There are barbecue grills, and then there are spectacular BBQ grills. It’s no secret that most people on the planet enjoy grilling for the flavors, the lifestyle, the entertainment factor and the convenience. Research shows that folks grill during cold weather events such as Thanksgiving, Christmas and the Superbowl.
These days, grilling is seeing close to record levels. Chew on this statistic for a moment: Eighty percent of all homeowners and 70% of all households across the country own at least a grill or smoker.
Have you ever considered the Santa Maria barbecue tradition? This one is the ultimate, by far.
Looking Back to Home, Home on the Range
More than 150 years ago, Santa Maria Valley ranchers established a way of cooking for cowboys rounding up the herds and putting in long hours of labor. Back then, large pits were dug up and filled with wood like red oak to get a fire going. Big slabs of prime-cut beef were skewered and slow-cooked over the burning red oak, producing a robust and delicious smoky flavor.
The sirloin and tri-tip were served with pinquito beans, salsa, bread and a green salad. The Santa Maria tradition has never died; in fact, the meal has been called one of the finest in the world by some culinary experts.
Replicating the Santa Maria Grilling Perfection
Several well-known restaurants in the Golden State specialize in this unique type of barbecue style, but not everyone can visit the Santa Maria Valley. However, you can still enjoy this fabulous tradition with family and friends at home by purchasing an amazing Santa Maria BBQ Grill.
The flexibility that comes with these grills is impressive such as having the option to use charcoal, hardwoods or lump coal. Think of the endless opportunities when you choose the Santa Maria grilling tradition. Whether it’s for your backyard, outdoor barbecue island, company or restaurant, these awesome grills are quality built to go on and on and on. These models can also accommodate small to large crowds for casual to formal events.
What Makes These Santa Maria Grills So Very Special?
The units are nothing like the basic ones found at big box stores. These grills’ unique design and construction recreate the famous Santa Maria Valley “vaquero cooking” of the 19th century. A grill made into the Santa Maria tradition contains a deep firebox with a height-adjustable grate system. Your wood or charcoal will burn directly under the grate. That way, your meats and vegetables receive that irresistible savory and smoky essence.
Using this type of unit with “live fire” is quite an enjoyable experience for you and your gathering. For instance, the single-crank feature enables you to achieve pinpoint accurate temperature control by adjusting the cooking grates. Also, these authentic grills are quite durable and can handle any tough weather scenarios out there and keep on working.
Seasoning With the Simplest Dry Rub, and “Voila!”
The exceptional flavors one can reach using the Santa Maria vaquero cooking principles come down to a few secret tips. The barbecued meats are at their best when you apply a dry rub of three kitchen cupboard ingredients. That’s all you need. Expert chefs combine two tablespoons of salt with one teaspoon of black pepper and 1 teaspoon of garlic salt.
Apply the dry rub evenly across the entire surface of the meat (top-block sirloin or tri-tip). Then, massage it gently into the meat until the rub covers the entire surface.
Here’s one way to prepare your grill at home. Industry pros recommend soaking about one to two cups of red oak chips in water for 45 minutes. While the chips are soaking, get your charcoals going on your grill.
If you’re looking to heighten the barbecue experience, take a page from the iconic Santa Maria Valley culture of its proud people. Entertaining and relaxing outdoors with family and friends has never “tasted better.” This BBQ style has stood the test of time most deliciously.
