Have You Tried Arby's Brisket Sandwich? Now You Can Win One (contest ends May 13, 2014)

* Note that I am part of the national Arby's brisket project. They covered the meal and sent me a kit to make a brisket myself to compare. Products and compensation were in exchange for participation and a fair, honest post (as are all mine). They also provided the free sandwich tickets for the contest.  

Off to Arby's for a Smoky Brisket Sandwich

I'm part of the barbecue blogger team that Arby's asked to check out the Smoke House Brisket sandwich. So, today, my son and I took a break after exams and went out for lunch and got our brisket on.

Checking Out the Brisket Sandwich at Arby's

I love to eat and especially smoked foods. It's hard to get brisket here in pork country, so this was a treat.

The Smoke House brisket sandwich has thinly sliced brisket which is moist. There is a very fine bark on the edges and just a tiny sliver of the fat cap. I usually remove all fat at the table, but this was thin and did not detract (for me).

On top of the meat is smoked gouda cheese (one of my all time favorites) and then the house onion rings. I don't usually put things like that on my sandwiches, but this worked perfectly. Even if you think you don't like onion rings, the balance is better with them, and you don't get a big onion ring flavor.

The sandwich was lightly sauced with mayonnaise and barbecue sauce. I could not detect the mayo. The flavor is sweet and tasty. I like heat so I added the Arby's horsey sauce (horseradish). Do a taste test on that first, because it might be too hot for some. I'd call it a low heat, but tastes vary.

Up Close and Personal with the Arby's Brisket Meal

I really enjoyed my meal. It did not taste like my brisket. It did not taste like any I've had. But, I've never had two briskets that tasted the same. Brisket is a slow cook meat, and the time, rubs, sauces and so on make every smoker's brisket a little different. Frankly I'm surprised a fast food restaurant could pull off one of the harder meats to get right. And, they did a very fine brisket sandwich. It was really tasty.

Want To Try Arby's Brisket Sandwich?

Want to try this out yourself and for free with a fun contest? Arby's gave me two free brisket sandwich coupons. If you leave a comment on my blog and any way to let you know if you win, then two lucky readers can get a brisket sandwich for free with the contest ending on May 13 at midnight EST. Can't beat that.

If you want extra entries for the giveaway (some readers ask), you can do the following and leave a separate note on the blog for more slips in the hat:

- Like Arby's FB page
- Share the contest on FB
- Tweet the contest
- Google+ about the contest
- Get a friend to enter (and have them say blank - your name - sent me)

There it is. Easy as can be. No hoops. No spam. Just leave a comment and if you want to do extra entries, that's fine too.

____________

I'd also like to note that our local Arby's in Salisbury, NC was fabulous. You know it's kind of odd when a woman comes in and starts taking photos. I spoke to the cashier who got the manager to double check beforehand. Both women were extremely nice and helpful when I explained about the blogger project and were excited about the idea. I'd also note the location was ultra clean including the bathroom. It's across town, but I'll get out there more. They really were doing an extra nice job across the board.   

Goumet Giveaway Marukan Rice Vinegars SUPER NICE (ends Sat May 10 2014 at midnight EST)

 Marukan Premium Rice Vinegars

The UPS man came by today with a beautiful package. Marukan had emailed to see if I'd like to try out their gourmet rice vinegars developed in Japan and in business since 1649. They offered me a free set and one for readers if I'd try them out and post and honest review. 

I lived in Japan for a year or so, and even though this is crunch time at work, I wanted to check out these rice vinegars. 

Marukan uses ancient and slow methods to develop the flavors on the vinegars with all natural, certified organic ingredients. They are also certified with no GMOs and are Kosher too. All this means lower acidity so a mellow vinegar kick without making you pucker up like many of the cheap ones. 

These vinegars are quite hot with the high end chefs and TV celebrities like Martha Stewart, Hoda Kotb, Marie Oser, and Walter Staib. 

The pack looks fit for a superstar as you can see below:

 You can win this wonderful set which includes:

• MARUKAN GENUINE BREWED Rice Vinegar: This exceptional artisan vinegar takes 2 months to brew in the traditional way with NO sodium and all natural ingredients to heighten the flavor of any recipe. The delicate acidity is versatile and excellent as an addition not only to Japanese but also Chinese, European or American dishes. You can use it straight from the bottle, or as an ingredient for salad dressing and sushi rice. This product contains NO sodium, fat, sugar, artificial ingredients or calories. Naturally gluten free and non-GMO.

