Ep 8. BBQ Spare Ribs
- September 30, 2007
- 21 min
In season 2 episode 8 of Throwdown with Bobby Flay, the renowned chef enters the world of BBQ spare ribs. Flay takes on two expert pitmasters, challenging them to a cook-off in hopes of proving that his own recipe reigns supreme.
Flay's first competitor is Craig Kimmel, owner of Smokin' Q BBQ in N.J. Kimmel has been perfecting his BBQ skills for 26 years and he is prepared to put Flay to the test. Kimmel's signature dish for the throwdown is a classic rack of spare ribs, rubbed with his own blend of spices and slow-cooked for hours until they're fall-off-the-bone tender.
Flay's second competitor is Sterling "Big Poppa" Ball, owner of Big Poppa Smokers in California. Ball has become a BBQ legend in his own right, having won numerous competitions across the country. For the throwdown, Ball is cooking up a rack of St. Louis-style spare ribs, seasoned with his own rub and finished off with a tangy glaze.
Flay is no slouch in the BBQ department either, having grown up grilling with his grandfather in New York City. For the throwdown, Flay has created his own unique take on spare ribs, using a spicy dry rub and a homemade tomato-based sauce with a hint of bourbon.
The judges for the throwdown are three BBQ enthusiasts, including former NFL player Tiki Barber. Each judge will evaluate the ribs based on appearance, taste, and texture.
As the cook-off begins, tensions run high as the smoke billows out of the pit and the contestants get to work. Flay is confident in his recipe, but the competition is stiff. Kimmel's ribs are perfectly seasoned and juicy, while Ball's are a master class in BBQ technique.
Flay's own ribs turn out beautifully, with the spicy rub and sweet sauce combining to make for a flavor explosion in the mouth. The judges have a tough time deciding which ribs are the best, with all three competitors putting in a strong showing.
In the end, the winner of the throwdown is a surprise, as one of the pitmasters pulls off an upset victory over Flay. The episode concludes with Flay reflecting on the fierce competition and vowing to come back stronger in the next throwdown.
Overall, season 2 episode 8 of Throwdown with Bobby Flay is a must-watch for any BBQ enthusiast or food lover. The tension, excitement, and mouth-watering aromas make for a thrilling hour of television, and the insights into the world of BBQ are sure to leave viewers hungry for more.