Introduction

Brief Overview of Meat Church and its Significance in the BBQ World

Meat Church Recipes, a name that resonates with BBQ enthusiasts, has carved a niche for itself in the world of barbeque. Founded by Matt Pittman, this brand emerged from humble beginnings. Pittman’s journey began with a televised barbecue competition, which, despite not winning, became the launchpad for his BBQ rub business. Within a short span, Meat Church BBQ transformed from a home-run business in Waxahachie to a brand that surpassed a million dollars in sales.

The Rise of Meat Church

• Televised Start: Pittman first gained recognition on the TV show BBQ Pitmasters. Despite finishing last in one of the episodes, the exposure led to a surge in orders for his rubs, especially the popular Holy Cow and Honey Hog BBQ.
• Retail Expansion: In 2018, Pittman opened the Meat Church BBQ Supply store in downtown Waxahachie. This store became a haven for BBQ enthusiasts, offering everything from rubs to smokers. Meat Church BBQ Supply is more than just a store; it’s a testament to Pittman’s dedication to the craft.
• Educational Endeavors: Beyond selling products, Pittman is passionate about educating others. He hosts barbecue classes in his backyard, inviting renowned pitmasters to share their expertise.

Significance in the BBQ World

Meat Church’s significance isn’t just about its products. It’s about the community it has built and the way it has reshaped the BBQ landscape. The brand’s name, which might seem edgy to some, resonates with many, even getting a nod of approval from a priest who quipped, “That’s a church I can get behind.”

In the BBQ world, where tradition is revered, Meat Church has managed to blend the old with the new, creating a brand that’s both respectful of the past and excited for the future. For those looking to dive deeper into the world of BBQ, the Meat Church website offers a plethora of resources.

History of Meat Church

Origins and Evolution of Meat Church Recipes

The story of Meat Church recipes is a tale of passion, innovation, and a deep love for BBQ. Founded by Matt Pittman, the brand has its roots in a televised barbecue competition. Despite not clinching the top spot, this competition became the catalyst for Pittman’s BBQ rub business.

The Genesis of Meat Church

• Televised Beginnings: Pittman’s first major exposure came from the TV show BBQ Pitmasters. Even though he and his brother didn’t win, this platform was instrumental in kickstarting his brand. As the episode aired, the Meat Church website went live, introducing the world to its initial offerings: the Holy Cow and Honey Hog BBQ rubs.
• Recipe Evolution: Over time, Meat Church expanded its repertoire. From the initial two rubs, the brand now boasts a diverse range of seasonings, each crafted with meticulous care. Some of these include the Holy Voodoo Seasoning, Honey Bacon BBQ Rub, and The Gospel All Purpose BBQ Rub. These recipes, inspired by various BBQ traditions and Pittman’s own experiments, have become staples in many BBQ enthusiasts’ kitchens.

The Journey to BBQ Supremacy

• Continuous Innovation: Meat Church’s commitment to innovation is evident in their ever-evolving range of recipes. They continuously experiment, refine, and introduce new flavors to cater to the diverse palates of BBQ lovers. A visit to their recipe section reveals a plethora of dishes, each showcasing the versatility of their rubs.
• Community Building: Beyond just recipes, Meat Church has built a community. They host BBQ classes & events, bringing together BBQ aficionados and novices alike. These events serve as a platform for sharing knowledge, techniques, and of course, some mouth-watering BBQ.

Top Meat Church Recipes

Brisket Smashburger Tacos

In 2023, the BBQ world witnessed a viral trend that combined the best of two worlds: brisket and tacos. Enter the Brisket Smashburger Tacos. This innovative dish is a testament to Meat Church’s commitment to pushing culinary boundaries and introducing mouth-watering recipes.

The Inspiration

• Viral Trend: The Smashburger Taco trend took the culinary world by storm in 2023. Smashburgers, known for their crispy edges and juicy centers, found a new avatar in taco form.
• Meat Church’s Twist: Not one to be left behind, Meat Church introduced their version by grinding a brisket to achieve the perfect 80/20 meat-to-fat ratio. This ensured that the tacos held together well and were packed with flavor.

