By Heather Richards
Get a barbecue as big as the state of Texas.
Barbecue in the state of Texas means meat smoked over low temperatures for a long period of time. Historically, meat was cooked in large pits dug out of the ground over slow burning hardwoods. This has evolved into large brick pits or enclosed smokers, but the meat is still cooked slowly using hardwoods as a flavor element. The most commonly barbecued meats are pork ribs, brisket and half or whole chickens. There are many restaurants throughout Texas that specialize in barbecue.
The Salt Lick
Popular since its opening in 1967, The Salt Lick is locally owned and operated. Meat is seared and then slow cooked on a large smoke pit fed with live oak. Pork ribs, sausage and chicken are available; however, the brisket is the most popular meat on the menu. Side dishes include cole slaw, potato salad, beans, pickles and onions. Meals are served family style on oversized picnic tables in a rustic setting. No alcohol is served, but guests are allowed to bring their own. Payment can only be made in cash. Events can be held at the three meeting facilities on the restaurant's premises.
The Salt Lick
18300 FM 1826
Driftwood, TX 78619
(512) 858-4959
Saltlickbbq.com
The County Line Bar-B-Q
Located in a pastoral setting in Houston, The County Line serves meats that have been smoked for 12 to 18 hours each day. In addition to the usual brisket, pork ribs, sausage and chicken; turkey breast, beef ribs and pulled pork are also served. Potato salad, cole slaw and beans are served as side dishes. All you can eat meals are available with a choice of three, five or seven meats, all side dishes and bread. Images and articles from Texas history fill the walls. Alcoholic beverages are not available. Cash and credit cards are accepted. Catering is available for on- or off-site events.
The County Line Bar-B-Q
13850 Cutten Rd
Houston, TX 77069
(281) 537-2454
Countylinehouston.com
The Pit
The Pit is a family-run restaurant serving large portions of smoked meat at bargain prices. Meat is smoked using oak and a light mesquite flavoring. Sandwiches, dinners and meat by the pound are available. Combination dinners with choice of two, three or four smoked meats are served with sides of potato salad, beans or cole slaw and bread. Daily specials are also available. Meals are served in a basic restaurant. No alcohol is served.
The Pit
2427 Williams Dr
Georgetown, TX 78628
(512) 930-2333
Thepitbbq.com
Resources
About the Author:
Heather Richards is a freelance web writer in Rhode Island. Richards has managed non-profits serving senior citizens and individuals with developmental disabilities for 12 years. She holds a Bachelors of Science degree in Public Administration from UNC Pembroke.
Photo Credits:
texas wild pigs image by sally from
Fotolia.com
