Ep 8. Johnny Trigg's Shootout

Johnny Trigg, a legend in the world of barbecue, is the featured pitmaster in episode 8 of BBQ Pitmasters. In this episode, Trigg goes head-to-head against three other pitmasters in a high stakes shootout competition.

The shootout format is unique to BBQ Pitmasters and adds an element of excitement and pressure to an already intense competition. Each pitmaster gets four hours to cook three different meats: beef brisket, pork ribs, and chicken. The winners of each category move on to the final round, where they must cook a mystery meat chosen by the judges.

Trigg, a two-time world champion and one of the most respected names in the barbecue community, is feeling the pressure from the start. He's up against some tough competitors, including Tuffy Stone, a Virginia-based pitmaster who has won numerous awards for his barbecue.

As the clock ticks down, the pitmasters work furiously to smoke their meats to perfection. They use a variety of techniques, from wrapping the meat in foil to adding special spice rubs and marinades.

The judges, who include some of the most respected names in barbecue, sample each entry and give their honest feedback. They're looking for a perfect blend of flavor, tenderness, and smokiness, and they don't hold back when it comes to criticizing entries that fall short.

Trigg, who is known for his signature method of cooking brisket with a "Texas Crunch" bark, puts his skills to the test in the beef brisket category. But he faces stiff competition from Stone, who uses a unique method of cooking the brisket in a foil pan with a special seasoning mix.

In the pork ribs category, Trigg's use of a peach glaze sets him apart from the other pitmasters. But he has to contend with Stone's "double cut" ribs, which are twice as thick as a normal rib and offer a meatier bite.

As the competition heats up, tensions run high among the pitmasters. They trade tips and tricks, but also engage in some friendly trash talk. Despite the pressure, they remain focused on their ultimate goal: winning the shootout.

In the final round, the pitmasters face the mystery meat: lamb. This presents a unique challenge, as none of them have cooked lamb on such a large scale before. They use their experience and creativity to come up with unique flavor profiles and cooking techniques.

As the judges sample each entry and deliberate on the winner, the pitmasters wait anxiously for the final verdict. The winner takes home a hefty cash prize and, more importantly, bragging rights as the best pitmaster in the shootout.

Johnny Trigg's Shootout is a thrilling episode that showcases the unique talents and techniques of some of the best pitmasters in the world. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves barbecue or simply appreciates the art and science of cooking.