Houston Rodeo BBQ Cookoff opens, representing the resilience of many residents

“I’ve told someone before, I’m happier than a pig in the mud,” said Grant Pinkerton, owner of Pinkerton’s Barbeque!

“So emotional. We’re back!” Zinat Ahmed with Cotton Holdings said. That company is the main sponsor of the dish.

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner was also present.

“For the city of Houston and this region, it represents our resilience,” said Turner.

Two hundred and fifty unique tents, cowboy hats, flags of Texas pride, and all the smokers have returned to the NRG park.

“We have 250 lb and 160 lb whole pigs on the pit,” says Pinkerton. “We smoked them for 24 hours.

As for his odds in the competition, Pinkerton said he never overestimated himself.

“We were always in there to get it,” says Lance Cavazos of the Tejas Barbocoa tent.

A chef is serving a Brazilian and Texas fusion barbecue.

“This time you’ll see us on stage,” Bruno Oliveira told Pitmasters Brazil. “That’s it. We bring a tropical flavor to the grill.”

The smoker at the Warpig BBQ tent is a visual reminder that all cooking has a cause.

“We raise money back to the Lone Survivor Foundation and a number of other charities for veterans. So everywhere we go, it’s a tribute,” said Dennis Butterworth.

However, people remember that this big event is not only about good food.

“It’s all about the kids. There’s a bigger reason. We’re all here for the food, the fun, and to see each other. But, it’s all about giving back,” Ahmed said.

“What the city needs right now is some baked goods, some beans, some potato salad and some delicious peaches. That’s what we need right now to lift people’s spirits.” Turner said.

There’s a lot to go around on the weekend. The grand champion will be announced on Saturday. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo has raised over $20 million for scholarships in 2022.

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