The Most Popular BBQ Styles Across the United States

Barbecue. It's a word that makes a lot of us happy, whether you're into a slow-smoked brisket, juicy pulled pork, or flame-grilled burgers. There's a style out there for everyone.

What a lot of people don't realize is that different parts of the country have their own distinct takes on it. Here's a quick tour of the most popular BBQ styles in the U.S., so you can hold your own at the next cookout and maybe plan a road trip around it.

Texas BBQ

Texas is known for big, bold flavors, and its barbecue is no exception. In the Lone Star State, beef is king, especially brisket, which gets slow-smoked for hours over oak or mesquite. Whether you go with a traditional BBQ sauce or eat your brisket "au jus," Texas barbecue delivers.

Carolina BBQ

The Carolinas are split on barbecue. North Carolina leans toward a vinegar-based sauce, while South Carolina favors a mustard-based one. Pork is the meat of choice in both, but the cut differs: North Carolinians often smoke the whole hog, while South Carolinians go for pulled pork shoulder.

Memphis BBQ

Memphis is famous for its dry-rub barbecue, where the meat gets seasoned with a blend of spices before a long, slow smoke. Ribs are the star here, with both baby back and spare ribs popular on the menu.

Kansas City BBQ

Kansas City takes an all-inclusive approach, where just about anything is fair game for the smoker. Ribs, brisket, and chicken are popular, but don't be surprised to see ham or sausage too. Kansas City is also known for its sweet and tangy sauce, a great finishing touch on just about any plate.

Keep your grill in shape

Now that you've got a feel for the regional styles, it's time to get cooking. And to keep your grill ready for the next round, here are some cleaning and maintenance tips.

Cleaning the inside and outside of your grill:

1. Preheat your grill to high heat for about 10 minutes to burn off any leftover food residue from your last cookout.

2. Use a wire brush to scrub the grates and remove any built-up food or grease.

3. Wipe down the interior with a damp cloth, including the firebox, lid, and sides.

4. Use a grill cleaner or degreaser on the exterior, avoiding any painted or coated areas.

A couple of ways to make it easier:

1. Use Kona Safe/Clean Grill Spray. Spray the inside and outside of your grill, let it sit a few minutes, then wipe clean with a damp cloth.

2. Use Kona Grill Mats to keep things clean and stop food from sticking. They're reusable, made from non-stick material, and dishwasher safe.

Keep up with these simple steps and your grill stays in good shape for the next cookout. Whatever you're into, Texas brisket, Carolina pulled pork, Memphis dry-rub ribs, or Kansas City's everything-on-the-grill approach, barbecue is one of those traditions that brings people together. So fire up the grill, grab a cold drink, and get cooking.