A Preview: The Bubba Keg

I got a new toy yesterday; The Bubba Keg. Great name for what looks like what is a great cooker. I don't call it a grill. I don't call it a smoker. It looks like it can handle both.

The Bubba Keg is the newest cooker to hit the market that is dominated by The Big Green Egg and Kamado. Instead of using ceramics like the Eggs and Kamado do, the Bubba Keg is constructed of fiberglass insulated double steel walls. It's a hefty beast at 235lbs.

This looks like it's gonna be fun. Full review of unpacking, assembling and cooking on the Bubba Keg on Monday.

I'm really looking forward to this weekend! I'm cooking!

Father's Day Recommendations

OK boys and girls, Sunday is Father's Day. Does dear old dad like to grill or barbecue? Still don't know what to get him? Well, I have a few recommendations for the outdoor cook.

• A Weber Charcoal Chimney Starter. It's only about $10 and will allow dad to light the fire without charcoal lighter. He'll notice a huge improvement in taste of his finished product.
• A year's subscription to The National BBQ News. This newsletter covers the barbecue circuit, has some great recipes and is one of my must reads.
  
• Paul Kirk's Championship Barbecue Sauces: 175 Make-Your-Own Sauces, Marinades, Dry Rubs, Wet Rubs, Mops, and Salsas. A cookbook? Yup a cookbook for Dad. This is one of my fall back books and I can't recommend it enough. It's so much more than a cookbook, it actually teaches you how to create your own recipes.
• Looking for a gas grill? Take a look at the Charbroil TEC Series. I truly believe you can't find a better gas grill for the price. I've written two reviews about the grill, which you can check out here and here.
• Looking for a charcoal grill? Take a look at the famous Weber Kettle. It's a classic and worth every penny. Be sure and buy Dad the larger 22 1/2" model. It's a much more versatile piece of equipment than the smaller version.
  
• Believe it or not, I'd be thrilled if my kids bought me some real charcoal or hard wood for cooking. The instant light stuff, well, it's another four letter word that can't be used on a family blog. The real stuff is cheaper and better. Don't know which charcoal to buy? Take a look at The Naked Whiz. He reviews and tests all the brands.
• If you're looking to really impress the old man and your pockets are deep, why not consider purchasing him A Big Green Egg, Primo or a Kamado? They are a unique Japanese inspired ceramic grill that can do everything from cold smoke to grill pizzas. Not too many Dads have one and he'll be the envy of the neighborhood.
  

And finally, just be good to Dad on Father's Day. He needs a break, even if he denies it.