Ep 6. Cooking It Old School

In the sixth episode of The American Barbecue Showdown season 1, titled "Cooking It Old School," the six remaining contestants are challenged to tap into their ancestral roots by re-creating classic barbecue dishes from their family's past. Host Rutledge Wood and judges Melissa Cookston and Kevin Bludso encourage the competitors to channel their heritage and infuse their dishes with tradition and nostalgia.

The contestants have to dig deep and share their personal stories with the judges, explaining the significance of their chosen dishes and the family traditions that inspired them. The pressure is on as the contestants must strike the perfect balance between honoring their heritage and presenting a modern twist on the classic dishes.

Throughout the episode, the judges offer guidance and critique, urging the contestants to elevate their flavor profiles and techniques while keeping the essence of the traditional barbecue alive. The contestants showcase their culinary skills as they prepare classic barbecue dishes such as brisket, pulled pork, and ribs.

As always, the judges taste each dish and provide feedback before selecting a winner for the challenge. The high-stakes environment leads to moments of tension and drama as the contestants strive to impress the judges and stay in the competition.

In addition to the main challenge, the episode features a mini-challenge in which the contestants must create their own blend of spices. They are challenged to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create a unique blend that will set them apart from the competition.

The American Barbecue Showdown season 1 episode 6 "Cooking It Old School" is an emotional and heartfelt tribute to the rich cultural and familial traditions that form the backbone of American barbecue. The contestants demonstrate their passion, skill, and ingenuity as they strive to preserve and evolve the classic barbecue dishes that have been passed down through the generations.