Get 3 months of Audible free - Get this deal
Prime Member Exclusive Offer
3 months free
$0.00
  • For a limited time, get Audible Premium Plus free for 3 months.
  • Pick 1 audiobook a month from our unmatched collection—yours to keep (you will use your first credit now).
  • Listen all you want to thousands of included audiobooks, podcasts, and Originals.
  • Auto-renews at $14.95/mo. after 3 months. Cancel online anytime.
Learn more about membership
Sold and delivered by Audible, an 鶹 company
List Price: $27.83
By completing your purchase, you agree to Audible's Conditions Of Use and 鶹's Privacy Notice. Tax where applicable.
Sold and delivered by Audible, an 鶹 company
  • Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling
  • To view this video, download

Meathead: The Science of Great Barbecue and Grilling Audible Audiobook – Unabridged

Meathead Goldwyn (Author), Greg Blonder PhD - with (Author), Jim Seybert (Narrator),
4.8 out of 5 stars 3,888 ratings

鶹

' + '' + decodeURIComponent(encodedIframeContent) + ''+''); doc.close(); } } this.iframeload = function () { var iframe = document.getElementById(iframeId); iframe.style.display = ''; setTimeout(function () { setIframeHeight(initialResizeCallback); }, 20); } function getDocHeight(doc) { var contentDiv = doc.getElementById("iframeContent"); var docHeight = 0; if(contentDiv){ docHeight = Math.max( contentDiv.scrollHeight, contentDiv.offsetHeight, contentDiv.clientHeight ); } return docHeight; } function setIframeHeight(resizeCallback) { var iframeDoc, iframe = document.getElementById(iframeId); iframeDoc = ((iframe.contentWindow && iframe.contentWindow.document) || iframe.contentDocument); if (iframeDoc) { var h = getDocHeight(iframeDoc); if (h && h != 0) { iframe.style.height = parseInt(h) + 'px'; if(typeof resizeCallback == "function") { resizeCallback(iframeId); } } else if (nTries < MAX_TRIES) { nTries++; setTimeout(function () { setIframeHeight(resizeCallback); }, 50); } } } this.resizeIframe = function(resizeCallback) { nTries = 0; setIframeHeight(resizeCallback); } } return DynamicIframe; });

For succulent results every time, nothing is more crucial than understanding the science behind the interaction of food, fire, heat, and smoke. This is the definitive guide to the concepts, methods, equipment, and accessories of barbecue and grilling. The founder and editor of the world's most popular BBQ and grilling website, amazingribs.com, Meathead Goldwyn applies the latest research to backyard cooking more than 100 thoroughly tested recipes.

With the help of physicist and food scientist Professor Greg Blonder, PhD, of Boston University, he explains why dry brining is better than wet brining; how marinades really work; why rubs shouldn't have salt in them; the importance of digital thermometers; why searing doesn't seal in juices; how salt penetrates but spices don't; when charcoal beats gas and when gas beats charcoal; how to calibrate and tune a grill or smoker; how to keep fish from sticking; cooking with logs; the strengths and weaknesses of the new pellet cookers; tricks for rotisserie cooking; why cooking whole animals is a bad idea; which grill grates are best; and why beer-can chicken is a waste of good beer and nowhere close to the best way to cook a bird.

Read more
Previous slide of product details
  1. Listening Length
    16 hours and 22 minutes
  2. Author
    Meathead Goldwyn, see all
  3. Narrator
    Jim Seybert
  4. Audible release date
    April 13 2021
  5. Language
    English
  6. Publisher
    Tantor Audio
  7. ASIN
    B091BHFKQS
  8. Version
    Unabridged
  9. Program Type
    Audiobook
Next slide of product details

Product details

Listening Length 16 hours and 22 minutes
Author Meathead Goldwyn, Greg Blonder PhD - with
Narrator Jim Seybert
Audible.ca Release Date April 13 2021
Publisher Tantor Audio
Program Type Audiobook
Version Unabridged
Language English
ASIN B091BHFKQS
鶹 Rank