• MARUKAN SEASONED GOURMET Rice Vinegar: Marukan's best-seller for sweeter marinades and more flavorful dressings, dips and sauces. We have more recipes featuring our Seasoned Gourmet than any other variety. Blended with care according to Marukan's very own processing technique, it can also be used in preparing delicious sushi rice at home by simply mix 1 oz. Marukan Seasoned Gourmet with each cup of steamed short-grained rice. Because it does not contain any fat, it also serves as a healthy ingredient for marinades by mixing it with your choice of oil or creamy dressing. Non-GMO and naturally gluten and fat free. 

  

• MARUKAN All Natural PONZU – Premium Soy Dressing with Sudachi Citrus: Our premium ponzu is made from natural sudachi lime extract imported from Japan. The ponzu is a perfect match for steak and BBQ, but it can also be used as an alternative to regular soy sauce for almost any dish. The sudachi citrus is high in vitamin C with a refreshing citrus flavor. This 100% vegan ponzu contains gluten.

How Can You Win This Special Prize?

Just comment here on the post to be entered in the Barbecue Master giveaway which will end on Saturday night at midnight for a Mother's Day treat for someone who loves to grill or rock it out in the kitchen (May 10, 2014).

Do leave me some clue as to how to find you if you win. It can be an email or something like your FB name if you're on my list. I only use this data to send in the winning name, so Marukan can mail the package to you. 

Extra Entries for the Barbecue Master Marukan Giveaway

Some readers like extra entries. Do any of the following and just add as a new comment, so I'll get your extra slip in.

- Share the contest link on FB.

- Share the contest link on Twitter.

- Share the contest giveaway on Google+.

- Post the contest and link on your blog if you have one. 

You don't have to do any of the extras. A comment gets you entered. These are just extra entries if you like to do that.  

 Where Can You See or Buy Marukan Products?

Where to Buy: Find Marukan in the Asian foods section or wherever fine vinegars are sold, including major retailers nationwide like Whole Foods, Ralphs, Smart& Final, Stater Bros, Jons, Albertsons.

You can also check out the Marukan company at these spaces:

Website:             http:// www.marukan-usa.com

Facebook:            https://www.facebook.com/MarukanVinegar

Twitter:                    https://twitter.com/marukanvinegar

Tumblr:           http://marukanvinegar.tumblr.com

 Good Luck! This would be a great Mother's Day Surprise. 

The winner is Mary. CONGRATULATIONS!

BBQ Grilling Giveaway - Wonderful Ted Reader Cookbook and Spices/Sauces (ends May 5, 2014)

New Cookbook Out from Ted Reader - You Could Win It!

Kara got in touch with me about Ted Reader's newest cookbook. She didn't have to sell me. I've known Teddy for a while. We're Facebook friends, and someone gave me some of his sauces some time back. His pineapple barbecue sauce was so yummy and smelled so good the people grilling beside me at the beach came over to ask why our food smelled so much better. I still love that Ted Reader pineapple sauce.

If you'd like to see what the buzz is with this Canadian BBQ guru, then now is your chance. Kara sent me Gastro Grilling to check out and some grilling seasoning (and a review - honest good or bad). You can get the book and some flavorings too free with my latest Barbecue Master giveaway sponsored by Ted and his hard working marketing group.

How Do You Enter to Win the BBQ CookBook and Seasonings?

I keep my contests low tech and no spam. I don't like to jump through hoops, and I hate spam, so I don't do that to my readers (and thank you all for making my Barbecue Master blog so successful).

Just comment in my comment section and tell me why you'd like to win this great prize. Also leave some way to let you know if you win. I don't need your firstborn, but be sure I have some clue as far as getting in touch. I don't add you to lists or anything other than contact the winner and the company who will send the prize directly, so it doesn't get run through the mail twice.

Extra Entries?

Some onliners love extra entries, so I'll add a couple of those too. You don't have to do anything extra. The comment gets your name in the hat. These extras just give you extra slips. Do add a new comment to tell me about extra entries. I don't want you having to PM or hashtag me all over the internet. Just put something like: Extra entry - tweeted etc. (and again some kind of contact).

So, here's what you can do . . .