Recipe Highlights

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lbs 80/20 ground beef (brisket ground for this recipe)
  • 4 slices cheddar cheese
  • Meat Church Dia de la Fajita seasoning
  • 4 fresh tortillas
  • Garnish: chopped lettuce and tomatoes
  • Smashburger Sauce: A blend of mayo, spicy ketchup, yellow mustard, Worcestershire sauce, pickled jalapeño, red onion, and Meat Church Texas Sugar.
• Cooking Process: The ground beef is rolled into balls, placed on a griddle, and then smashed with a tortilla. After a quick cook and a flip, they’re seasoned with the Dia de la Fajita seasoning, topped with cheese, and then garnished to perfection.

For those eager to try this recipe at home, Meat Church has provided a detailed how-to video to guide BBQ enthusiasts through the process.

Jerky – Beef & Venison

Jerky, a beloved snack for many, has been enjoyed for centuries. Its origins trace back to ancient civilizations that dried meat for preservation. Today, jerky has evolved into a gourmet treat, and Meat Church has taken it to the next level with their Beef & Venison jerky.

The Craftsmanship Behind the Jerky

• Choice of Meat: The selection of high-quality beef and venison is paramount. Venison, known for its lean profile and unique flavor, pairs beautifully with beef to create a balanced taste.
• Seasoning and Marination: Meat Church’s signature rubs and seasonings are used to marinate the meat, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. The combination of spices, herbs, and natural ingredients brings out the best in the meat.

Tasting Notes

• Texture: The jerky strikes a balance between being tender and chewy. The drying process is meticulously monitored to ensure the jerky retains its moisture while achieving the desired texture.
• Flavor Profile: The beef provides a robust, meaty flavor, while the venison introduces a hint of gamey richness. This combination, when seasoned with Meat Church’s rubs, results in a symphony of flavors.

Mexican Schnitzel

The fusion of flavors from different cultures often results in culinary masterpieces, and the Mexican Schnitzel is no exception. This dish is a delightful amalgamation of the traditional German schnitzel technique and the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine.

The Concept Behind the Dish

• Origins: Traditionally, schnitzel is made using pork. However, Meat Church took a creative leap by using chicken marinated in a style reminiscent of Mexican meat markets. This fusion not only adds a unique flavor profile but also ensures a juicy interior.
• Inspiration: The idea sparked when pondering how chicken, typically marinated for fajitas in Mexican meat markets, would taste when fried with Latin breadcrumbs. The result? A dish that’s both familiar and refreshingly new.

Crafting the Mexican Schnitzel

• Ingredients:
  • 2 lbs Mexican meat market marinated chicken (either thighs or breasts)
  • Goya Latin breadcrumbs
  • Flour
  • Meat Church Dia de la Fajita seasoning
  • Frying oil
  • Egg wash (comprising beaten eggs and buttermilk)
• Process: The chicken is first pounded to an even thickness, ensuring even cooking. It’s then seasoned, dredged in flour, dipped in the egg wash, and finally coated in Latin breadcrumbs. The chicken is then fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender interior.

Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls

The Rotel Cream Cheese Sausage Balls are a delightful treat that combines the rich flavors of sausage with the tangy kick of Rotel tomatoes and the creaminess of cheese. This dish is a testament to Meat Church’s innovative approach to BBQ, blending traditional recipes with a modern twist.

The Recipe’s Origin

• Inspiration: The idea of combining sausage with Rotel tomatoes and cream cheese might seem unconventional, but it’s this very combination that makes these sausage balls irresistibly delicious. The spicy kick from the Rotel tomatoes complements the savory flavors of the sausage, while the cream cheese adds a creamy texture.

Crafting the Sausage Balls

• Ingredients:
  • 1 lb hot sausage (uncooked)
  • 8-oz package of cream cheese (softened)
  • 10-oz can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (drained)
  • 1½ cups of Bisquick
  • 2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend
• Process: Begin by preheating the oven to 400ºF. In a mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients until well blended. Using a scoop, form the mixture into 1-inch balls and place them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until they turn golden brown.

