Craving some mouth-watering BBQ this Memorial Day weekend? Look no further than Uncle John’s BBQ in Homewood, where they serve up delicious smoked rib tips and hotlinks. In a video by ABC 7 Chicago, Steve Newlin explores the barbecue scene in Chicago and finds that while the city may be divided when it comes to barbecue preferences (brisket and pulled pork on the north side, rib tips and hot links on the south side), Uncle John’s BBQ stands out as a must-try destination. The family behind Uncle John’s carries on the rich tradition of South Side barbecue, with Guerry Kenna brugge senior skillfully working an aquarium-style smoker to perfection. The rib tips reveal a perfect smoke ring, while the hot links are crispy and flavorful. And let’s not forget the sauce – poured over everything, it adds just the right amount of sweet and heat. Whether you’re a fan of smoky meat or love to dip, Uncle John’s BBQ is a definite must-visit for barbecue enthusiasts.
Memorial Day weekend and barbecue
Memorial Day weekend is a time to kick off the summer season and enjoy the great outdoors. And what better way to celebrate than with a delicious barbecue? Whether you’re headed to a picnic or hosting your own backyard cookout, barbecue is a must-have for this holiday weekend. In Chicago, barbecue preferences are split between the north side, where brisket and pulled pork are popular, and the south side, where rib tips and hot links reign supreme. This weekend, we’ll be exploring both sides of the city’s barbecue scene, beginning with a visit to Uncle John’s BBQ in Homewood.
Barbecue preferences in Chicago
Chicago is a city known for its diverse and vibrant food scene, and barbecue is no exception. When it comes to barbecue, the city is divided into two camps: those who prefer the smoky flavors of brisket and pulled pork on the north side, and those who crave the tender and flavorful rib tips and hot links on the south side. This division reflects the city’s diverse culinary traditions and the different cultural influences that have shaped Chicago’s food culture.
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Introduction to Uncle John’s BBQ in Homewood
Located in Homewood, a suburb on the south side of Chicago, Uncle John’s BBQ is a local institution known for its mouthwatering smoked rib tips and hot links. This family-owned and operated barbecue joint has been serving up delicious, authentic barbecue for over three decades, carrying on a proud South Side tradition. The small establishment, nestled in a tiny home strip mall next to a gas station, may not look like much from the outside, but the real magic happens inside their kitchen.
The importance of pitmasters at Uncle John’s BBQ
At Uncle John’s BBQ, the key to their flavorful and tender barbecue lies in the hands of their skilled pitmasters. Guerry Kenna brugge senior, the head pitmaster, works his aquarium-style smoker like a virtuoso plays a violin. These massive clear-sighted smokers allow pitmasters to place the beef and pork directly over the flame, infusing them with the rich smoky flavors that are characteristic of great barbecue.
The art of pitmastering is not something that can be learned in a classroom. It requires hands-on experience, an intuitive understanding of time and temperature, and a keen attention to detail. Guerry Kenna brugge senior learned the craft from his mentor, Mack Severe, the original Uncle John, and has since honed his skills to become a master of his trade. His dedication and expertise are evident in every bite of Uncle John’s BBQ.
The key to perfect smoked rib tips
One of the signature dishes at Uncle John’s BBQ is their smoked rib tips. These succulent and flavorful bite-sized pieces of meat are the bread and butter of their business. To achieve the perfect rib tips, the pitmasters at Uncle John’s rely on a combination of time, temperature, and instinct.
Smoking rib tips is a meticulous process that requires constant monitoring. The pitmasters must carefully watch the time and temperature to ensure that the meat is cooked just right. Overcooking can result in brittle and hard rib tips, while undercooking can lead to chewy and tough meat. Achieving the perfect balance is a skill that comes with experience and a keen sense of intuition.
When the rib tips are done, they reveal a beautiful smoke ring, a sign of a pitmaster who has paid close attention to every detail. This smoke ring is not just a visual delight but also an indication of the depth of flavor that awaits.
The process of smoking hot links
Another crowd favorite at Uncle John’s BBQ is their hot links. These spicy and flavorful sausages are the perfect accompaniment to any barbecue feast. The hot links served at Uncle John’s are made by a local packing company and then smoked on the upper tier of their smoker before being finished in the fryer to crisp up the outside.
The smoking process adds a smoky depth to the hot links, while the frying step ensures a perfectly crispy and flavorful outer layer. The combination of smoky, spicy, and crispy makes these hot links irresistible to barbecue enthusiasts.
Uncle John’s BBQ’s signature sauce
No barbecue experience is complete without a delicious sauce to accompany the meats. Uncle John’s BBQ is known for their signature sauce, a perfect blend of sweet and heat that complements their smoked meats beautifully. The sauce is poured over everything, including the French fries beneath it, creating a flavorful and messy delight.
While most customers at Uncle John’s love the sauce and can’t get enough of it, there are also those who prefer to enjoy the flavor of the meat and smoke without being overwhelmed by the sauce. These connoisseurs, known as “dippers,” prefer to have the sauce on the side and dip their meats in it as they go along.
Customer preferences at Uncle John’s BBQ
Uncle John’s BBQ has a loyal customer base that keeps coming back for their delicious and authentic barbecue. While some customers enjoy smothering their meats in sauce, others prefer a more minimalistic approach, allowing the natural flavors of the meat and smoke to shine.
The restaurant also offers a range of sauces, from mild to hot, to cater to different tastes. Whether you’re a fan of the classic smoky-sweet flavor or prefer a spicy kick, there’s a sauce that will satisfy your barbecue cravings.
Comparison to the original Uncle John’s BBQ
While Uncle John’s BBQ in Homewood carries on the legacy and traditions of the original Uncle John’s, there have been some changes over the years. The original location, which was either on 63rd or 69th street (memory fails), was a beloved spot that many still fondly remember. The new location in Homewood has managed to recreate the same incredible flavors and quality that made the original Uncle John’s a staple in the community.
The commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and passion for preserving the South Side barbecue tradition are evident in every dish served at Uncle John’s BBQ. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, you’re guaranteed a mouthwatering and unforgettable barbecue experience.
Conclusion
This Memorial Day weekend, as you fire up your own grill or visit a local barbecue joint, take a moment to appreciate the rich culinary traditions that make Chicago’s barbecue scene so unique. Whether you prefer the smoky flavors of the north side or the savory delights of the south side, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Uncle John’s BBQ in Homewood is a shining example of the passion and skill that goes into creating great barbecue. From their mouthwatering smoked rib tips to their perfectly crispy hot links, every dish is a labor of love. So, the next time you’re craving authentic and delicious barbecue, head to Uncle John’s BBQ and taste the South Side tradition for yourself.