Holy Smoke: The Big Book of North Carolina Barbecue

This is certainly not a cookbook although there are some recipes in it. It is a look at the history of barbecue in North Carolina and does a great job at that task. Full of stories anecdotes and interesting history. It really explains the regional differences although today those differences are blurring.

A fun romp through NC Barbequeue history and current times; recipes to boot!If you're a fan of North Carolina Barbequeue, or interested in the unique sauces (Vinegar!), or the subleties, or just a good read and stories, and recipes, then this book is for you.Do get the revised edition so you don't miss any fun nor currency.

Though not a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill, I am nonetheless Tar Heel born, bred, and someday dead--and I revel in the delights of this book. If you crossed M. F. K. Fisher with Charles Kuralt, you'd end up with something close to the authors Reed in their bountiful appreciation of North Carolina barbecue: its history, nuances, and delectable controversies. Though a lot of research has been invested in this book, there's nothing heavy-handed about it: this is regional gastronomy at its finest, copiously illustrated and written with wit. The aroma of Carolina 'cue almost wafts from its pages. There is no higher praise.

This book covers the bases of North Carolina Barbecue. It discusses the history of North Carolina Barbecue, how to cook pork shoulders and whole hogs, gives recipes for famous Eastern and Piedmont barbecue sauces and various side dishes and desserts, and has interviews with the foremost North Carolina barbecue restaurant owners who cook in the traditional style. The book is fun, interesting, and informative. Highly recommended. Review by Certified Barbecue Judge (Memphis, Kansas City, North Carolina)

I like to learn the origins of how something came to be. This book definitely gives you that, and explains the intra state rivalry that has existed here in NC for as long as I remember even in my own family. My father was from the mountains, and his brother was a coastal guy. They'd argue at every cookout about what good Carolina BBQ really was, and I never really got it until I read this book.Good historical references, and some good recipes for 'Real Carolina BBQ"! What's not to love about this book.

bought this for my husband who is into smoking meats - and he loves it. lots of fun facts and info on different types of BBQ / smoking, plus recipes for all the appropriate side dishes. I have read parts of it as well - and like that it is more than a cook book - really tells a story at the same time.

I'm giving this as a gift, but I skimmed it. It brought back lots of childhood memories of Eastern NC.

If you would like to know the history of true art of BBQ in different states throughout the south, buy this this book. There is extensive information on origins of recipes.

Great book if you're interested in culinary history or want to know about different styles of US barbecue. Would recommend to anyone who wants to produce authentic barbecue but not sure that all the recipes would be everyone's cup of tea (here in the UK), although my son is very keen on trying the bread and butter pudding made with Krispy Kreme donuts next time we have barbecue..!Quite an expensive option if you're looking for a book full of recipes but an interesting read..