Honey Garlic Tequila Lime Wings

The Honey Garlic Tequila Lime Wings are a culinary masterpiece that showcases the innovative spirit of Meat Church. This dish is a harmonious blend of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors, making it a must-try for wing enthusiasts.

The Recipe’s Backstory

• Inspiration: The recipe was introduced by Tony Ramirez, known as @tfti.bbq on social media platforms like IG & TikTok. His creation quickly gained traction, capturing the attention of BBQ lovers, including Meat Church.

Crafting the Wings

• Ingredients:
  • 4 lbs chicken wings
  • Meat Church Holy Cow seasoning
  • Al Frugoni Chimichurri Dry Rub
  • Wing Sauce Ingredients:
    • 1 stick unsalted butter (melted)
    • 1/2 cup hot honey
    • 1 clove of garlic (minced)
    • Juice & zest of 1 lime
    • 1 shot of blanco Tequila (Dos Primos recommended)
    • Meat Church Holy Cow seasoning
• Cooking Process: The wings are first seasoned with the Holy Cow seasoning and then coated liberally with Al Frugoni’s Chimichurri Dry Rub. They’re smoked at 250ºF using post oak, hickory, or pecan. An hour into the cooking, the sauce is prepared by combining all its ingredients and warming it up. The wings are cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 185-190ºF. Once done, they’re tossed in the prepared sauce.

Mesquite Smoked BBQ Chicken Quarters with Jalapeño Glaze

The allure of BBQ is often in its fusion of flavors, and the Mesquite Smoked BBQ Chicken Quarters with Jalapeño Glaze stands as a testament to this. This dish, introduced by Meat Church, combines the smoky aroma of mesquite with the spicy kick of jalapeño, resulting in a flavor profile that’s both bold and tantalizing.

The Recipe’s Genesis

• Inspiration: The recipe was a brainchild of Tony Ramirez, a renowned name in the BBQ world. His vision was to create a dish that would be both familiar and novel, and this chicken recipe does just that.
• Mesquite’s Role: Mesquite wood is known for its strong, earthy flavor. When used for smoking, it imparts a distinct smoky aroma to the meat, enhancing its overall taste.

Crafting the Chicken Quarters

• Ingredients:
  • Chicken quarters
  • Meat Church Holy Cow seasoning
  • Mesquite wood for smoking
  • Jalapeño glaze: A blend of spicy jalapeños with a hint of sweetness.
• Cooking Process: The chicken quarters are seasoned generously with the Holy Cow seasoning. They’re then smoked using mesquite wood, ensuring they absorb its rich flavor. Once smoked, they’re glazed with the jalapeño mixture, adding a spicy kick to the smoky chicken.

Beer Cheese Dip

The Beer Cheese Dip is a delightful blend of sharp Cheddar, nutty Gruyère, and the robust flavor of lager. This dip is perfect for game day, casual get-togethers, or any occasion that calls for a rich and creamy appetizer.

The Recipe’s Inspiration

• Origins: The Beer Cheese Dip is essentially a twist on the classic Mornay sauce, which is the foundation of traditional mac and cheese. However, instead of milk, this recipe uses a combination of half & half and beer.
• Unique Twist: The use of lager, especially brands like Fat Tire, Budweiser, or Coors Light, adds a distinct flavor to the dip. The sharpness of Cheddar combined with the nuttiness of Gruyère elevates the taste.

Crafting the Beer Cheese Dip

• Ingredients:
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup lager beer
  • 1½ cups half & half
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Scant ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 4 oz shredded Cheddar cheese
  • 4 oz shredded Gruyère cheese
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives for garnish
• Cooking Process: The butter is melted in a saucepan, followed by the addition of flour. The beer and half & half are then whisked in, along with other seasonings. Once the mixture boils and thickens, the cheeses are added gradually, ensuring a smooth and creamy texture.

