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America: land of the free, and home to more BBQ regions that you can click your tongs at. We are many, we are strong, and we are proud. To get a true sense of the rich tapestry of BBQ culture in the U.S. of A., we need to highlight and give proper representation to the many different BBQ regionalities that make up our fair nation. First up in this ongoing series, we examine the rich BBQ traditions of Kansas City.
As famous as it is for its contributions to jazz and blues, Kansas City’s reputation is nothing short of infamous when it comes to its barbecue. In fact, Kansas City BBQ is so famous that you’re already likely a fan, even if you haven’t realized it.
As one of the most recognized BBQ regions in the U.S.A., it’s worth the time to take a closer look at this regional specialty and what makes it so special.
Kansas City BBQ: The Sauce
There is no barbecue sauce as distinctive as the one associated with Kansas City. Thick, sweet, and syrupy, the Kansas City variety is probably what first comes to mind when thinking about BBQ sauce for many people.
Kansas City sauce gets its unique characteristics from its special selection of ingredients, chief among which include brown sugar and molasses. Techniques such as grilling over low heat and adding it at the end help these sugary elements avoid caramelization, thereby enriching its select flavors.
Kansas City sauce gets its unique characteristics from its special selection of ingredients, chief among which include brown sugar and molasses. Techniques such as grilling over low heat and adding it at the end help these sugary elements avoid caramelization, thereby enriching its select flavors.
But that’s not all. Kansas City barbecue sauce shows a wide depth of other ingredients. These include crushed tomatoes, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and ground mustard. To conclude, Kansas City sauce is rich, flavorful, and – most of all – memorable.
Kansas City BBQ: The Meats
While its sauce is very distinctive, this kind of barbecue is less restrictive when it comes to its meat. Unlike the specializations of Texas (beef) or Memphis (pork), this regionalization is made from beef, pork, chicken, sausage, or even turkey.
When it comes to its specialties, Kansas City barbecue is best known for its ribs, pulled pork, and brisket. What’s more, the region is famous for its burnt ends. These fatty, flavorful pieces of meat are cut from the pointed end of a smoked brisket. These unique portions serve as meaty morsels that offer a pleasing caramelized crunch. You’ll find they are great to use as ingredients in other dishes.
Choose hickory to get that authentic Kansas City flavor for your smoker. Also, try a less spicy dry rub to make for a more harmonious sauce matchup.
Choose hickory to get that authentic Kansas City flavor for your smoker. Also, try a less spicy dry rub to make for a more harmonious sauce matchup.
Kansas City BBQ: The Sides
While its sauce gets all the attention, Kansas City BBQ offers so much more. To properly complement its distinctive taste, this type of barbecue is best matched with its traditional side dishes. These include baked mac & cheese, chilled potato salad, coleslaw, collards, fried okra, and other soul food staples.
Out of these, a special mention needs to be made for baked beans. This Kansas City-styled side dish emulates its matching sauce by incorporating molasses as an ingredient, giving it a flavor that provides light touches of spiciness, tanginess, and a little smokiness. What’s more, these sweet-barbecue-sauced navy beans are often made with burnt ends and bacon to provide added touches of BBQ.
To wash it all down, don’t forget to drink Big Red, the soda that belongs to this geographical region. With all of these side dishes and the right beverage, you’re all set to enjoy a real Kansas City barbecue experience.
Are you looking to make Kansas City-style BBQ? Use the ThermoPro TempSpike Truly Wireless Meat Thermometer and be able to monitor your smoker from up to 500′ away!
