29/06/2024
Barbecue, or BBQ, has a long and storied history that dates back thousands of years. The origins of barbecue can be traced back to indigenous peoples in the Caribbean, who cooked meat over open flames on wooden grills.
When Spanish conquistadors arrived in the Americas in the 16th century, they encountered indigenous peoples cooking meat in this manner and were impressed by the delicious flavors and tenderness of the meat. They brought back this cooking technique to Europe, where it eventually spread to other parts of the world.
Barbecue as we know it today has its roots in the southern United States, particularly in the region known as the South. African slaves brought with them a tradition of slow-cooking meat over indirect heat, which eventually merged with European and Native American cooking techniques to create the modern style of BBQ.
In the 19th century, BBQ became popular in the American South, where it became a staple of social gatherings and celebrations. Pitmasters honed their skills over generations, developing unique methods and flavor profiles that vary from region to region.
Throughout the 20th century, BBQ continued to grow in popularity, eventually spreading to other parts of the United States and around the world. Today, BBQ is enjoyed by millions of people and has evolved into a global culinary phenomenon, with competitions, festivals, and dedicated restaurants celebrating this beloved cooking tradition.