pitmaster
/ˈpɪtmæstər/
Definition
A highly skilled individual, often a professional competitor, who demonstrates expert-level command over the techniques of smoking, grilling, and seasoning barbecue meats.
Etymology
The word is a compound of 'pit'—referring to the traditional trench or structure used for roasting meat over an open fire—and 'master,' indicating a person with authoritative expertise. It gained prominence in American English during the 20th century to designate the primary cook in charge of a barbecue operation.
In the news
In the article, pitmasters are the elite professionals competing in the Official National BBQ Championship to win prizes and national recognition for their culinary mastery. Their role is central to the festival, as they demonstrate the high level of precision and smoke mastery required at the competitive level.
THE 34TH GIANT NATIONAL BBQ BATTLE UNITED MORE THAN 100,000 ATTENDEES IN A HISTORIC CELEBRATION OF WORLD FLAVORS AND CULTURE, CEMENTING ITS STATUS AS AMERICA'S FOOD AND MUSIC FESTIVAL
Read the full article ↗PR Newswire