How to Become a Certified Texas Barbecue Judge
Being a Texas barbecue judge doesn't mean you have to live in Texas. It just means you are certified to judge Texas-style barbecue, which is characterized by low and slow heat. It is typically used on cuts of meat that would be too tough to eat if cooked any other way. The end result is judged by the same criteria as any other type of barbecue: does it taste good, is it tender, and does it look appetizing.
Barbecue associations embrace all styles of barbecue. And barbecue judge certifications emphasize the final result rather than the method for achieving that result.
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Instructions
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Select the barbecue association you want to be certified with. You can find lists of these local associations on Web sites such as the National BBQ Association (NBBQA) and the International Barbecue Cookers Association (IBCA). On the state level, the Texas Gulf Coast BBQ Cookers Association (TGCBCA) is highly regarded.
Another well-known organization that certifies judges is the Kansas City Barbecue Society (KCBS), which covers all types of barbecue.
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Register for a barbecue judging class. These are usually single sessions lasting a half-day. If you are preparing to judge a specific event, you might be able to find a specific class associated with that event. Local or regional associations frequently host or sponsor classes, so it's worthwhile to look up class schedules on local barbecue association Web sites.
Local associations can also provide discounted rates for the classes. For example, if you're a member of the New England Barbecue Society (NEBS) you might be able to get a discount for the KCBS class. You can also find a schedule of judge classes on the KCBS web site.
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Complete the barbecue judging class. The exact requirements vary depending on the specific certification, but most require that you simply take the class in order to receive your certification. The class consists of classroom study of the theory of barbecuing, followed by hands-on practice judging meat. In the classroom you learn about the how to judge meat on appearance, taste and tenderness. After that, you sample the barbecue and practice awarding points and deductions.
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Swear your barbecue judge oath, if required. The KCBS has an oath, though that's not the case with all organizations. The oath states that you will objectively and subjectively evaluate barbecue to the best of your ability.
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- Photo Credit barbecue image by reynald lassire from Fotolia.com
