Top 47 Slang For Bbq – Meaning & Usage

Barbecues, a quintessential part of summer, bring people together for good food, good company, and good times. But did you know that there’s a whole world of slang for BBQ that can take your grilling game to the next level? From regional variations to secret techniques, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your newfound BBQ knowledge as we take you on a flavorful journey through the top slang for BBQ.

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A ‘cue expert, short for barbecue expert, is someone who has extensive knowledge and experience in the art of barbecue. They are skilled in various techniques and flavors associated with barbecue.

For example, at a barbecue competition, a judge might be referred to as a ‘cue expert.
A person sharing barbecue tips and tricks might identify themselves as a ‘cue expert.
In a discussion about barbecue styles, someone might say, “I consider myself a ‘cue expert when it comes to Texas-style barbecue.”

16. Sauce-stained shirts

This term refers to people who enjoy BBQ so much that they end up with sauce stains on their shirts. It’s a lighthearted way to describe someone who really indulges in their BBQ.

For example, “After that BBQ feast, we all had sauce-stained shirts.”
A BBQ lover might proudly declare, “I wear my sauce-stained shirts as a badge of honor.”
Someone might jokingly say, “You know it was a good BBQ when everyone leaves with sauce-stained shirts.”

17. Smoker

A smoker is a type of BBQ grill or pit specifically designed for slow-cooking meat at a low temperature over a long period of time. It’s used to infuse the meat with smoky flavors and create tender, juicy results.

For instance, “He spent all day tending to the smoker to prepare the perfect ribs.”
A BBQ enthusiast might say, “Investing in a good smoker is the key to achieving delicious BBQ.”
Someone might ask, “Do you prefer using a smoker or a regular grill for BBQ?”

18. Ribs

Ribs are a popular BBQ dish made from pork or beef ribs. They are often slow-cooked and basted with BBQ sauce to achieve a tender and flavorful result.

For example, “I can’t resist a plate of juicy BBQ ribs.”
A BBQ lover might proclaim, “The best part of any BBQ is the ribs.”
Someone might ask, “Do you prefer baby back ribs or spare ribs?”

19. Brisket

Brisket is a cut of beef that is often slow-cooked to achieve a tender and flavorful result. It is a staple of BBQ and is typically seasoned with a dry rub or marinated before cooking.

For instance, “The smoked brisket at this BBQ joint is to die for.”
A BBQ enthusiast might say, “You can’t have a proper BBQ without some delicious brisket.”
Someone might ask, “Do you prefer sliced brisket or chopped brisket?”

20. Pulled pork

Pulled pork is a dish made from slow-cooked pork shoulder or pork butt that is shredded or “pulled” apart. It is often seasoned with a BBQ rub or sauce and is a popular choice for sandwiches or tacos.

For example, “The pulled pork at this BBQ spot is incredibly tender and flavorful.”
A BBQ lover might say, “I could eat pulled pork sandwiches every day.”
Someone might ask, “Do you prefer your pulled pork with or without BBQ sauce?”

21. Sauce

Sauce refers to a flavored liquid or semi-solid mixture that is used to enhance the flavor of BBQ. It can be sweet, tangy, spicy, or a combination of flavors.

For example, “I love to smother my ribs in barbecue sauce.”
A BBQ enthusiast might say, “The secret to great BBQ is in the sauce.”
Someone might ask, “Do you prefer a vinegar-based sauce or a tomato-based sauce?”

22. Rub

A rub is a mixture of spices, herbs, and other seasonings that is applied to the surface of the meat before cooking. It adds flavor and helps create a delicious crust on the BBQ.

For instance, “I like to rub my brisket with a blend of salt, pepper, and paprika.”
A BBQ chef might say, “The key to a good rub is finding the right balance of flavors.”
Someone might ask, “What’s your favorite rub recipe for chicken?”

23. Smoke ring

The smoke ring is a pink-colored ring that forms around the edge of the meat when it is cooked using low and slow methods with wood smoke. It is a sign of a well-cooked BBQ.

For example, “Look at that beautiful smoke ring on that brisket.”
A BBQ enthusiast might say, “The smoke ring is a mark of true BBQ mastery.”
Someone might ask, “How do you achieve a nice smoke ring on your ribs?”

24. Pit

A pit refers to a cooking area specifically designed for BBQ. It can be a hole in the ground, a metal container, or a dedicated BBQ smoker.

For instance, “We’re having a BBQ party at Joe’s pit this weekend.”
A BBQ chef might say, “The pit is where the magic happens.”
Someone might ask, “What’s the best type of pit for smoking ribs?”

25. Grill

A grill is a cooking apparatus that uses direct heat from a source such as charcoal, gas, or wood to cook food. It is commonly used for grilling burgers, steaks, and other BBQ favorites.

