Melissa Cookston, "Smokin' in the Boys' Room"

bboulier

Checked Melissa Cookston’s “Smokin in the Boys’ Room” (2014) out of the library recently.  Here are some observations, although I haven’t cooked anything from it yet.

1.  There are some  good recipes for rubs, sauces and injections.

2.  Many recipes for pork, chicken or beef look like they are definitely worth trying.

3.  She includes several examples of how she would cook differently for the home and for a competition (e.g., brisket).  Basically, she says that in a competition, one is looking for “one-bite flavor”.  At home, you are eating a much larger portion, so you would want a much less spicy version.  Her competition brisket has injections; her home version does not.  Her recipe for chicken thighs also shows how complex cooking is for competitions.  

Very interesting book.  It is probably better for someone with experience in smoking, as the directions are easier to follow if you have done some of the steps before.  Highly recommended.