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Is something on fire over there? Burnt the steaks? Looking for tips to serve moist delicious barbecue every time? Learn from the pro - Gary Parker's been grilling, smokin' and standing in front of a barbecue for a LONG time. Let's listen.

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Gary Parker, Pit Master

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Barbecue gets talked about like it’s just meat and smoke, but the best places are built on something deeper: lived experience, regional technique, and the discipline to stay focused when everyone asks for “just one more thing.” Jennifer Norrie sits down with pitmaster and owner Gary Parker to unpack why BBQ2U is proudly a Texas-style barbecue joint in Gig Harbor, and why that identity shapes every decision from the pit to the menu board. 

We get into the real story behind the lineup: why brisket is a must, how Gary’s time in the Carolinas changed the way he thinks about pork, and what whole hog cooking teaches you that a standard smoker never will. We also talk about the nuts and bolts of running a smokehouse in today’s economy, including the shift from fixed trays to selling meat by the pound, sourcing sausage when kitchen space is limited, and keeping the menu simple enough to execute perfectly every day. 

Then we hit the crowd favorites and the curveballs: turkey that started as a family request, jackfruit “vegan barbecue” that surprised everyone, and classic southern desserts like banana pudding. Gary also explains why BBQ2U sticks to traditional rubs and avoids a house sauce that’s “too spicy,” plus we share a timely reminder about catering for holiday parties and those January and February corporate kickoff lunches. If you care about authentic Texas barbecue, smoked brisket, pulled pork, and the craft behind a real smokehouse, you’ll want this one. 

If you enjoy the show, subscribe, share it with a fellow barbecue lover, and leave a quick review so more people can find us.

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Gary Parker, Pit Master

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I think Gary Parker is the only Pit Master that knows this much about the History and Culture of Barbecue. Who knew that meat over a hot fire was a critical part of the history of the United States - and was a central means of nutrition for many! Listen in to the story of barbecue and how it helped establish our great nation. 

#Barbecue #GaryParker 

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Gary Parker, Pit Master

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Where does our Pit Master Gary Parker, source the wood that creates the magical smoke for the meats BBQ2U serves? How do we source the other fresh menu ingredients? There are bound to be some good stories here. Listen in.

#FarmtoTable #BBQ2U 

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Gary Parker, Pit Master

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How can you balance the flavors in a marinade or sauce to avoid overpowering the natural taste of the meat? What are some common ingredients or flavor profiles found in rubs, and how do they enhance the meats flavor? All of this and MORE Friday at 4pm!

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Gary Parker, Pit Master

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This guy knows barbecue. I mean reallly knows barbecue. As an art, a craft, a cooking method and a means of science expressing itself. Listen if you want to know how to work with science to make delicious smoked meats every time! 

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Gary Parker, Pit Master

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Giving back to the community is a fundamental BBQ2U value. The restaurant gives back every week via "counter takeovers" where local non profits can gain 10% of the receipts donated. And Gary writes a lot of checks to schools, community events and endless great causes. Why does he do this and what is his perspective on small businesses giving back to the communites they serve? Listen in to find out! 

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Gary Parker, Pit Master

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How did Gary Parker get from the halls of big tech to the Marine Town of Gig Harbor, Washington - cooking up the best brisket in the county? Well, this podcast is about exactly that. Join us as we journey from Gary's youth in Austin, Texas to his busy philanthropy and restaurant owner life today! 

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Gary Parker, Pit Master

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Ever wonder what goes into the making of the perfect BBQ2U brisket?
 
Cook it low, and slow, and....what else do you need to know? Join Gary Parker, the BBQ2U Pitmaster as he discusses just these things.

And we will wrap up with BBQ brisket disasters and do some sleuthing on what might have gone wrong if your brisket taste and texture went, well, South. See you there!

#BBQ2U #BBQ #Barbeque #Brisket #HowtoCookBrisket

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Gary Parker, Pit Master

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Why does Gary Parker get up every morning and make sure the brisket is smokin', the store is clean and crisp and the TV tuned to the guests favorite channel? What drives Gary's motivation to serve the community he loves? Learn just that on this podcast where Gary discusses one of his favorite books - by author @SimonSinek. 

www.texasbbq2u.com

253-313-5656

Gary Parker, Pit Master