Cooking Tips and Techniques

Best Practices for Getting the Most Flavor Out of Meat Church Seasonings

Meat Church seasonings have gained immense popularity in the BBQ world, known for their ability to elevate the flavors of various dishes. To truly harness the potential of these seasonings, it’s essential to follow some best practices. Here’s how you can get the most out of Meat Church seasonings:

Understand the Seasoning Profile

• Research: Before using any seasoning, it’s crucial to understand its flavor profile. For instance, the Meat Church Holy Cow seasoning is versatile and can be used on beef, chicken, pork, seafood, and even vegetables.

Application Techniques

• Even Distribution: Ensure that the seasoning is evenly distributed over the meat. This can be achieved by sprinkling from a height or using a shaker.
• Marination Time: Allow the meat to marinate for an adequate amount of time. This ensures that the flavors penetrate deep into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Pairing with Other Ingredients

• Complementary Flavors: Pair the seasonings with ingredients that complement their flavor. For instance, a spicy seasoning can be balanced with a creamy sauce or dip.
• Avoid Overpowering: While it’s tempting to use a lot of seasoning, it’s essential to avoid overpowering the natural flavors of the meat.

Cooking Techniques

• Grilling vs. Smoking: The method of cooking can influence how the seasoning flavors the meat. For instance, smoking might enhance the smoky notes of a particular seasoning, while grilling might highlight its spicy or tangy notes.
• Temperature Control: Ensure that you’re cooking at the right temperature. Too high, and the seasoning might burn, too low, and it might not release its full flavor.

Grilling vs. Smoking: Which is Best for Different Recipes?

The age-old debate of grilling vs. smoking has been a topic of discussion among BBQ enthusiasts for years. Both methods have their unique characteristics and are suited for different types of dishes. Let’s dive into the nuances of each method and determine which is best for various recipes.

Grilling: The Quick and High-Heat Method

• Definition: Grilling is all about cooking food quickly over a hot fire, either fueled by charcoal or gas. It involves cooking at temperatures of 350°F or above, usually for less than an hour.
• Best for: Tender cuts of meat like ribeye steaks, strip steaks, and T-bones. Grilling is also suitable for fish, vegetables, and other foods that require short cooking times.
• Advantages: Grilling offers a charred flavor and sear marks, which many find appealing. It’s also a faster method, making it ideal for weekday dinners or impromptu BBQs.

Barbecuing: The Low and Slow Technique

• Definition: Barbecuing involves cooking large cuts of meat at very low temperatures, typically between 190°F and 300°F. This method requires several hours, making it a more time-intensive process.
• Best for: Large cuts like pork shoulders, beef briskets, rib roasts, and whole turkeys. The slow cooking process makes tough cuts tender and flavorful.
• Advantages: Barbecuing imparts a deep smoky flavor to the meat, especially when wood chips or chunks are added to the charcoal. The meat becomes incredibly tender due to the prolonged cooking.

Smoking: The Flavor Infusion Method

• Definition: Smoking is an extreme version of barbecuing where food is cooked using smoke from smoldering wood chunks or chips. This method requires temperatures between 125°F and 175°F.
• Best for: Meats that benefit from a deep smoky flavor, such as ribs, briskets, and pulled pork.
• Advantages: Smoking infuses the meat with a unique flavor that’s hard to replicate with other cooking methods. The low temperatures ensure that the smoky flavor penetrates deep into the meat.

Pairing Meat Church Dishes with Sides

Recommendations for Complementary Side Dishes

When it comes to BBQ, the main dish often takes center stage. However, the side dishes play a crucial role in complementing the flavors and making the meal complete. Here are some top recommendations for side dishes that pair perfectly with your BBQ main course:

Classic Favorites

• Southern Potato Salad: A staple in many BBQs, this creamy dish is both hearty and flavorful. It’s a blend of potatoes, mayo, mustard, and various seasonings. Check out the Southern Potato Salad recipe.
• Cucumber Salad: This light and refreshing salad is a great palate cleanser, especially when you have rich, smoky meats on your plate. Dive into the Cucumber Salad recipe.
• Crock-Pot Mac and Cheese: Who can resist the creamy goodness of mac and cheese? Especially when it’s made effortlessly in a slow cooker. Here’s the Crock-Pot Mac and Cheese recipe.

