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View Full Version : Keep a Log!




Riva
10-02-2008, 06:49 PM
Most true BBQ lovers keep a precise log of every cook in order to document ingredients, length of cook, temps, spices, etc. If/when you change the slightest part of your recipe; you can then go back and change it or duplicate it, depending on the results. I am one of those people.

On the evening before the archery opener, I typically make a giant rib dinner for the entire camp. It's a big, annual event that all the guys look forward to. And, to be honest, I get a lot of really positive comments on the ribs. And, I always make a huge batch my "killer bake beans" recipe. I also get lots of positive comments on those but, not as much as the ribs.

The bake bean recipe calls for 1/2 cup of any brand bbq rub. I always use a brand that I purchase from Texas called, of all things,”Texas BBQ Rub". Well, fate would have it that I completely ran out of this rub just as I finished rubbing the ribs with it. So, it was down to the local grocery (15 miles away) where I simply purchased some "Emeril's Rib Rub" to use in the recipe.

Well, at dinner, it became crystal clear that the bake bean recipe had improved for the better--much better. Every guy at the table (10) enjoyed the ribs and said so. However; each guy, to a man, absolutely RAVED about the beans!! I mean some were almost gushing.

I was sitting there rolling my eyes knowing that the only thing I changed was the rib rub ingredient. Apparently, that one ingredient was enough to change a very good recipe to an apparent excellent recipe.

Fortunate for me, I knew that the only thing that was different was the rub and noted it in my log. This way, I can duplicate the recipe again and get the same results 99% of the time.




Firemedic
10-04-2008, 07:30 PM
I used to be one that would just mix things together, and never write it down. I do now for rubs, smoking times, and temps. The only thing that I never write down is my chili. Whatever I am in the mood for, i.e. sweet, smokey, spicy, hot, thats how I make it.