of Lexington’s barbecue scene.