Fresh and Vibrant

• Strawberry Arugula Salad: The sweet strawberries paired with peppery arugula and salty feta offer a delightful contrast. Explore Ree’s Strawberry Arugula Salad recipe.
• Grilled Asparagus: Simply grilled with a hint of lemon and red pepper flakes, this side dish is both healthy and delicious. Check out the Grilled Asparagus recipe.

Unique Twists

• Dill Pickle Pasta Salad: A tangy side dish that combines the crunch of pickles with the softness of pasta. A must-try, especially if you’re looking for something different. Dive into the Dill Pickle Pasta Salad recipe.
• Creamed Corn: A summer favorite, this dish is thick, sweet, and bursting with the flavors of fresh corn and basil. Here’s the Creamed Corn recipe.

International Flair

• Italian Pasta Salad: Packed with mozzarella pearls, diced salami, and black olives, this salad is a meal in itself. Discover the Italian Pasta Salad recipe.
• Hawaiian Macaroni Salad: A creamy and tangy salad that’s perfect for any BBQ setting. Check out the Hawaiian Macaroni Salad recipe.

FAQs

What is the Best Meat Church Seasoning for Steak?

When it comes to grilling the perfect steak, the seasoning plays a pivotal role in enhancing the meat’s natural flavors. Among the plethora of seasonings available, Meat Church’s offerings stand out, particularly for steak enthusiasts. But which one is the best for steak?

Holy Cow BBQ Rub: The Top Contender

• Profile: The Holy Cow BBQ Rub is a versatile seasoning from Meat Church that’s suitable for a variety of meats, including beef, chicken, pork, seafood, and even vegetables. However, its flavor profile shines exceptionally well with steaks.
• Composition: This rub is a blend of traditional BBQ flavors, with a balance of savory and slightly spicy notes. It’s not overly salty, ensuring that the meat’s natural flavors aren’t overshadowed.
• Application: For the best results, season your steak generously with the Holy Cow BBQ Rub. Let it marinate for a while to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat. This ensures a flavorful crust when grilled or smoked.
• Pairing: The Holy Cow BBQ Rub pairs well with both grilled and smoked steaks. Whether you’re going for a quick sear on the grill or a slow smoke for a reverse-seared steak, this rub complements the meat beautifully.

Which Meat Church is Best on Chicken?

When it comes to seasoning chicken, the right blend can elevate the flavors and make every bite memorable. Meat Church, known for its array of BBQ seasonings, offers a variety of rubs suitable for different meats. But which one stands out for chicken?

The Gospel All-Purpose BBQ Rub: A Versatile Choice

• Profile: The Gospel All-Purpose BBQ Rub is described as the one rub you need for every cook, including chicken. Its southwestern style boasts a bright red hue and delivers an authentic BBQ flavor.
• Composition: This rub is a harmonious blend of sugar, salt, spices including paprika, dextrose, dehydrated garlic, celery, and other spice extractives. It’s gluten-free and contains no MSG, ensuring a pure, unadulterated taste.
• Application: For a flavorful chicken, season generously with The Gospel rub. Whether you’re grilling, smoking, or baking, this rub imparts a rich flavor that complements the natural taste of chicken.
• Pairing: The Gospel rub is not just limited to chicken. It’s versatile enough to be used on beef, pork, seafood, and even vegetables. So, if you’re planning a BBQ feast, this rub can be your go-to seasoning for multiple dishes.

For those who are keen on trying smoked chicken, Meat Church offers a delightful recipe that pairs perfectly with The Gospel rub. The result? A smoky, flavorful chicken that’s sure to be a hit at any BBQ gathering.

What BBQ Sauce Does Meat Church Use?