1. Visit Ted Readers FB page and let me know what you see. I first said to leave a "Cyndi said hi" message on his page, but he is maxed on the FB limit.
2. Facebook my contest link.
3. Tweet the barbecue gift contest.
4. Google + the contest. Does anyone G plus? Some I'm sure.
5.  One selfish request - subscribe to my blog, so you won't miss out on future contests. That's on the right bar. I don't see the info. Promise. You get an email by way of Google, but you can see from the title if you're interested (which I hope you are).

That gives you the basic comment entry and five more if you are the high achiever type. It only takes one, and I've certainly had a one entry person win.

How Long Do You Have?

My last class day at the college is May 5th (2014) at 10 pm EST, so I'll make that the deadline, so I can celebrate along with you. 

*Please not that I am not an auto blogger. I check every comment, so you won't see your comment immediately, unless I'm online. I'm not a control freak. If you saw some of the dirty stuff and spam people put up, you would know why I check to make sure things on my blog are the real deal. I'll make sure you're entered, but it may take me a few hours especially if I'm sleeping. I love my ZZZZs.

Good luck. This is a very nice free giveaway prize!  

Fabulous Wilton Armetale BBQ Grill Griddle Contest Super Bowl Day 2014

 Win This Great GrillWare Griddle on Super Bowl Sunday 2014

It's been a while since I've done a grilling giveaway contest, but when Kristen asked me about a free Grillware Griddle for a lucky reader of Barbecue Master, I had to jump on that. I have one of the companies woks which I love, so I know the quality on these pieces. Top notch.

I do not get any compensation for the contest. I am on tap to get and review the chili grilling pot from GG and excited about that, but the contest is flat out a gift from the company to the winning reader - no strings. 

I always try to keep my contests simple and non-invasive for readers. In this case, I ask that you visit Grillware Griddle and then tell me in comments. You can visit and like or share at the following:

Facebook Grillware Griddle

Twitter Grillware Griddle

Pinterest Grillware Griddle

Tell me which you did and add the link in my comments. And, yes, you can do all three for three entries. Please do a new comment for each, so it's easier to make the slips for drawing on Super Bowl Sunday. That's the end time of the contest - the end of the game 2014. I wanted to get this one on out there with such a nice piece, but you can enter up until the last second of the game.

Be sure that you include some way to get in touch with your entry. I don't keep and collect your contact data. I just need some way to get in touch if you win. Then, the company will send out the griddle. That's the only direct contact data and only on the winner.

If you're wondering why this griddle is so special, it's a high end metal. It is a lot like cast iron with the great heat retention, but it does not require a lot of special care and does not rust. My wok is slightly darker than when I got it from being on the grill, but it is not real dark. It still looks a lot like the brand new photo.

Do note that you're not supposed to put the griddle in the dishwasher. I don't have one, and I would not do that to high end grilling items.

If you want to expand your grilling, a griddle is a wonderful addition. The Wilton Armetale is top of the line. You will enjoy this grilling accessory for years to come.

Do note that I check my comments. If I don't, I get spam and other bad stuff. My readers do not want to see that. So, you won't see your entry until I click in and check and press post. I wish I did not have to do that, but if I don't check, you would see some really ugly stuff. All real people get clicked in. Thanks.

Win a 6-pack of Garland Jack's Secret Six BBQ Sauces - ends 6-8-2013

Win - Garland Jack's Secret Six

If Your Favorite Part of BBQ Isn't Eating, You're Doing it Wrong!

 

 

 

THE WINNER OF THIS CONTEST WAS RICHARD FROM GEORGIA! CONGRATS! KEEP WATCHING. I DO CONTESTS OFF AND ON. THANKS - CYNDI

It's been a while since I did a barbecue sauce giveaway contest, and I'm excited about this one - Garland Jack's Secret Six and a t-shirt to boot.

Garland Jack's uses only sugar in these rich barbecue sauces, and you really can taste the difference.

It's a cool collection with the Original flavor, Country Honey, Hickory Spice, Squealin’ Hot, Sweet Brown Sugar and Sweet n’ Sticky Molasses. Something for every barbecue lover. Gotta love the variety, and they are all included in the giveaway contest.

How to Enter to Win The Barbecue Sauce Collection and Shirt

As always, I keep my giveaway contests simple, and I NEVER spam you. I don't collect your data. I just contact the winner.

