What is the ideal cooking temperature range for low and slow BBQ?

The ideal cooking temperature range for low and slow BBQ is 250°F to 300°F. This range allows the meat to cook thoroughly while breaking down tough connective tissues, resulting in tender and flavorful barbeque. Cooking at these temperatures also enables the development of a rich smoky flavor, which is a hallmark of low and slow BBQ methods.

At temperatures below this range, such as 150°F to 200°F, cooking takes much longer, and may lead to undercooked meat that does not achieve the desired tenderness. Conversely, cooking at 300°F to 350°F falls outside the low and slow method, creating a higher heat environment that can dry out the meat and yield a tougher texture rather than the intended tenderness. Thus, maintaining a temperature between 250°F and 300°F is crucial for achieving the best results in low and slow BBQ cooking techniques.