Starter King: Your BBQ Competition Companion
Hartville, OH was alive a few weekends ago with the scents and smoke of an amazing BBQ competition, gathering vendors from all over Ohio. Grilling and BBQ masters all brought their A-game, churning out great food on top-tier equipment like Traeger, Weber, and Big Green Egg.
And the best part - free samples abound showcasing great rubs, sauces, local pizzerias and more. So, yeah, we were there!
And, as always, it’s great to see our friends at Roostertail BBQ deep in competition with some bricks of Starter King standing tall by their side.
How to Win the Battle of the BBQ
When we talk about BBQ/grilling, the image that often comes to mind is that of sunny backyards, laughter, and a slow-cooked feast. But there’s another side to BBQ, one that's competitive, intense, and incredibly rewarding (if you’re strong enough). Competitive BBQ isn’t just about who makes the food; it's a sport with its own set of rules, challenges, and champions.
For those brave souls who step into this arena, the preparation begins long before the day of the event. It starts with researching, understanding the event’s rules and regulations. Each competition has its own set of guidelines, from the kind of meat you can use to the cooking methods allowed. This research phase is crucial because, in the world of competitive BBQ, even a small oversight can cost you the competition.
Choosing the right meat is the next big decision. Quality matters, and finding that perfect cut can mean the difference between a good dish and a great one. But it's not just about buying the best meat; it's about practicing, refining, and perfecting the recipe. This requires numerous trials, adjusting based on feedback, and the patience to keep tweaking until perfection is achieved.
On the day of the competition, timing is everything.
The process isn’t just about cooking; it's about marinating, smoking, resting, and serving, all orchestrated ahead of time. And then there's the smoke—a distinguishing aspect of BBQ. The choice of wood, the consistency of the smoke, and the duration can significantly influence the dish's final taste.
While the taste is paramount, the presentation cannot be ignored. A well-presented dish tells a story; it showcases the care, passion, and attention to detail of the pitmaster. From garnishes to the way the meat is carved, every little detail counts.
And what's BBQ without the sauce? For many competitors, this is where their secret weapon lies. A good sauce complements the meat, enhancing its flavors without overshadowing them. Balancing sweetness, spiciness, tanginess, and savoriness can be a challenging task, but when done right, it can elevate the dish to new heights.
Veteran competitors often share words of wisdom with newcomers. Among the most common advice is the importance of consistency. One spectacular dish might win you a competition, but consistent excellence is what builds a reputation. And while understanding the judges' preferences is crucial, the most memorable dishes often have a personal touch, reflecting the pitmaster's own journey, stories, and experiences.
The world of competitive BBQ is dynamic, with new techniques, flavors, and trends emerging regularly. Staying updated, networking with fellow enthusiasts, and being open to learning are the keys to success in this ever-evolving world.
It All Starts with a Flame
Regardless of the brand – be it Traeger, Weber, or any other top-tier grill – every successful BBQ starts with that initial flame.
That’s where Starter King steps in.
All you need are a couple of small pieces. Position them amidst your charcoal. Light them up and let them do their magic. The beauty of Starter King lies in its simplicity and efficacy, making it a staple for professionals and novices alike. Less time lighting, more time cooking.
Why Starter King Stands Apart
Sustainability with Purpose: Made from reclaimed food-grade wax paper, it's a testament to what can be achieved when we think differently about 'waste.' Just like a good hunter utilizes every part of the deer - we see value in places others often overlook.
Uncompromised Performance: When it comes to fire starters for grills, BBQs, or cooking in general, Starter King's quality is evident. It lights rapidly, burns hot, and, most importantly, ensures that your competition-ready food remains untainted by any external odors or residues.
Born and Bred in Ohio: As a proud product of Northeast Ohio, Starter King captures the essence of local craftsmanship. Each fire starter is a nod to the region's spirit of innovation and commitment to quality.
Versatility: The efficacy of Starter King is not just restricted to one brand. Whether you’re using a Traeger, Weber, Big Green Egg, or a backyard spit – Starter King seamlessly integrates, ensuring a consistent and robust flame from the beginning.
Where to Buy Starter King
Starter King will be available in all 1,730 Lowe's stores in 2024! Also, you will find it in select Ace Hardware stores in NE Ohio in Spring 2024! Check out our current dealers here.
Until then, you can get Starter King right here. And if you’re in the Alliance, OH area – you can pick it up at the shop where it’s produced by checking “in-store pickup” at checkout.