To enter, just leave a comment telling me which Garland Jack's barbecue sauce you think you and your crowd would love best and why. Check out Garland Jack's BBQ sauce site if you need more information to decide.

Some people like extra entry chances, so you can share the post on FB, Twitter, Google + or other social media outlets for extra entries. Stop back and let me know where you shared, so I can add the extra slip(s) in the draw bucket. Do a new post for each entry, although I'll read them all and add if someone forgets.

I will need some way to get in touch, so include something so that I can follow up on the winning slip. Usually this is an email, but if you're on any of my social media lists, you can leave a handle and where to look you up.

Contest Details for Free Barbecue Sauce

I'll take entries through June 8th (2013) at 10 pm EST and draw either late on Saturday or on Sunday.

I do make paper slips and put them in a hat or bucket, and a family member or neighbor (not connected to the blog in any way) draws.

I'll contact the winner, and Garland Jack's will send out the prize. It's a nice big box with the full line of sauces and a t-shirt. I'm hosting, but the company takes care of the prize. Thanks Garland Jack's.

I also got the six pack of sauces, but I'm not paid to do a contest. I just enjoy seeing readers get a chance to try out some of the great products I try out at home.

Get back by Tuesday June 11th (2013), or I'll need to draw another name. I've never had to do a second draw, but it makes sense to have a time on that.

Good Luck! This is a really great prize and just in time for summer grilling season.

Giveaway Contest - Apron, Timer, and Alexia Bread (your choice) - Ends 3-9-2013

Win Alexia Bread Plus an Apron and Kitchen Timer

Elizabeth contacted me and asked if I'd like to try out Alexia bread and then host a contest if I liked the all natural bread. I was game, and she sent out sweet potato bread which I'd never had. I fell in love with this bread which is yummy enough to be dessert.

Although I grilled my Alexia rolls, they were not specifically designed for grilling. So, if you don't grill, don't click out on me. You can do these delicious rolls in your oven. That's what you'll see on the directions. Just a few minutes and nice hot bread. Got to love that.

Since the rolls were a thumbs up here, I'm rolling with the contest. I did get a bag of rolls to check out, but that's all. The contest is just a bonus for readers.

The Alexia Contest Prize Is:

· One free Alexia apron
· One coupon for a free Alexia product - so you get to pick
· One free Alexia kitchen timer


How Do You Enter?

I keep my contests simple, and I don't track your information or spam you.

Just leave a comment and some way to get in contact if you win. I just get in touch to get your snail mail, so Alexia can send you the prize. Easy as that.

Some people like extra entries on contests giveaways, so if you FaceBook or Twitter this post so others can have a chance at some great rolls, then do that and then post that you did either or both. Do a new post for each entry please, so I make sure to get them all. I'm still low tech and put your names on slips of paper and have a family member pull a name.

The contest ends 3-9-2013 with the winner contacted 3-10 (my last day of break), so be sure to get entered quick!

Free Rolls or Your Choice of Alexia All Natural Foods

With your coupon, you get to pick your Alexia natural food product. I loved the sweet potato rolls. They are sweet, so I'd call them right at dessert. Yum! But, you can pick what you want, since you get a free coupon and decide for yourself.

Follow Up: Jan is the winner of the contest. Congratulations Jan and enjoy your goodies from Alexia!

Heinz 57 Tailgate Giveaway - Win a Great Free Prize (11-4-2012 drawing)

 

Heinz 57 Tailgate Prize Pack - Enter to Win

Stephanie emailed to see if I'd like to try out some new Heinz 57 products and if I thought my readers would enjoy a contest to win a Heinz tailgate prize.

I grew up with Heinz 57, and the steak sauce always makes me think of my childhood. I didn't realize they'd come out with some new sauces - one with honey and one with Lea & Perkins Worchestershire sauce. Yum. Good combinations to add some variety to a familiar and fun sauce line.

The prize pack includes the three Heinz 57 sauces as well as a tailgate blanket, grill tool set, drink huggie, and a cookbook with outdoor grilling recipes.

How Can You Enter to Win the Heinz Tailgate Giveaway?

I keep my contests very simple. You just enter (with no spam to follow). Then, I have a family member, friend, or neighbor draw a name from the slips I make with the entries.

