ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Regional variations of barbecue

Okay kiddo, do you know what barbecue is? It's when people cook meat on a grill outside, sometimes with special sauces or seasonings. But did you know that different parts of the world have their own special way of making barbecue? Let's talk about some of them!

First, there's the Southern style of barbecue. This is from the southern part of the United States, like Texas or Alabama. They use big cuts of meat, like brisket or pork shoulder, and cook them slowly for hours over wood or charcoal. They also use a special rub of spices to flavor the meat, and often serve it with a tomato-based sauce.

Next, there's Kansas City-style barbecue. This is from the Midwest of the United States. They use a mixture of meats, like pork ribs or beef brisket, and cook them over wood or charcoal too. But they also add a sweet and tangy sauce made with molasses and tomato sauce.

Then, there's the Carolina-style of barbecue. This is from the eastern part of the United States, like North and South Carolina. They use pork, but cook it over low heat for a long time in a pit or smoker. They also use a vinegar-based sauce with spices like chili pepper and black pepper.

Finally, there's the Korean-style of barbecue. This is from Korea, where they cook meat like beef or pork on a grill at the table while you eat. They season the meat with a mixture of soy sauce, sugar, sesame oil, and garlic. They also serve it with vegetables like lettuce and onions to wrap the meat in.

So you see, barbecue can be different depending on where you are in the world. But no matter what style you try, it's always tasty and fun to eat with family and friends!