Who invented barbecue?

There is no single inventor of barbecue! It's a culinary tradition with roots stretching back centuries, influenced by various cultures and geographical locations.

Here's a breakdown of the history, making it difficult to pinpoint one inventor:

* Ancient Origins: The concept of cooking over fire dates back to prehistoric times. Many ancient civilizations, including the indigenous peoples of the Americas, used fire to cook and preserve meat.

* Caribbean Influence: The word "barbecue" itself comes from the Taíno word "barbacoa," referring to a raised wooden framework used by indigenous people in the Caribbean to smoke and dry meat.

* Spanish Colonization: When the Spanish colonized the Caribbean, they adopted the "barbacoa" technique and brought it to the Americas and Europe.

* American Evolution: In the Southern United States, barbecue evolved significantly. African slaves, who were brought to the region, brought their own cooking techniques, using wood smoke and slow cooking methods. The use of different sauces and rubs also developed over time.

* Regional Variations: Barbecue has developed distinct regional styles across the United States, each with its own unique methods, sauces, and cuts of meat. For example, Texas barbecue emphasizes brisket and dry rubs, while Carolina barbecue is known for its vinegar-based sauces and pulled pork.

So, while there's no single "inventor" of barbecue, it's a rich culinary tradition that has been shaped and refined by generations of people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.