Dive into the delicious world of barbecue, exploring its origins, cultural significance, and the science behind perfectly cooked meat. The word "barbecue" refers to both a social gathering and a slow-cooking method over indirect heat. For those wondering, both "barbecue" and "barbeque" are considered correct and acceptable spellings. The word is believed to have originated from the Taíno word "barabicu" and adopted by Spanish explorers.

Fire-based communal cooking dates back 2 million years, highlighting humanity's ancient connection to preparing food with heat. Learn about the longest BBQ marathon, an incredible 80-hour feat in Germany, and why Kansas City, Missouri, is dubbed the "Barbecue Capital of the World" with over 100 BBQ restaurants. Explore how barbecue played a crucial role in meat preservation before modern refrigeration, with smoking extending meat's edibility for weeks or months. Finally, understand the science behind a smoked brisket's 50% weight loss during cooking, a process essential for its tender texture.

Want to learn more? Head over to my website www.funfactsdailypod.com and be sure to listen to my other podcasts Who ARTed: Weekly Art History for All Ages or Art Smart. For family fun, check out my son's podcast Rainbow Puppy Science Lab

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