How to Build a BBQ Pit Fire

Summary: The barbecue pit is one of the earliest methods of slow cooking meat for whole-pork barbecuing, but it is used for beef and chicken as well. Much different than the grill, the barbecue pit slow-cooks and smokes meat so it is tender and delicious. Today there are many modern alternatives to the traditional barbecue pit, but the real thing is something to be savored. The idea is to make an oven in the ground. A barbecue pit is filled with dry wood to make a bed of hot coals, while wet wood is used to create a smoky flavor while the meat cooks.

So, how do you build a fire in a BBQ pit? What type of wood do you need, and where does it go? In this free video series, an expert will answer these questions and more. Learn to build a better fire for your barbecue by finding out what wood to use first, and what shape to build it in. Learn when to add your food and how to keep from getting burned. Follow these step-by-step instructions and your backyard BBQ pit will be roaring in no time!