Summer BBQ from JF’s grill master

Jeffrey Tilton is the Jewett Farms + Co. cabinet shop manager. Jeff’s eye for detail and commitment to craftsmanship are skills that he brings not only to his work with JF, but also to his hobbies, one of which is great Barbecue. Learn a little more about Jeff and his recipe for BBQ smoked Pork.

JEFF TILTON

My career as a woodworker began when I was charged with vacuuming my father’s wood shop at the tender age of three.  Many years later, I transitioned from my father’s commercial shop to custom residential cabinetry and I haven’t looked back.  My family and I relocated to the NH seacoast 2 years ago giving me the opportunity to work with Jewett Farms.

What I like most about woodworking is that usually the most simple way of doing something is the best way. It’s a philosophy that can be extended to all parts of life, Including barbecue.  I believe the simpler the recipe, the better it is.

JEFF’S BBQ PORK

Barbecue should be about the meat, not covered up with sauces or complicated rubs.  When the meat is the showcase, you have to start with quality. That means sourced from a pig humanely raised and processed well.  For pulled pork you will want a bone-in “boston butt” (or shoulder) with an intact fat cap.

The night before I plan to smoke BBQ, I cover the meat in a layer of salt and let it sit uncovered in the refrigerator. When smoking, the surface of the meat should be dry. In the morning I apply my simple rub of equal parts salt and black pepper, with some onion and garlic powder thrown in. Then it goes in the smoker at 250 degrees for 6-8 hours. Or until you reach an internal temperature of 195 degrees. Remember the saying “if you’re lookin’, it ain’t cookin!”  Avoid peeking and don’t try to rush it, it will be done when it’s done.  Let it rest for an hour.

The low application of heat and smoke renders the connective tissue and fat into collagen, which allows the bone to be easily pulled out and the meat to fall apart. Best enjoyed with a side of homemade mac-and-cheese!

Schedule a visit to the JF cabinet shop in York, Maine. Meet Jeff and see how we make our cabinets.