If Southern barbeque is known for saucy ribs and Texas barbeque for smoked brisket, then California’s claim to meat-grilling fame must be Santa Maria-style. This type of barbecue comes from the Santa Maria region of California. Thanks to fertile soil combined with a warm, coastal climate, the area has always been an agricultural hotspot, and those elements are reflected in the flavor of the food.
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What Is Santa Maria Style?
The Santa Maria barbecue technique produces tender, juicy, and flavorful meat without adding sweet or tart sauces. Virtually any type of meat or meat alternative can be barbecued using the Santa Maria method. However, to be considered truly Santa Maria-style, the meat must be cooked on a skewer over smoldering live oak chips from native trees. Looking for high-quality grill options? Explore the reviews of Blaze Grills and Summerset to make an informed choice for your backyard.
Origins of Santa Maria-Style Barbecue
Today, the Santa Maria region is known for its sprawling vineyards and vast wineries. However, the area was first settled by beef ranchers who were drawn to its lush grazing fields. The region’s namesake barbecue method originated sometime during the 19th century as a way for ranchers to welcome ranch hands and vaqueros to a new cattle-driving season.
During these early years, meat was roasted directly on top of a flaming pile of live oak boughs, which were usually heaped in a pit or trough. Eventually, local residents started skewering the meat to cook above the fire rather than directly on the flames. Accompaniments to the barbecue were designed to appeal to the local demographic, a mix of Mexican and Anglo residents.
A traditional spread may contain macaroni salad, grilled loaves of crusty bread, and a chunky “California-style” salsa milder and sweeter than the typical Mexican version. “Pinquitos,” a type of small, white bean indigenous to the region, is also a common side dish in traditional Santa Maria-style barbecue. The meat is usually flavored simply with salt, pepper, and lots and lots of garlic.
The Santa Maria Club
This style of barbecue finally earned its name in the 1930s when the Santa Maria Club began hosting a weekly cookout utilizing the local barbecue technique. These cookouts attracted hundreds of hungry guests, which necessitated the installation of a specially-designed grill that could cook large amounts of meat on multiple skewers, all of which were suspended over a special compartment filled with red oak coals.
As word spread and popularity grew through the mid-20th century, local businesses began opening barbecue restaurants with their own Santa Maria grills. By the ’50s, Santa Maria style was established as California’s very own style of barbecue.
Santa Maria-Style Today
The best Santa Maria barbecue is in Santa Maria, California. However, modern technology has made it possible to recreate this style in your own backyard. Even if you’re a beginner, a specialized Santa Maria grill makes it easy to cook perfect meat with little effort. A very basic model may have a compartment for coals, a height-adjustable rotisserie, and a hand-powered crank for turning the meat.
Advanced models may be outfitted with additional features like a motorized spit or an attached smoker. Although beef is the traditional choice, you can also roast other barbecue staples, like bratwurst and drumsticks, if your grill also has a cast iron grate above the fire.
The proper grill isn’t the only requirement for authentic Santa Maria-style barbecue. Real Santa Maria-style begins with beef, typically top sirloin or tri-tip, seasoned in a dry rub of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. It’s best to avoid sauces, which can detract from the flavor of the cooked beef.
You must also use red oak coals to be considered Santa Maria-style. Side dishes should be mild in flavor to not detract from the main attraction, which is the meat. For best results, stick to the traditional beans, salad, and crusty garlic bread offerings.
Level Up Your Backyard BBQ
If you plan to host a backyard cookout sometime this year, skip the hot dogs and hamburgers. Instead, impress your guests with a surprise Santa Maria barbecue! You don’t even have to be a professional chef or grillmaster. All you need is a specialized grill, some good cuts of meat, and a reason to celebrate with friends.