To enter, just comment here on the blog and tell me why you'd like to win this fun prize pack. You can comment once per day through noon on November 4, 2012. I do have moderation on the blog, so you don't get naughty links (whew - a lot of people like to put those in comments sadly). I do check back often, so if you don't see your post immediately, know that I'll get it cleared quickly.

Some folks like to do extra entries, so if you Facebook the link or Tweet it, then I'll add an extra slip for doing either or two entries for both. Just be sure to leave a message here if you do the extras. I don't want to miss any of your entries.

Remember also to leave some way to get in touch. I don't collect or use your contact data, but I need some way to get in touch if you're the winner. Then, I send just the winning name in with a snail mail address so that the prize can be mailed to you from Heinz.

Good luck! I'll post the winner after noon on 11-4-2012.

Win Grilling Gear and McCormick Grill Mates Prize Pack - Ends 6-25-2012

Win This Neat Grill Mates Prize Pack Provided By McCormick

I'm part of the Grillerhood this summer, and you can join the fun on Facebook where all the coolest grillers are hanging out and sharing grilling tips, recipes, and secrets. Just click over and see what the buzz is about at FB Grillerhood.

I could tell you about all the great information you'll find and about the HUGE prize one lucky person will win at the end of the summer compliments of McCormick . . . but it's more fun to explore.

As an added bonus, you can win the prize pack you see above. Just visit and "like" the Grillerhood and then leave me a comment telling me something cool you found on your visit. Also, give me some way to get in touch if you're the lucky winner of the McCormick grill apron, gear, and seasoning prize. (I don't keep or collect your data. I just send the winning entry over, so the prize can be mailed out.)

This grilling prize contest runs through June 25, 2012, so be sure to enter while you're thinking about it. And, you can enter once per day too. Just share something new each time you visit.

All entries get a slip in the hat, and one of my sons will draw the winning name on the 26th of June.

Yes. Simple as that! And, you will be sizzling on the grill this summer like I am with my snazzy new apron, tools, and new seasonings which I'm using to whip up some great grilled recipes.

Cyndi Smoking Up Some Good Grub with McCormick Gear and Grill Mates

Summer Fun BBQ Giveaway - Gear and GC - Enter by 7/10/2011

The 4th of July has come and gone, but the good times still roll with my Barbecue Master Summer Fun BBQ giveaway. I'm really excited about this contest and all the great prizes.

Prize Bundle List - WOW! - Great Stuff You Can Win

* Guy’s new cookbook- Guy Fieri Food: Cookin’ It, Livin’ It, Lovin’ It

* Four (4) big, bold BBQ sauces featured in Guy's BBQ Sampler Set

* The ultimate grilling tool set

* Digital thermometer

* $25 American Express gift card to purchase pork or what you want at a local retailer

Food: Cookin' It, Livin' It, Lovin' It by Guy Fieri

You'll find lots of inspiration in Guy Fieri's new cookbook. This is a big hardback cookbook packed full of yummy recipes and great photos.

Inside Guy Fieri's New Cookbook

Doesn't this Red Rocker Margarite Chicken look delicious? It's just one of many recipes in the cookbook ranging from poultry and seafood to pizza/pasta and dishes especially for kids.

Guy Fieri's New Line of Barbecue Sauces

In addition to the Fieri cookbook, you'll also get the sampler of his barbecue sauces. Readers may recall that I reviewed his North Carolina #6 which is a really nice sauce reflective of my area of the country.

Get Your Grill on with a Nice Barbecue Tool Set

When you're out at the grill saucing up some pork chops or chicken, you need tools. The gift bundle also includes this heavy duty BBQ tool collection.

Add a Digital Thermometer to that Prize Pack

To make sure that all your grilled foods come out perfect, you also get a ditial grill thermometer.

Hungry Yet?

Now, I'll bet you're hungry. You're in luck again, because this prize pack also includes a $25 gift card, so you can pick up some pork to fire up on the grill.

Holy cow (or perhaps I should say pig), that are some great prizes. And one lucky reader will get the whole package.

How to Enter the Barbecue Master Summer Fun Barbecue Giveaway

I'm a hobby barbecue blogger and like to keep these contests simple and low tech.

To enter, all you need to do is go to comments and give other readers a tip for grilling pork or if you don't have any tips, then just tell me why you'd like to win this giveaway prize pack. I do moderate the comments, so you don't get stuck reading spam or seeing naughty links. So, you won't see your comment immediatly. I have to get on and approve each one, but I do that often.