For example, “Let’s fire up the grill and cook some hot dogs.”
A BBQ enthusiast might say, “I love the smoky flavor that comes from grilling over charcoal.”
Someone might ask, “Gas grill or charcoal grill – which do you prefer?”

26. Barbecue joint

A barbecue joint is a restaurant or eatery that specializes in serving barbecue dishes. It is a place where people can go to enjoy various types of smoked and grilled meats.

For example, “Let’s go to the barbecue joint down the street for some delicious ribs.”
A person might recommend, “If you’re in the mood for barbecue, you have to try the new joint in town.”
Another might say, “I’m craving some pulled pork. Let’s head to the barbecue joint for lunch.”

27. BBQ sauce

BBQ sauce is a type of sauce that is used to flavor and enhance the taste of barbecue dishes. It is typically made with a combination of ingredients such as tomatoes, vinegar, sugar, and various spices.

For instance, “I love slathering my ribs with BBQ sauce before grilling them.”
A person might ask, “Do you prefer a sweet or spicy BBQ sauce?”
Another might say, “The secret to a good barbecue is a quality homemade BBQ sauce.”

28. Cookout

A cookout is an outdoor social gathering where food is cooked on a grill or barbecue. It is a casual and relaxed event where people come together to enjoy good food and company.

For example, “We’re having a cookout in the backyard this weekend. You should come.”
A person might say, “I love summer cookouts with burgers, hot dogs, and corn on the cob.”
Another might ask, “Who’s bringing the potato salad to the cookout?”

29. Low and slow

Low and slow is a cooking method that involves slow cooking food at a low temperature over a longer period of time. This method is commonly used in barbecue to achieve tender and flavorful results.

For instance, “When smoking a brisket, it’s important to cook it low and slow.”
A person might say, “The key to great barbecue is to take your time and cook it low and slow.”
Another might recommend, “If you want fall-off-the-bone ribs, cook them low and slow.”

30. Q

Q is an abbreviation for barbecue. It is commonly used in informal and casual settings, especially when referring to the act of grilling or smoking meat.

For example, “Let’s fire up the grill and have a Q in the backyard.”
A person might say, “I’m in the mood for some good Q. Where should we go?”
Another might ask, “Are you a fan of Carolina-style Q or Texas-style Q?”

31. Grillin’

This term refers to the act of cooking food on a grill, typically outdoors. It is commonly used to describe the process of cooking meat, vegetables, or other foods over an open flame or hot coals.

For example, “I love grillin’ burgers and hot dogs during the summer.”
A BBQ enthusiast might say, “I’m always up for some grillin’ and chillin’ with friends.”
In a recipe discussion, someone might ask, “What’s your secret for perfectly grillin’ chicken?”

32. Smokin’

This slang term is used to describe the process of cooking food using smoke from burning wood or charcoal. It is often associated with slow-cooking methods, such as smoking ribs, brisket, or pulled pork.

For instance, “I’m planning to spend the weekend smokin’ a whole pork shoulder.”
A BBQ lover might say, “The smokin’ process adds a delicious smoky flavor to the meat.”
In a conversation about BBQ techniques, someone might ask, “Do you prefer grilling or smokin’ your ribs?”

This term is a shortened version of the word “barbecuing.” It is commonly used to describe the act of cooking food on a barbecue grill, often outdoors.

For instance, “I’ll be BBQin’ some steaks for dinner tonight.”
A BBQ enthusiast might say, “Nothing beats the aroma of BBQin’ on a sunny day.”
In a conversation about BBQ techniques, someone might ask, “What’s your secret for perfectly BBQin’ ribs?”

35. Barby

This slang term is a shortened version of the word “barbecue.” It is often used informally or in casual conversations to refer to the act of grilling or smoking food.

For example, “Let’s have a barby in the backyard this weekend.”
Someone might ask, “Are you in the mood for some barby chicken or barby ribs?”
In a recipe exchange, a person might say, “I’ve got a great barby sauce recipe to share.”

36. Bar-B-Que

This term is a shortened version of “barbecue” and is often used to refer to the cooking method or the food itself. It can also be used as a verb to describe the act of grilling or smoking meat.

For example, “Let’s have a Bar-B-Que this weekend!”
A person might say, “I love the smoky flavor of Bar-B-Que ribs.”
In a recipe, you might see instructions like, “Bar-B-Que the chicken for 30 minutes on each side.”

37. Grillmaster

This term refers to someone who is skilled and knowledgeable in the art of grilling. A Grillmaster is often the person in charge of cooking the food at a barbecue or outdoor cooking event.

For example, “John is the Grillmaster at our family gatherings.”
A person might say, “I’m still learning, but I hope to become a Grillmaster someday.”
At a barbecue competition, the judges might ask, “Who’s the Grillmaster behind this delicious steak?”

