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pitmaster Carey Bringle has some suggestions . The Nashville native has been competing in barbecue contests for more than 27 years and has the blue ribbons to prove it .

Bringle founded Peg Leg Porker in 2013 , which became one of the hottest barbecue joints in the country . The restaurant is known for its juicy , smoked-to-perfection pork ribs drenched with a spicy dry seasoning after being smoked .

Peg Leg Porker is named after Bringle himself and his greatest win : a cancer battle that he triumphed at the age of 17 . With his win , Bringle lost his leg , which led him to create a new name and only added more fire to his passion for success . In addition to the restaurant , a line of sauces and rubs , Peg Leg Porker includes a bourbon .

Bringle also the author of BBQ for Dummies . Here are a few of his tips for a successful barbecue at home .

BY MELISSA DOWLING

Americans love their barbecue . As of 2023 , more than 30 million Instagram tags related to barbecue have been recorded under the world ’ s most popular meal types , according to data from The Picky Eater .

A symbol of hospitality , barbecues bring people together for social gatherings and celebrations , and summer is the prime season for them .

What ’ s more , barbecue food is delicious ! How can you improve your barbecue game this summer ? Professional

Carey Bringle

BE PREPARED

When creating the menu , remember to be inclusive . Barbecue may be all about the meat , but keep in mind everyone ’ s dietary needs or restrictions before you finalize your lineup , Bringle says . Preparation is key : Have everything you think you will need for the cookout ready before you start , Bringle says . Do as much work ahead of time as you can . “ Prep any veggies or sides the night before so that you can easily have them ready for when your main dish is done .”

You ’ ll also want to make sure your grill is clean . “ There is nothing worse than going to cook and having to deal with a dirty grill or smoker ,” says Bringle . “ It is also good to go ahead and clean it right after a cook . This will help maintain the longevity of the grill or smoker .”

Consider what sides will pair well with your mains . For example , steak goes great with potatoes , green beans , asparagus , broccoli , Brussels sprouts , and cauliflower , Bringle says . Pork barbecue is a good match with greens , potato salad , baked beans , mac and cheese and cole slaw , while chicken works well with fried okra , french fries , mac and cheese , green beans , rice and salad , he adds .

What to drink with barbecue ? Beer , naturally , including a national brand such as Coors Light or Miller Lite as well as local options . Sangria , seltzers and wine are popular at barbecues , says Bringle . He suggests a standard red blend and a middle-of-the-road white for wines .

You ’ ll also want to have some bourbon ( local , if available , and stock ), vodka and gin . Don ’ t forget nonalcoholic options , and “ make sure that you have some staples for people who aren ’ t into craft drinks ,” Bringle says .

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