Long weekend? Good. That means you cooked. Now it’s time for the reset. Before you start thinking about next weekend’s ribs, brisket, or burgers, handle the fundamentals:
• Clean the grates (don’t let last weekend’s sauce become this weekend’s flavor profile).
• Empty the ash.
• Wipe down the smoker.
• Sharpen the knives.
• Check pellets, charcoal, wood chunks.
• Restock your go-to rubs and sauces.
BBQ isn’t just about the cook — it’s about preparation. The best pitmasters win before the fire ever gets lit. Take 30 minutes today to reset your station. Future you — standing over a perfectly running smoker on Saturday — will be glad you did. What’s the one thing you always forget to restock?