When you are a child, anything your parents do is considered normal. I remember my great uncle, a native from New Madrid, MO, placing what looked like the biggest hot dog I had ever seen on the grill. Even my father was taken back by what he had saw. "Uncle, what is that?" my dad asked. "Boy, that there is a pig tail!" my uncle said. After a tail had cooled off, my dad and I had shared one. The end was as crispy as a pig nose or snoot, and the other end was as flavorful and juicy as a rib. I was no stranger to a snoot or ribs, so the fusion was pure swine heaven. From that day forward, my …

I've been to many barbecue functions and seen a nice rack of ribs taken off the grill with several pieces left on the grill. Some might wonder what happens to that little chunk of meat that was left to sizzle. Unfortunately, it may take until the next event to find out. To avoid this nastiness, be sure to clean your grill regularly.The first thing you need to clean your grill is the grill brush. Without it, you might spend the whole day scrapping the gunk off of the grill rack with your fingernail. Another item to keep by your side will be drinking water, the best defense against the summer …

There are many ways to fail at starting your barbecue grill. Some have trouble starting it, while others cannot control the fire that's been created. Charcoal lighting is more complex than combining lighter fluid, coals and a match. From the temperature to the colors of coals, your grill needs to be supervised at all times.  Safety is the most important component of all. Keep smoke and soot away from your eyes and you'll have a great grilling experience.  Plus, have water on hand to control your fire and keep you hydrated in the blazing heat.  When starting your grill, don't panic. Just log …