|
Each May, dedicated barbecue hounds from around the world (last year's contest drew
teams from as far away as New Zealand) descend upon Memphis, Tenn. for the World
Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest. Referred to by contestants as simply "The Big
One," the contest takes place on the banks of the Mississippi River in Tom Lee Park.
At this year's contest (May 16 - 17) 250 teams will compete for whole hog, shoulder,
and rib trophies.
About 40 judges will determine just who cooks the best barbecue in the land. Before rushing
to offer your help as a judge at this year's event, you should be aware that here, at the
World Championship Barbecue Contest, judging barbecue is a very serious matter.
Before the you can get your hands on a smoky slab of competition-quality ribs, you've
got to pass mustard, er muster...
That means a day long seminar followed by an exit examination. (Call 901-525-4611 to
enroll in classes held periodically throughout the South) Not willing to dedicate a day to
learning the intricacies of barbecue judging? Don't fret. I've done the tough work for you...
|
Pork, Sweat and Beers: Is there anything else?
Photos by John T. Edge
John T. goes to barbecue school
|
