After extensively searching for the origin of the word, our own illustrious C. Clark "Smoky" Hale has uncovered the truth behind the word. In all honesty, the truth came to him! You see, Barbecue'n On The Internet had been "live" for about a year when Smoky was contacted by Peter Guanikeyu Torres, President and Council Chief of the Taino Indigenous Nation of the Caribbean and Florida. While most authorities go back to this tribe without any problem, only Smoky was able to obtain the real translation - - - from the great grandson of the Taino Chief himself! Torres translated "barbecue" for Smoky as follows: "Ba from Baba (father) Ra from Yara (place) Bi from Bibi (beginning) Cu from Guacu (the sacred fire) or 'the beginning of the sacred fire father'. He further explained that 'Taino barabicoa' means 'the stick stand with four legs and many sticks of wood on top to place the cooking meat.' He advised that 'Taino Barabicu' means 'the sacred fire pit.'" for more information, see Smoky's Glossary'".
Modern barbecuing possibly came to the United States in the early 1700's during General George Washington's time. Stories of cooking whole animals at large political gatherings abound. The southern influences came in and cooking of the pig became an ideal meat. Thus was born the phrase "going whole hog."
Who has the best barbecue? Fortunately, you get to decide for yourself. Could be Texas, or possibly Memphis. Many would argue that it must be Kansas City. We suggest you try them all and then decide! Each area has a distinctive touch and technique.
C. Clark 'Smoky' Hale, and Barbecue'n On The Internet will assist us in clearing up the many misconceptions about the Fine Art of Barbecue'n! We will look into the mysteries of barbecuing, provide detailed information on various grilling, smoking and barbecue'n aspects of outdoor cooking as well as make suggestions as to the features to look for in purchasing a new grill or barbecue pit (often referred to as a "smoker").
Visit Barbecue'n's "According to Smoky" column, and find a complete glossary of all outdoor cooking terms which can be thrown about casually to impress neighbors and friends alike! After all, not many folks really know the difference between smoking, barbecuing and grilling. Now you can be the expert too!
In Barbecue'n On The Internet's "According to Smoky", you will also find monthly columns by Smoky on other Barbecue'n topics and techniques. For your convenience, we have identified all information within this site supplied by Smoky with the little guy in the hammock!
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