Customer reviews

4.8 out of 5 stars
3,888 global ratings

Review this product

Share your thoughts with other customers
Write a customer review

Customers say

Customers find the content of the book outstanding, thorough, and eye-opening. They appreciate the recipe quality, saying it's full of really great recipes and a good source of cooking tips. Readers describe the book as readable, easy to understand, and scientifically based. They say it's well worth the investment and extremely useful. Readers also mention the step-by-step breakdowns and explanations of why everything works are helpful.

Select to learn more

ContentRecipe qualityReadabilityMyth-basedInformativeValueUsefulnessIdeas
79 customers mention "Content"79 positive0 negative

Customers find the content of the book outstanding, thorough, and eye-opening. They say the author really gets into the science of grilling and is invaluable to aspiring pitmasters. Readers also appreciate the nice writing style that incorporates the science into easy to understand principles.

"...Great book, very informative. Highly recommend." Read more

"...High quality book, overall a great book!" Read more

"...and awesome recipes and techniques with step-by-step breakdowns and explanations of why everything works...." Read more

"Love this book as much as I love his website. This is a must have for any Barbecue fan...." Read more

39 customers mention "Recipe quality"37 positive2 negative

Customers find the book well-written, full of really great recipes. They say it's an absolute must for your recipe book collection. Readers mention the book has vastly improved their BBQ skills and is invaluable to the aspiring pit master.

"...Yes there are recipes and good ones at that. Better yet, as it says, they break down the science behind every step of the process with valid points...." Read more

"...is more of a great resource than a cook book, but there are some great recipes and techniques inside." Read more

"Great recipes, use it all the time" Read more

"...The recipes in this book are great but the best part of the book is learning about the science of barbecue. Highly recommend this book!" Read more

10 customers mention "Readability"10 positive0 negative

Customers find the book readable, informative, and easy to understand. They appreciate the nice writing style and tips on how to BBQ like a pro.

"...Written in a form that is easy to understand...." Read more

"Recipe books are all over. However finding one that are user friendly and contains relevant, usable and repeatable recipes can be hard to find...." Read more

"...This book delivered and more. Scientifically based, very readable, enjoyable comments and graphics to rival any coffee table book." Read more

"...Nice writing style that incorporates the science into easy to understand principles." Read more

9 customers mention "Myth-based"9 positive0 negative

Customers find the book scientifically based. They say it blows a lot of myths out of the water with science.

"Great book, lots of useful insight! The thing I loved the most was 'myth busting' there is so much false beliefs that are shared among pitmasters...." Read more

"...This book delivered and more. Scientifically based, very readable, enjoyable comments and graphics to rival any coffee table book." Read more

"...cooking; ways to cook, equipment, tools and accessories, recipes, myths, explanations and reasons why things are done certain ways and a million..." Read more

"This is a most thorough book about all things BBQ. Debunking long lasting myths, scientifically unveiling what happens when fire, smoke and meat..." Read more

7 customers mention "Informative"7 positive0 negative

Customers find the book informative, saying it provides lots of information to help the first time cook. They also appreciate the detail provided by Meathead on how BBQ and smoking works.

"...Lots of info...." Read more

"...It has a good blend of pictures, information, and recipes. Be warned that it is mostly about the science of BBQ, not just recipes...." Read more

"...The thing I like the most about the book is the detail provided by Meathead, on how BBQ and smoking works, something I find missing in the other..." Read more

"...from the science behind how to make great BBQ, techniques, product information and recipes. It really helped answer the questions that I had." Read more

6 customers mention "Value"6 positive0 negative

Customers say the book is well worth the investment.

