Tennessee’s barbecue scene is a vibrant part of its culinary identity, offering a plethora of mouth-watering dishes that are a testament to the state’s rich tradition of smoked meats and southern comfort food. Sevierville, a charming city nestled in the Smoky Mountains, is not only the birthplace of Dolly Parton but also a hub for some of the most delectable BBQ offerings in the state. With a landscape as diverse as its barbecue flavors, Sevierville and the surrounding areas offer a culinary journey that BBQ enthusiasts dream of.
Whether you’re a local or a traveler eager to taste the essence of Tennessee BBQ, the variety and depth of flavors found in these dishes are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the eight must-have BBQ dishes in Tennessee that offer a true taste of the state’s barbecue culture.
1. Hawg Dawg
The Hawg Dawg is a playful yet delicious innovation in Tennessee BBQ, showcasing the state’s love for combining traditional barbecue elements in new and exciting ways. At its core, the Hawg Dawg is a celebration of flavor and texture, starting with a juicy, grilled hot dog that serves as the base for a heap of tender, smoked pulled pork. This fusion of meats provides a delightful contrast: the snap of the hot dog against the soft, succulent pork. The dish is then taken to the next level with the addition of barbecue sauce, which lends a tangy sweetness, and a sprinkling of shredded cheese, which melts beautifully over the hot meats. Finished with a scattering of crispy fried onions or fresh chopped onions for a bit of sharpness and crunch, the Hawg Dawg is a testament to Tennessee’s culinary creativity.
If you’re looking for places to eat in Sevierville that offer Hawg Dawgs, look no further than Buddy’s bar-b-q. Apart from their amazing take on this classic, they have tons of other delectable BBQ meats on offer.
2. Pork Sandwich
The pork sandwich is the heart and soul of Tennessee BBQ, capturing the essence of what makes this cuisine so beloved. Slow-cooked for hours over low heat, the pork emerges from the smoker with a tender texture and a rich, smoky flavor that’s unparalleled. This meat is then gently pulled apart, each strand soaking up the homemade barbecue sauce that’s been carefully crafted to complement the pork’s natural flavors. The sandwich is assembled with care, with the pork nestled between two halves of a soft, slightly toasted bun.
3. Chicken Sandwich
While the pork sandwich might be the star, the chicken sandwich is Tennessee BBQ’s unsung hero. It begins with chicken that’s been seasoned with a special blend of spices that highlight its natural flavors. The meat is then smoked until it reaches the perfect level of tenderness, ensuring that every bite is moist and flavorful. The chicken is finely shredded and then drenched in a slightly sweet, slightly spicy barbecue sauce that complements the smokiness of the meat. Served on a fresh bun with crisp lettuce and ripe tomato slices, the chicken sandwich offers a lighter but no less delicious alternative to the pork sandwich. It’s a testament to Tennessee BBQ’s versatility and its ability to elevate even the simplest ingredients into something extraordinary. This sandwich, with its blend of flavors and textures, perfectly encapsulates the innovative spirit of Tennessee’s barbecue scene.
4. Turkey
Smoked turkey is a relatively newer addition to the Tennessee BBQ lineup, but it has quickly become a favorite among those seeking a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. The turkey is brined in a solution of salt, sugar, and spices, infusing it with moisture and flavor before it even hits the smoker. Once in the smoker, it’s cooked low and slow, allowing the smoke to penetrate the meat, imparting a delicate yet distinct flavor that’s different from the more traditional pork or chicken. When sliced, the turkey is moist and tender, with a light smokiness that makes it stand out.
5. Beef Brisket
Beef brisket is the epitome of patience and skill in the world of Tennessee BBQ. This cut of meat is known for its tough nature, requiring a slow and steady cooking process to break down the connective tissues and render it wonderfully tender. The brisket is first rubbed with a mixture of spices, including garlic, onion, paprika, and sometimes a hint of brown sugar, creating a crust that seals in the juices and flavors. As it smokes, the brisket develops a rich, dark bark on the outside, a sign of the hours spent in the smoker.
6. Smoked Wings
Smoked wings in Tennessee are a departure from the conventional fried wing, offering a smokier, more nuanced taste that’s quickly becoming a favorite among barbecue enthusiasts. These wings are marinated in a special blend of spices that can include paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of brown sugar, creating a complex flavor profile even before they hit the smoker. The slow smoking process infuses each wing with a deep, woody aroma, transforming the skin into a crispy, flavorful exterior that encases the juicy meat within.
7. Hushpuppies
Hushpuppies, those delightful balls of deep-fried cornmeal dough, are a staple side dish in Tennessee BBQ, offering a sweet and savory contrast to the smoky meats. Infused with onions, garlic, and sometimes jalapeños for a kick, hushpuppies are crispy on the outside with a soft, fluffy interior that melts in your mouth. They serve not only as a delicious complement to barbecue dishes but also as a nod to the Southern culinary tradition.
8. Pulled Chicken
Pulled chicken offers a lighter, yet equally flavorful, alternative to the more traditional pork or beef options in Tennessee BBQ. The chicken is seasoned and smoked until it reaches a perfect tenderness, allowing it to be easily shredded. The pulled chicken is then mixed with a barbecue sauce that balances sweetness and acidity, ensuring that each bite is moist and flavorful. This dish can be served in various ways, from being piled high on a bun for a satisfying sandwich to being a star protein in a barbecue platter, accompanied by sides like coleslaw and baked beans.
Conclusion
Tennessee’s BBQ dishes are more than just food; they are a celebration of the state’s culinary heritage, blending tradition with a touch of creativity. Each dish tells a story of long hours tending the smoker, of family recipes passed down through generations, and of the communal joy that comes from sharing a meal. Whether you’re indulging in a pork sandwich, savoring the smoky goodness of a beef brisket, or enjoying the unique flavors of a Hawg Dawg, you’re experiencing a piece of Tennessee’s rich barbecue culture.
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