Adrian Miller on barbecue and Black culinary traditions

I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Adrian Miller, celebrated food writer, certified barbecue competition judge, and former White House advisor to President Bill Clinton.  His book, “Black Smoke: African Americans and the United States of Barbecue,” chronicles how Black barbecuers, pitmasters, and restauranteurs helped develop this cornerstone of American foodways and how they’re coming into their own today. 

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My culinary history writing career is inspired by John Egerton's book, “Southern Food: At Home, On the Road, In History.” In that book, Egerton pointed out that the tribute to African American culinary achievement had yet to be written.

My books focus on different aspects of African American food traditions that have received little or no attention.

I've read more than 3,000 oral histories from formerly enslaved people, 500 cookbooks, hundreds of history books, and countless newspaper and magazine articles. 

For the sake of research, I've eaten my way through the country. I've been to more than 200 barbecue and soul food restaurants in the U.S., Canada, Europe, and the Middle East. Yes, it's a rough job, but someone needs to do it.

Being a certified barbecue judge is the best conversation starter that I've ever had.

Cheers!

Adrian Miller is a food writer, James Beard Award winner, attorney, and certified barbecue judge who lives in Denver, Colorado. Adrian is featured on the Netflix hit show, “High on the Hog: How African Cuisine Transformed America.”

 Purchase Adrian Miller’s books on his website. 

Follow Adrian on Instagram

Adrian supports charitable work and is passionate about helping others. You can lend your support to one of Adrian's causes Stone Barns Center. 

Southern Glazer’s "Served Up" podcast has been elevating voices in the beverage alcohol industry since 2020. Now, with Eric Hemer, MW, MS, joining Bridget Albert as co-host, expect thought leadership, industry insights, exclusive interviews, and inspiring conversations that drive innovation. Join us weekly as co-hosts Bridget and Eric stir up the spirit of hospitality with lively conversations and plenty of personality.

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