The Sporkful

The Pitmaster With A Pulpit

Feb 24, 2025
In this engaging conversation, Devin Pickard, a pitmaster and preacher, shares how he balances his roles at Papa KayJoe's BBQ and Hope Church in Centerville, Tennessee. He opens up about the healing power of food and community amidst personal challenges. Tammy Allgood, a cookbook author and food editor, adds her insights on Sunday dinner etiquette and the competitive spirit of church potlucks. Their discussions highlight the rich cultural traditions of Southern cuisine and the emotional ties that bind families and communities over shared meals.
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ANECDOTE

Old-School BBQ

  • Devin Pickard learned barbecue in Dixon, Tennessee, using old-school methods.
  • He cooked shoulders over hickory wood, learning by feel and adjusting to hot spots without thermostats.
INSIGHT

Barbecue Geography

  • Dan Pashman questions why good barbecue is geographically limited despite being a learned craft.
  • He notes that many New York barbecue joints claim Southern authenticity but fail to replicate the quality.
ANECDOTE

Indianapolis Smoker

  • Devin Pickard shares an anecdote about a man who bought a smoker to open a barbecue place in Indianapolis but gave up.
  • Pickard emphasizes that good barbecue requires years of experience to master consistency and handle variations in meat.
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