
HowToBBQRight Judging Open Fire Meat Up & Best Thanksgiving Sides
Nov 21, 2025
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and the hosts gear up with festive traditions and favorite sides like sweet potato casserole and mac and cheese. They share highlights from an action-packed Open Fire Meetup in Texas, where Malcom judged standout BBQ bites. A fun elk-hunting trip brings delicious reverse-seared steaks into the mix. Plus, helpful turkey prep tips, including brining advice and the best reheating techniques, ensure your holiday bird is moist and flavorful. Don't forget the dessert debates, from pecan pie to new baking adventures!
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Open Fire Meetup Atmosphere
- Malcolm attended the Open Fire Meetup in Hondo, Texas and described it as a high-energy, public-friendly barbecue event.
- Teams built live-fire pits, hung whole animals, and handed out tacos and samples to win people's tokens.
Judging International Finalists
- Malcolm judged the finals and tasted diverse dishes from teams representing several countries.
- He praised an enchilada-style rib and a Guatemalan pork-belly salsa as standout flavors.
Memorable International Dishes
- Malcolm tried moose poutine from a Canadian team and a Chivito sandwich from Uruguay, both praised for bold flavors.
- The German team served whole pigs simply seasoned with salt over fire, focusing on pure pork flavor.
