Ep 3. Queens of 'Cue

In episode 3 of season 5 of Man, Fire, Food, titled "Queens of 'Cue," host Roger Mooking sets out to explore the world of female pitmasters. He visits two locations, each owned and operated by women who have become experts in the art of barbecue.

The first location is Cozy Corner Restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee, owned by Desiree Robinson. Cozy Corner has been a Memphis institution since it opened its doors in 1977, and has gained a reputation as one of the best barbecue spots in the city. Desiree's specialty is the Cornish hen, which she smokes until it is tender and juicy. Roger is impressed by the flavor and tenderness of the hen, and he also notes the unique sauce that Desiree uses to coat the meat. He watches as she mixes up a fresh batch of the sauce, and learns about the ingredients that make it so special.

Next, Roger heads to Brooklyn, New York, to visit Hometown Bar-B-Que, owned by Billy Durney and managed by Ash Fulk. Ash is one of the few female pitmasters in the country, and she has become a well-respected authority in the world of barbecue. She takes Roger on a tour of the restaurant's pit room, which houses multiple smokers and grills. Ash demonstrates how to smoke a brisket, and Roger is amazed by the amount of skill and attention to detail that goes into the process. He also samples some of Hometown's famous pulled pork, which is smoked for 14 hours and served with a tangy vinegar-based sauce.

Throughout the episode, Roger emphasizes the importance of diversity in the barbecue world, and highlights the contributions that women have made to the craft. He notes that many of the earliest barbecue pitmasters were women, and that their legacy lives on through the work of modern female pitmasters.

"Queens of 'Cue" is a celebration of the talent and dedication of two remarkable women, who have defied expectations and earned their place among the best in the barbecue business. Through their stories, Roger shows us that barbecue is not just about meat and smoke, but also about passion, creativity, and the commitment to excellence. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or just a barbecue enthusiast, this episode is sure to leave you inspired and hungry for more.