Yes. Simple as that. Just leave a comment, and you are entered. Be sure to leave some way to get in touch though, because I'll need to get a mailing address from the winner. That's the only data I gather or give out - just the winner and just so the prize can be mailed.

I know some readers like extra entry options, so if you Tweet, Facebook, or blog about the contest, you get extra slips in the hat. Just leave a comment letting me know that you added an extra entry. And, yes, you can do all three if you like.

The contest will run through July 10, 2011 EST 11:59 pm. The winner will be pulled on the 11th to start the week off really nice for a lucky Barbecue Master winner.

Winners will need to be from the U.S. due to shipping. I do appreciate my wonderful international readers and wish it were easier to ship out.

Note: The National Pork Board will be providing the gifts; however, I serve as the sponsor for the contest. I'm not connected with the Pork Council or any of the prize companies. I did get the same prize as being offered to a reader (those photos you see that I put up).

THANKS to everyone who entered and for the great pork grilling tips. My son drew the name, and Tom won this gift package. Congratulations Tom.

I don't keep contact lists, but there is an automatic email update over to the right side. Keep an eye out. I host giveaways now and then and enjoy having the chance to see someone win a nice gift like this package provided by the National Pork Board.

Win a Masterbuilt Barbecue Smoker - Giveaway Labor Day 2010

WIN! WIN! WIN!

Masterbuilt Barbecue Smoker Giveaway

Been thinking about making the leap to barbecue smoking? Well, here's your chance with a free Masterbuilt electric bbq smoker.


This 30 inch electric smoker has a window and an inside light, so you can see how the meat is doing without peeking. You get a push button temperature and time control and an easy load wood smoker box to the side.




I've not used this Masterbuilt smoker (and - no - I don't get one or anything else for hosting the giveaway), but I have a Masterbuilt Butterball turkey fryer that I wrote about last year. The fryer is well made and easy to use, and we've enjoyed frying turkeys and boiling Frogmore Stew. So, I'd expect that this would be a solid smoker and loads of fun. If you win, you can let me know!

What's the Catch?

My contests don't come with a catch. I just list several ways to enter and hopefully something for all readers (United States) to get a slip in the bucket. I do need some way to contact you if you win (only). That can be an email or your web site or blog contact or a twitter name that I can look up. I don't collect your information, and the company just asks for the winners address to send the prize. That's it. You really can get something for nothing - easy as that.

Required Entry

To enter, just check out the Masterbuilt outdoor products store and check out the recipes. This gives you a chance to see all the neat stuff they offer including the new smoker and also will get your taste buds cranking with the collection of barbecue recipes. Then, just let me know what recipe you would like to try out if you win the smoker. There is a comment section at the bottom. Fill that in, and you're set.

Contest Newbies - Better Directions

If you've not entered contests before, don't run off. I've had three emails asking exactly how to enter.

1. Click to the Masterbuilt page and find a recipe linked off the front page that catches your eye.

2. Come back here to Barbecue Master, because the contest is actually here and not off the company page.

3. Click on "comments" at the bottom of the post. You will see a colored link with x number of comments. That is the correct link, and the number changes with more entries. When you click that, go to the bottom of the comments pop up box, and you will see the little comment box to type in.

Or, if you came direct (and see the post plus other comments), go all the way to the bottom of the post below the last comment, and you will see a link called "submit a comment." Click that, and you will see the space to leave the message.

4. Fill out the little box with the name of the recipe and also some way to get in touch.

5. Fill out the little combo of numbers and letters that pop up. That just ensures that entries are real people and not robots putting up spam.

6. I check the comments before they go live so that the blog does not have dirty links and so on. So, you won't see your entry at first. I have to be on the computer and press publish, but I do that often.

7. The extra entries below are optional. They just get you more slips in the hat. Just repeat the above if you do any of the extra entries and let me know.

Extra Entries

Once you enter with the Masterbuilt recipe in comments (just the name of your top pick), then here are some additional entries if you like to increase your odds. Again, just let me know in comments about any add on entries to the giveaway.

1. Visit my web site Yes You Can Grill and then let me know what you'd like to see there that I've not posted yet. It's my "baby" and a work in progress.

2. Follow me on twitter - @cyndiallison If you look through my buddy list, you will find a lot of terrific grill folks and barbecue people including national champions. If you already follow me THANKS and let me know. I'll count that. Old friends are great friends!