Meat Church, renowned for its BBQ seasonings, also has a flair for crafting unique BBQ sauces that complement their rubs. One of their standout sauces is the Bourbon BBQ Sauce.

Bourbon BBQ Sauce: A Flavorful Fusion

• Profile: The Bourbon BBQ Sauce by Meat Church is a delightful blend of BBQ and bourbon, two elements that go together seamlessly. This sauce is especially recommended for pork ribs, enhancing their smoky flavor with a hint of bourbon richness.
• Composition:
  • 2 C ketchup
  • 1 C brown sugar
  • 6 ounces bourbon
  • 1 T Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 T Meat Church Holy Cow seasoning
  • 1 T black pepper
• Application: To make this sauce, combine all the ingredients in a medium saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes. Once cooled, it can be bottled in a mason jar for future use.
• Pairing: This sauce is particularly recommended for Meat Church’s Bourbon Barrel Ribs. The combination of the bourbon-infused sauce and the smoky ribs is nothing short of a BBQ delight.

Apart from the Bourbon BBQ Sauce, Meat Church also offers other unique sauces like the Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce and Cheerwine BBQ Sauce, each bringing a distinct flavor profile to the table. For more details on these sauces and how to best use them, you can explore the recipes section on Meat Church’s website.

Which Meat Church Seasoning is Best for Ribs?

Ribs, with their succulent meat and potential for a smoky flavor, are a BBQ favorite. When it comes to seasoning ribs, the right rub can make all the difference. Meat Church, with its diverse range of BBQ seasonings, offers several rubs that can elevate your rib game. But which one is the best for ribs?

Texas Sugar: The Sweet Heat Rub

• Profile: Texas Sugar is a versatile sweet-heat pork and poultry rub. It’s not just about the sweetness; this rub brings a balanced heat that complements the sweet notes, making it perfect for ribs.
• Composition: The rub is a blend of sugar, salt, spices, and other ingredients. It’s less sugary than some of Meat Church’s other seasonings, but the name “Texas Sugar” is catchy and represents its sweet profile.
• Application: For ribs that stand out, season them generously with Texas Sugar. Whether you’re going for a smoked rib or a grilled one, this rub ensures a rich, flavorful crust.
• Pairing: Texas Sugar is not just limited to ribs. It’s also fantastic on pulled pork, chicken, turkey, seafood, and even smoked cream cheese. If you’re planning a BBQ, this rub can be your versatile seasoning choice.

Another notable mention is the Honey Hog BBQ Rub, which is a sweet rub with a kick, making it a fantastic choice for ribs. Additionally, The Holy Gospel BBQ Rub is also a great choice for ribs, chicken, and beef, offering a balanced flavor profile.

Conclusion

Summarizing the Appeal and Uniqueness of Meat Church Recipes

Meat Church, over the years, has established itself as a beacon of culinary excellence in the BBQ world. Their recipes are not just about grilling meat; they are about creating an experience. Let’s delve into what makes Meat Church recipes so special:

A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

• Tradition: At its core, Meat Church embraces the age-old traditions of BBQ. Their recipes often hark back to the roots of classic BBQ, ensuring that the essence of traditional grilling is never lost.
• Innovation: While they respect tradition, Meat Church is not afraid to experiment. Their recipes, like the Brisket Smashburger Tacos or the Fried Dill Pickle Dip, showcase a blend of classic techniques with modern twists.

Quality Ingredients with a Focus on Flavor

• Seasonings: Meat Church’s range of seasonings, from Texas Sugar to Honey Hog BBQ Rub, are crafted to perfection. Each seasoning is a symphony of flavors, ensuring that every bite is memorable.
• Sauces: Their unique sauces, like the Bourbon BBQ Sauce or the Dr Pepper BBQ Sauce, add layers of flavor to the dishes, making them stand out.

Community Engagement and Learning

• Meat Church is not just about recipes; it’s about building a community. They offer BBQ Classes & Events, ensuring that enthusiasts can learn and grow in their BBQ journey.

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