38. BBQ Pit

A BBQ Pit is a designated area or structure where the grilling or smoking of meat takes place. It can refer to a simple backyard grill or a more elaborate setup, such as a brick pit or a dedicated smoker.

For instance, “Let’s gather around the BBQ Pit and start cooking.”
A person might say, “I spent the whole day tending to the BBQ Pit and slow-cooking a pork shoulder.”
In a recipe, you might see instructions like, “Place the marinated chicken on the BBQ Pit and cook for 45 minutes.”

39. Ribfest

A Ribfest is a festival or event that celebrates the love of ribs and barbecue. It often features various vendors or teams competing to cook the best ribs, along with live music, entertainment, and activities.

For example, “Are you going to the Ribfest this year? They have the best ribs in town!”
Friends might say, “Let’s meet up at the Ribfest and try ribs from different vendors.”
A person might post on social media, “Had an amazing time at the Ribfest. The ribs were finger-licking good!”

40. BBQ Joint

This term refers to a restaurant or establishment that specializes in serving barbecue. It is a popular spot for barbecue lovers to indulge in delicious smoked meats and other barbecue dishes.

For example, “Let’s go to that new BBQ joint in town, I heard their ribs are amazing.”
A person might recommend a BBQ joint by saying, “You have to try the pulled pork sandwich at this BBQ joint, it’s out of this world.”
Another person might ask, “Do you know any good BBQ joints around here? I’m craving some ribs.”

41. Barbecue Sauce

This is a sauce used to enhance the flavor of grilled or smoked meats. It is typically sweet, tangy, and sometimes spicy. Barbecue sauce is often applied to meats during the cooking process or served as a condiment.

For instance, “I love slathering my ribs with barbecue sauce before putting them on the grill.”
A person might say, “This barbecue sauce has the perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness.”
Another person might comment, “I can’t imagine eating barbecue without a side of barbecue sauce.”

42. BBQ Ribs

This term refers to ribs that have been cooked using barbecue techniques, such as smoking or grilling. BBQ ribs are often seasoned with dry rubs or marinated in barbecue sauce to enhance their flavor.

For example, “These BBQ ribs are so tender, they fall off the bone.”
A person might say, “I’m craving some BBQ ribs, let’s fire up the grill.”
Another person might ask, “Do you prefer baby back ribs or spare ribs for BBQ?”

43. Spareribs

Spareribs are a type of pork rib that comes from the belly of the pig, closer to the breastbone. They are typically larger and meatier than baby back ribs. Spareribs can be cooked using various methods, including grilling, smoking, or braising.

For instance, “I prefer the meatiness of spareribs over baby back ribs.”
A person might say, “These spareribs are so flavorful, the fat adds a lot of richness.”
Another person might comment, “I’m going to marinate these spareribs overnight before grilling them for dinner.”

44. BBQ rub

A BBQ rub is a mixture of spices and herbs that is used to season meats before they are cooked. It is typically applied to the meat’s surface and allowed to sit for a period of time to enhance flavor. BBQ rubs can be either dry or wet.

For example, “I’m going to rub this BBQ rub all over the chicken before grilling it.”
A person might say, “This BBQ rub has the perfect blend of smoky and spicy flavors.”
Another person might comment, “I like to make my own BBQ rub using a combination of paprika, brown sugar, and garlic powder.”

45. BBQ competition

A BBQ competition is an event where pitmasters and grillmasters showcase their skills in cooking barbecue. Competitors prepare various types of meat and barbecue dishes for a chance to win prizes and recognition.

For example, “I’m competing in a BBQ competition this weekend. I hope my ribs impress the judges.”
A BBQ enthusiast might say, “Attending a BBQ competition is a great way to taste different styles of barbecue.”
A judge at a BBQ competition might comment, “I’m looking for a perfect balance of smoke, tenderness, and flavor in each entry.”

46. BBQ platter

A BBQ platter refers to a large serving of barbecue meat and sides. It typically includes a variety of smoked or grilled meats such as ribs, brisket, pulled pork, or chicken, along with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread.

For instance, “I ordered a BBQ platter and couldn’t finish it all. The portions were huge.”
A restaurant might advertise, “Our BBQ platter features a generous portion of tender meats and flavorful sides.”
A group of friends might share a BBQ platter and say, “Let’s dig into this delicious meat extravaganza!”

47. BBQ feast

A BBQ feast refers to a large gathering where a variety of barbecue dishes are served, often in a casual and festive atmosphere. It involves cooking and enjoying a wide range of grilled or smoked meats, along with sides, sauces, and beverages.

For example, “We’re having a BBQ feast this weekend. Bring your appetite and your favorite side dish!”
A family might celebrate a special occasion with a BBQ feast and say, “Nothing beats a backyard BBQ feast with loved ones.”
Friends might organize a potluck BBQ feast and exclaim, “Let’s fire up the grill and have a day of grillin’ and chillin’!”

15. ‘Cue expert