3. Look over to the right and sign up for email updates here for Barbecue Master. Those are auto through Google, and all you'll get by email will be blog post updates. You'll get other contests, recipes, and reviews about grilling and barbecue that I post from time to time.

4. Share your favorite smoker recipe. I always enjoy doing new dishes on our smoker, and I'm sure other readers do too. You can just put the recpie in the comment section.

5. Tell us about your favorite Masterbuilt moment. It can be any product that you've used before. Mine, as I mentioned, would be with the turkey fryer. I also got to interview John MeLemore (the CEO of Masterbuilt), and that was a blast talking with him and getting to know the faces behind the product.

OK. That gives you 6 possible chances to enter and win a Masterbuilt Barbecue Smoker. So, what are you waiting for? This is an easy contest, and it's a great prize. I'd be excited to win a Masterbuilt smoker myself!

When Will The Winner Be Drawn?

I'll take Masterbuilt Smoker entries through 9 pm EST of Labor Day 9-6-2010 and then have the drawing. I think I'll have my son draw this time. He is an Eagle Scout and won a Carnegie medal for heroism. He's a good kid, and he's easy to find on a Monday night.

Home Stretch

I've been writing down entries and making sure I have all the multi ones in so that everyone gets all the chances possible. Whew! This one has taken more time than I expected, but I sure appreciate all the entries. Thanks so much for visiting and making this, by far, the biggest contest I've had on my blog. And, thanks again to Masterbuilt for sponsoring.



DRUM ROLL

I allowed an extra half hour past time to make sure all entries came in on my slow boat computer, and I went and got my kid who was doing his homework (good him) to draw the name . . .

The winner is: Oshawa Ogre

Well, blow me away! He won a Dean's Dip when my Mom drew several months back. He is one lucky duck. I mean, really, what are the odds that the first to enter would win the draw especially when those slips were jumbled and tossed more times than I can count?

Lord give me the luck of Oshawa Ogre. Amen!

Enter to Win at BBQ Grail Too

Larry is giving away a smoker on Barbecue Grail. So, be sure to enter there too. His contest runs through the 15th of September 2010, so you have a little extra time there.

Giveaway - Country Bob's BBQ All Purpose Sauce Contest - Ends 8-1-2010

Spice Up the End of Summer with Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce

WIN a Bottle of Country Bob's and See for Yourself

I just got a chance to try out a sample of Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce, and Al said that he'd be glad to sponsor a contest for two Barbecue Master readers to win a bottle each and see why I'm excited about this yummy sauce.

The first thing I did with Country Bob's sauce was grill up some pork chops, and they were sure good. Then, since Country Bob's is an all purpose sauce, I tried it on some French fries, fish sticks (long story), eggs, and even potato chips. Yum!

Really, you can use Country Bob's sauce as a condiment like ketchup, but it sure is yummier than ketchup. I'd love to just pass you the bottle, so you could see for yourself. But, since we have not reached that point in the virtual world, then two readers can have that chance to give this a try with an easy giveaway contest.

How to Enter to Win Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce

I like to keep my contests real simple and also try to make sure anyone who wants to enter can do so. I do not collect any information on folks who enter other than to get in touch to get a snail mail, so the company can send the prizes.

To enter, just leave a comment here on the blog and tell me what you like to dip. Now, keep it clean of course. This is a rated G space (-:

And, give me some way to get in contact. Otherwise, it's sure hard to send sauce.

If you have a blog link, that's great, or you can leave an email or a twitter account name. You can also comment and send me an email with contact info to write on your entry slip if you're not comfortable sharing info in public. My email is cyndiallison (at) gmail.com so that's an option if you're shy about your info.

Want to Up Your Odds with Extra Entries?

I know some readers enjoy having extra ways to enter contests, so once you post a comment, then I will add extra entry slips for any (or all) of the following:

1. You can follow me on Twitter where I go by cyndiallison if you like to chat about barbecue and family stuff. And, yes, if you already follow me, please just add the note in your comment. I will be glad to count that as well.

2. Copy and tweet: Win @CountryBobs sauce w @cyndiallison giveaway http://bit.ly/GiveawayCountryBobs

3. Sign up to the right for the Barbecue Master post email. That is a Google application, so I do not see the signs up, so that one is on the honor system, and I know grill folks are honorable.

