The Johnson’s across the street just invited you over for a barbecue, you begin to salivate thinking of the possibilities. Could they be barbecuing a pork shoulder, maybe it’s some ribs, oh, oh maybe a brisket. So, you wander on over and to your dismay you only see a gas grill with some burgers and dogs cooking away. What the heck is going on, they said barbecue, not grilled burgers and dogs.
Ah, but barbecue means different things to different people. The Johnson’s were using the word barbecue to mean a gathering in which people eat barbequed food. Even though technically the food that was prepared was not barbecued, many people still call these gatherings barbecues.
What is the difference between grilling and barbecuing then? Grilling is cooking for a short time directly over the heat source. Where as barbecuing is a slower process. Barbecuing is done slow at lower temperatures, with the heat source being indirect and often times smoke added.
Both grilling and barbecuing are enjoyable, and some amazing food can be made using both methods. So, if the Johnson’s want to call their gathering a barbecue, so be it, just as long as those burgers and dogs are good.