The Perfect Menu for Real Texas BBQ You Must Include in Your Next Event.
You are a Portlander, and you love BBQ. And why not? It’s not just a party meal…it’s a tradition passed down from generations…from our native American forefathers. It’s a symbol of strength, freedom, and masculinity.
As a personal chef in Portland for the past 15 years, I have catered hundreds of BBQ parties. I know a thing or two about the best real Texas BBQ and how it feels when you take that first bite.
So, if you are searching for the REAL Texas BBQ menu that can transform your event and impress your guests, this blog post is just for you.
Texas BBQ Main Course: Essential Smoked Meats/
A true Texas BBQ experience centers around expertly smoked meats. I will keep the menu simple and easy for you.
NOTE: LivegreensPDX offers gluten-free BBQ catering. So, the below menu is gluten-free.
For your event, choose one of these essential smoked meats to create an unforgettable meal:
1.Brisket
Brisket is a cut of beef that’s smoked low and slow until tender and juicy.
Preparation details:
- Season generously with a mix of salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Smoke at 225°F for 12-16 hours.
- Ensure an internal temperature of 195-205°F.
- Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
2. Pulled Pork
Pulled pork, made from pork butt, is slow-smoked to achieve tender, shreddable meat, perfect for sandwiches or platters.
Preparation details:
- Rub with a blend of brown sugar, paprika, and cumin.
- Smoke at 225°F for 12-14 hours.
- Aim for an internal temperature of 195-205°F.
- Shred the meat and mix with your favorite BBQ sauce.
3. Pulled Chicken
Brined and smoked to perfection, pulled chicken is a lighter but equally delicious option for your BBQ menu.
Preparation details:
- Brine whole chickens for 24 hours.
- Season with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Smoke at 250°F for 3-4 hours.
- Internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- Shred the meat and serve with a light BBQ sauce.
4. Vegan BBQ Jackfruit
A plant-based alternative, jackfruit is marinated and smoked to mimic the texture and flavor of pulled pork.
Preparation details:
- Marinate jackfruit in a mixture of pear, smoky BBQ sauce, and spices.
- Smoke at 225°F for 2-3 hours.
- Ensure it’s tender and infused with smoky flavor.
- Serve as you would pulled pork, with a vegan BBQ sauce.
Sides That Complete the Real Texas BBQ Experience
No Texas BBQ is complete without the perfect sides. Here are some essential sides that will complement your BBQ and make your event a hit:
1. Creamy Southern Coleslaw
- Traditional (Gluten-Free): A classic, creamy coleslaw made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a tangy mayonnaise-based dressing.
Ingredients:
- Shredded cabbage and carrots
- Mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and spices
- Vegan Vinaigrette: A lighter, vegan-friendly coleslaw with a vinaigrette dressing.
Ingredients:
Shredded cabbage and carrots
Olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and herbs.
2. Bacon-Jalapeño Mac N Cheese
A rich, cheesy mac n cheese with a kick of jalapeños and smoky bacon.
Ingredients:
- Macaroni pasta
- Cheese sauce with cheddar and cream cheese
- Chopped jalapeños and crispy bacon
3. German Potato Salad
A tangy potato salad made with vinegar, bacon, and onions. It’s served warm and is gluten-free.
Ingredients:
- Potatoes, bacon, and onions
- Vinegar, mustard, sugar, and spices
- Gluten-Free Option: Ensure all ingredients are labeled gluten-free.
4. BBQ Baked Beans
- With Ground Beef (Gluten-Free): Smoky, sweet baked beans with ground beef, making a hearty side dish.
Ingredients:
- Beans, ground beef, and BBQ sauce
- Brown sugar, onions, and spices
- Vegan Option (Gluten-Free): A vegan version with all the flavor but none of the meat.
Ingredients:
- Beans, vegan BBQ sauce, and spices
- Brown sugar, onions, and peppers
Real Texas Sauces and Extras
Complete your Texas BBQ spread with these essential sauces and extras. They add the perfect finishing touches to your meal:
- BBQ Sauce
A rich, tangy sauce that enhances the flavor of smoked meats.
Ingredients:
- Tomato base, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve in squeeze bottles for easy access.
- Ideal as a dipping sauce or drizzled over meats.
- White Bread and Hawaiian Rolls
These breads are perfect for making sandwiches or soaking up extra sauce.
- White Bread: Classic and soft, ideal for brisket or pulled pork sandwiches.
- Hawaiian Rolls: Sweet and tender, great for sliders or as a side.
- Pickle Chips
- Dill Pickle Chips: Crunchy and tangy, they add a refreshing bite to your BBQ plate.
- Bread & Butter Pickle Chips: Sweet and tangy, they provide a nice contrast to the smoky flavors.
These sauces and extras ensure your Texas BBQ meal is flavorful and satisfying for all your guests.
Ready to Plan Your Texas BBQ Feast?
A perfect Texas BBQ menu can make your event truly special. From smoked meats like brisket and pulled pork to delicious sides and sauces, each dish plays a part. Now that you know what makes a great Texas BBQ, it’s time to start planning your feast.
Need help planning your menu? Contact us today to create an unforgettable Texas BBQ experience for your next event