4. Share the contest with a friend. When they post about a favorite food to dip, have them mention your name. If your buddy forgets to do so, then just add a post saying you sent them over. Sometimes friends forget. And, yes, you can do more than one "share with a friend" entry.

Note - On the extra entries, be sure to post in the comments so that I make sure to get your extra slips in the hat.

Drum Roll . . . And the Winner Will Be . . .

I write down all the entries and any extras and then have my Mom draw the names. She is low tech and does not play online, so she does not know the entrants. Plus, she is honest as the day is long.

We'll do the draw on August 1, 2010. So, two lucky readers can wind up the summer on a great note with a free bottle of Country Bob's All Purpose Sauce.

*Due to shipping costs, I can only take U.S. entries. Or, you could enter and gift your bottle to a U.S. buddy. I sure wish postal was global like the Internet. Maybe some day . . .

WOOT! WOOT!

I have the winners for the Country Bobs sauce.

The first winner is Gary of Cooking Outdoors. He just happens to be an outdoor cooking blogger, and he has a terrific blog. Be sure to check him out.

The second winner is Uncovering Food. She's a city girl with a passion for food and a lot of other stuff. She's a teacher (like me), and she covers a wide range of food topics. Check her out. She's got some neat stuff up as well.

Last Call - Win a Free Mug Cooler and BBQ Sauce Pack (June 20, 2009)

Today is the last day to enter the Mug Root Beer Father's Day Contest. Just click to the giveaway page and leave a comment. That's it. Very simple.

Tomorrow, the boys will shake up the names, and their Dad will pull the five (5) lucky winners who will all get the cooler you see above along with a Mug apron and the ingredients to make a root beer barbecue sauce.

I'll post the winners once I email the ones the boys' Dad pulls and let them know. Don't you just hate to be the last to know when you win something (-: So, the emails first . . . then the winners go up.

If you've been reading along here at Barbecue Master (the title at the top clicks you to the newest content), then you'll see where I made up a batch of the barbecue sauce and had a grilled ham and country ribs.

Know someone who rocks the grill or just enjoys grilling? Or, does this describe you? Feel free to enter. You can nominate your father or any other special man or woman in your life.

The contest wraps up at midnight tonight (June 20, 2009). That's EST, since I'm in NC.

Again - here's the page to enter and GOOD LUCK!

Giveaway for Father's Day 2009 - Thanks to Mug Root Beer - Cooler and BBQ Sauce Supplies

Mug Root Beer generously offered five giveaway packs for readers of Barbecue Master. And, for the record, they didn't ask for anything in return (not even a link - although I'll provide one so readers can check out more recipes and also see where the gifts came from).

Above, you'll see the cooler, apron, and the ingredients for the Mug Root Beer barbecue sauce which is listed at Mug Root Beer (under the recipe link). It all fits in there neatly. I'd just been jumbling in the kit and getting ready to make up some root beer barbeque sauce.

If you haven't entered to win one of the Mug Root Beer cooler packs, be sure to check the giveaway entry post. The deadline is June 20, 2009. You can always make up the sauce on your own, but getting the ingredients plus a cooler to keep is a sweet deal.


I got all the ingredients out to make the Mug Root Beer barbecue sauce. As you can see, they combine quite a few ingredients to come up with a unique and tasty barbecue sauce. Also, the amounts are generous, so we've had extras with the boys enjoying glasses of root beer all day.


The base for the barbcue sauce is . . . root beer . . . of course. Root beer, for anyone who doesn't know, is a soft drink. The name comes from the fact that it looks like a dark ale. The flavor is sweet with a herbal kind of bite.

This is also a soft drink that does not have caffeine, and it's also gluten free.


Although there are a number of ingredients in the sauce, the recipe is simple. Simply put all the ingredients in a sauce pan and simmer for around 20 minutes or until the sauce is reduced. In other words, you steam it down a bit until it thickens a bit. Do note that this is not a real thick sauce. It's a little thicker than what we call a barbecue mop around here.


Today I cranked up the Traeger wood pellet smoker grill. I put a small Hormel ham on for earlier in the day and some ribs on for later. The ham was pre-cooked, so I just spritzed it with apple juice for moisture and then sauced it about 10 minutes on each side right near the end of the grilling time. All total, the ham smoked on medium for around an hour.

We had two very nice barbecue meals today - first ham and then country style pork ribs.