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Getting started: Competition BBQ guide

Want to get started in competition BBQ, but not sure what’s needed? Here’s a handy guide and FAQ’s to get you started, and where in Europe you’re able to participate.

FAQ’s

What do I need to participate in a competition?

Typically, there are no barriers to entry from a culinary skill point. If you’re a trained chef, pitmaster or budding backyard enthusiast it does not matter. However usually, there are registration fees payable to the organiser to cover setup, prizes etc.

What can be won at these competitions?

Usually, prize money is split between the top contestants. These limits and amounts vary from competition to competition. The kudos of winning/placing in a competition, however, typically outweighs the monetary value.

Competition guide

  • When you arrive set up your camp, you will be there for at least 24 hours.

  • Once the cooks’ meeting has taken place, one person must remain within your cooking area at all times

  • Synchronise your watch with the competition clock at the cooks’ meeting

  • Do Not Smoke in your cooking area

  • Remember always wear disposable gloves every time you handle food

  • After the cooks’ meeting, trim and rub your meat

  • Smoke brisket and pork overnight

  • Get some sleep

  • Start smoking ribs and chicken early morning (rest pork & brisket wrapped in foil and a towel inside a cooler)

  • Prepare presentation boxes in advance of turn-in

  • Be sure not to miss the 10-minute turn-in window for each category

Item checklist

  • Aprons

  • Ash Bucket

  • Camping Stove

  • Awning/Tent

  • Barbeque Rub

  • Barbeque Sauce

  • Torch

  • Batteries

  • Bedding

  • Beer

  • Bleach

  • Brushes

  • Sun Cream

  • Charcoal

  • Plastic Cups

  • Dish pans

  • Dish rags

  • Washing Up Liquid

  • Duct tape

  • Dust masks

  • Fire Extinguisher

  • Heat Resistant Gloves

  • First Aid Kit

  • Foil

  • Food for meals

  • Ice

  • Cool Box

  • Juice

  • Knives

  • Chairs

  • Disinfecting Wipes

  • Lettuce

  • Lighter

  • Marinades

  • Kitchen Roll

  • Parsley

  • Pots and Pans

  • Rain Coats

  • Clingfilm

  • Kettle

  • Disposable Gloves

  • Smoker

  • Soap

  • Soft Drinks

  • Spatulas

  • Spray Surface

  • Cleaner

  • Sunglasses

  • Tablecloth

  • Thermometers

  • Tongs

  • Tools

  • Hand Towels

  • Bin Bags

  • Tea Towels

  • Drinking Water

  • Wood

  • Chopping Boards

  • 6′ Prep Table