STORIES
Barbecue stories, pitmaster profiles, recipes, techniques, gear and regional traditions from across the culture of smoke and fire.
MATCHING STORIES

Memphis Barbecue Is Not All Sauce: Dry-Rub Ribs Are Part of the City’s Identity
Memphis barbecue includes both sauce and dry-rub traditions, with paprika-forward spice blends and iconic dry ribs helping define the city’s barbecue identity.

Entry-Level Pitmasters Get a Shot at Memphis in May Through the Carriage Crossing Cookout
The Carriage Crossing Cookout is designed for entry-level pitmasters, with a grand prize that includes paid entry into the 2027 Memphis in May Patio Porkers division or a cash alternative.

Meat. Fire. Repeat.
Official Pit Culture merchandise from Texas Thread Theory, built for people who live for fire, smoke and low-and-slow weekends.

How Memphis in May Barbecue Judging Works Behind the Smoke
The World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest uses trained judges and multiple judging formats. Here is what fans and aspiring competitors should understand about the process.