Gear
Father’s Day Gift Guide
One of the most challenging gift-buying holidays of the year is on the horizon—Father’s Day (Sunday, June 19).
Speaking as a guy and a father, here’s a bit of advice: Don’t give your dad a gift he would store in his dresser. If your dad is as grilling obsessed as I am, here are 10 gifts he’ll really enjoy for Father’s Day. I have personal experience with all of them, and hope my recommendations inspire you. Maybe you’ll even see something you’d like, in which case, you have my permission to print out this list and leave it where it might be seen.
To all the dads reading this, Happy Father’s Day! You’ve earned it!
Carnivore Club: Monthly, this unique Canadian company sends 4 to 6 exceptional cured meats (charcuterie) from artisanal producers from around the world to its members, usually based on a theme. I received a sample box recently, and was mentally transported to an Italian salumeria (or at least a walk-up on the Bronx’s Arthur Avenue) when I opened the sealed packages. I’m hoping my family reads this. Prices start at $55 per month for sample shipments.
KND Woodworking Cutting Boards: Each board is a one-of-a-kind custom built piece of functional kitchen art. The gently sloping cutting surface of the company’s Chef Pro series directs all meat juices towards an ingenious slot that accommodates a bowl. Perfect for resting meats before slicing and serving. Mention BarbecueBible.com when ordering and you’ll receive a $5 discount off your order.
Best of Barbecue Rib Rack: For rib fanatics, a space-saving rib rack that accommodates four full racks of ribs at once, even on a kettle grill. And the vertical orientation allows the ribs to baste themselves. The slots work with baby backs, spares, or even beef ribs.
Dry-Aged Tomahawk Rib-Eye Steaks from Chicago Steak: These are simply some of the finest steaks on Planet Barbecue. Dry-aged for six weeks, these prime Angus beefsteaks have abundant marbling, incomparable flavor, and a long, ax handle of a bone (thus the name “tomahawk”). Limited quantities available.
Project Smoke by Steven Raichlen (Workman, 2016): I spent three years researching and writing my latest book, of which celebrity chef Tom Colicchio said, “If your version of heaven has smoked meats waiting beyond the pearly gates, then Project Smoke is your bible.” If you think Dad grills well now, wait he gets his hands on 100 recipes for smoking everything from cocktails to desserts at home.
Maverick Long-Range Wireless Thermometer Set: Is your dad a “helicopter” griller, relentlessly hovering over his grill or smoker? Relieve him from the responsibility of continually monitoring the food and grill temperatures so he doesn’t miss out on precious family time. Maverick’s Long-Range Wireless Thermometer Set will allow him to keep tabs on two separate foods from up to 300 feet away.
Best of Barbecue Suede Grilling Gloves: Generously sized, these handsome black and orange suede grilling gloves protect both your hands and forearms from heat and fire. Soft and pliable for dexterity. Voted tops by Cook’s Illustrated magazine.
Eat Your Bourbon Gourmet Gift Box: A member of my team, Kentuckian Rob Baas, introduced me to Bourbon Barrel Foods, founded in 2006 in Louisville. I was blown away by their hand-crafted, micro-brewed soy sauce as well as their “Kentuckyaki” (bourbon-infused teriyaki sauce) and bourbon barrel-aged Worcestershire. Also included are bourbon-smoked spices like garlic salt, citrus-pepper, togarashi, sesame seeds, and chili powder.
Best of Barbecue Beer Can Chicken Roaster: Depending on his age, Dad may not have grown up eating beer can chicken. So if he’s never tried it, it’s your job to introduce him to this simple but dramatic technique for grilling a whole bird. This Chicken Roaster makes it easier.
Barbecue University, 2017: Enroll Dad in Barbecue University, 2017. It’s an unforgettable, over-the-top experience. He’ll enjoy three amazing days of hands-on smoking and grilling at the luxurious Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado with me as his “professor.” Better yet, join him. Dates will be announced soon. For more information, contact the Broadmoor at 855-634-7711. Classes fill up soon, so act fast.
