Choosing the Right Wood for Smoking: The Impact of Hickory and Others on Taste
When it comes to barbecuing, there’s a lot of talk about meat, rubs, marinades, smokers, grills, thermometers… you get the idea. But one thing that often is left until the last minute – usually when someone panics and grabs the nearest bag from a garden centre – is the wood. Big mistake. Huge. The type […]
Low and Slow Explained: The Science Behind Slow-Cooked Meats
If you’ve spent any time lurking around the BBQ scene – or just eavesdropping at a summer garden soiree – you’ve probably heard someone drop the sacred phrase: “low and slow.” Said with reverence. Maybe even a dramatic pause. It’s the cornerstone of proper barbecue. But what does it actually mean? And more importantly, why […]
Craft & Cleaver Beer Gardens: Your New Spring and Summer Go-To!
The best beer gardens in Hitchin and St. Albans When the sun comes out, there’s no better place to be than in a beer garden with a cold drink in hand and a plate piled high with BBQ. Lucky for you, both Craft & Cleaver venues – St Albans and Hitchin – boast their own […]
Is There a Difference Between Barbecuing, Grilling, and Smoking?
There absolutely is! You’d think people would agree on what’s what when it comes to cooking meat over fire. But no – welcome to the great barbecue debate. Barbecuing, grilling, and smoking are often thrown around like they’re the same thing, but trust us, they’re not. If you’ve ever had a heated argument with a […]
How Do You Keep BBQ Meat from Drying Out?
There’s a real art to it, but it pays back in dividends… There’s nothing worse than spending hours tending to your BBQ, only to bite into a piece of meat drier than the Sahara. You had dreams of juicy, smoky perfection, but instead, you’re gnawing on something that resembles a Doc Marten. So, how do […]
Looking Back On 2024!
As we bid a fond farewell to 2024 and look forward to ten years of Craft & Cleaver in 2025. I thought I’d take the opportunity to reflect on a great year and share some of the highs and lows of the past twelve months. A Year in numbers… We’ve had a great year at […]
A Guide to U.S. Barbecue Styles
When it comes to American food, nothing stirs up more passion than the different U.S. barbecue styles. From the mouth-watering smoke wafting off backyard grills to the livelybuzz of barbecue festivals, every region has its own way of doing things. In this guide, we’re diving headfirst into the bold and diverse world of U.S. barbecue […]
Spotlight on Adam, Owner of Craft & Cleaver
If there’s anyone who lives and breathes the essence of authentic barbecue, it’sAdam, the founder of Craft & Cleaver. His journey began in the early days of his chefcareer, with a deep love for cooking outdoors and a knack for tending coals. Adam’spath has been one of patience, precision, and a clear passion for treating […]