The Art of Southern Grilling: A Guide to Cookouts Like a Local Grilling like a Southerner is an art form that requires patience, practice, and a deep understanding of the region's unique culinary traditions.

The Art of Southern Grilling: A Guide to Cookouts Like a Local

Grilling like a Southerner is an art form that requires patience, practice, and a deep understanding of the region's unique culinary traditions. In Savannah, Georgia, where the sweet scent of wood smoke wafts through the historic district, locals gather around backyard grills and communal pits to share stories, laughter, and delicious meals with friends and family. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a novice griller, this guide will equip you with the essential techniques and insider knowledge to host your own unforgettable Southern-style cookout.

Choosing the Right Wood

When it comes to grilling in the South, the type of wood used can make all the difference. Local pitmasters swear by traditional woods like hickory, oak, and pecan, which impart a rich, smoky flavor to meats.  Keep in mind that different types of wood will produce distinct flavors and aromas, so don't be afraid to experiment and find the perfect pairing for your dish.

Mastering the Grill

A good grill is the heart of any successful cookout. In Savannah, you'll often find pitmasters using classic charcoal grills or even ancient brick ovens to achieve that perfect, slow-cooked flavor. To get started, make sure you've got a reliable heat source and a well-seasoned grill bed. For those new to grilling, consider starting with simpler recipes like burgers, hot dogs, or even traditional Southern sides like grilled okra or corn on the cob.

Essential Techniques

To truly grill like a Southerner, you'll need to master a few essential techniques:

• Low and Slow: This approach is all about cooking at low temperatures (around 225-250°F) for extended periods of time. It's perfect for tenderizing tougher cuts of meat or achieving that signature Southern fall-off-the-bone texture.
• Wood Chip Magic: Add wood chips to your grill or smoker to create a rich, complex flavor profile. Try using different types of woods or experimenting with combinations for unique results.
• Resting Time: Letting meats rest after cooking allows the juices to redistribute and the flavors to meld together. This is especially important when grilling large cuts of meat.

A Guide to Traditional Southern BBQ Joints

When in Savannah, be sure to visit some of the city's best BBQ joints for inspiration and sampling. Try:

• The Olde Pink House: Located in the heart of the historic district, this upscale eatery serves up traditional Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
• Bull Street Smokehouse: For authentic, old-school BBQ flavors, head to Bull Street Smokehouse, where pitmasters use traditional techniques to craft mouthwatering dishes.

Practical Info

• Hours: Vary by location; check individual websites for specific hours and scheduling.
• Fees: None listed; contact individual restaurants for more information.
• Location Hints: Both Olde Pink House and Bull Street Smokehouse are located in the heart of Savannah's historic district. Simply follow the scent of smoke to find them!