"...Love this book and well worth the money." Read more

"...If you use your BBQ a lot - get this book, well worth the investment." Read more

"...I wouldn't change a thing. Join the site. Well worth it and no, I don't work for or with these folks. They taught me the steps (secrets?)..." Read more

"...Well worth the time and money." Read more

5 customers mention "Usefulness"5 positive0 negative

Customers find the book extremely useful. They mention it contains relevant, usable, and repeatable recipes. Readers also appreciate the step-by-step breakdowns and explanations of why everything works.

"...but the small tips and tricks to make it easier and more effective were really helpful...." Read more

"...However finding one that are user friendly and contains relevant, usable and repeatable recipes can be hard to find...." Read more

"...recipes and techniques with step-by-step breakdowns and explanations of why everything works. Absolutely awesome. A must have." Read more

"So, sooo glad I found this book! Extremely useful! Absolutely recommending it:)" Read more

3 customers mention "Ideas"3 positive0 negative

Customers find the book has great recipes and ideas.

"Great resource with tons of good advice and ideas. Really enjoyed it from cover to cover." Read more

"Great ideas. Challenges basic BBQ beliefs and has changed how I BBQ...." Read more

"Great recipes and ideas" Read more

A Godsend of information.
5 out of 5 stars
A Godsend of information.
This is by far and away the most eye opening book ever for BBQ geeks and cooks in general. Yes there are recipes and good ones at that. Better yet, as it says, they break down the science behind every step of the process with valid points. This will elevate your skills once you learn a new level of control, which opens your eyes to the road of creativity. I wouldn't change a thing. Join the site. Well worth it and no, I don't work for or with these folks. They taught me the steps (secrets?) to making steak like this. Evenly medium rare on the inside, with a beautiful caramelized yummy sear.
Hide
Thank you for your feedback
Sorry, there was an error
Sorry we couldn't load the review

Top reviews from Canada

  • Brent W Murray
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great Book for a BBQ enthusiast
    Reviewed in Canada on June 30, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    Yum Yum!
    Helpful
     Report
  • Shardul
    5.0 out of 5 stars The bible for all meat scientists
    Reviewed in Canada on July 13, 2021
    Verified Purchase
    I read every page from the beginning to the end of the chapter called “Hardware”. The advice in those few chapters was immediately actionable and raised my BBQ game to a whole other level. I knew about and applied two-zone cooking and reverse searing before reading this book, but the small tips and tricks to make it easier and more effective were really helpful. In addition, I used to think smoking food was really complicated or required a lot of specialty equipment. Meathead breaks down the science of smoking effectively and teaches you how to harness the power of smoke with the tools you already have.

    I’ll be referencing this book for years to come as I do more and more of my cooking outdoors when possible. I didn’t really read past the chapter on “Hardware” since it’s mainly a collection of recipes and techniques on how to prepare rubs, sauces, and different types/cuts of meat. I’ll reference those as needed whenever I go to the butcher and try to cook something new.
    3 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • KD
    5.0 out of 5 stars Much more than recipes
    Reviewed in Canada on July 6, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    Purchased Meathead based on recommendation from a friend. Excellent book. It goes into the science of the how and why when grilling and barbecuing. Written in a form that is easy to understand. Goes way beyond a bunch of recipes, covers what to look for in equipment, accessories, covers the why meat cooks as it does on the BBQ and how to get the best outcome. I have tried a number of the techniques and recipes. The boss has been pleased and she doesn't say 'no' if I offer to try something! If you use your BBQ a lot - get this book, well worth the investment.
    Helpful
     Report
  • Anne B.
    5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book for avid barbecue grillers
    Reviewed in Canada on September 21, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    Don’t judge a book by its cover (or title!). I got this book for my husband who is an avid barbecuer with a keen interest in science. He absolutely adores this book and consults it often. While the cover is a little goofy, the author is excellent. He is well researched and loves good food. What more could you ask for! (His tips for bbq fish create the most incredibly decadent fish I’ve ever had. Absolutely delicious!)
    One person found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • David B.
    5.0 out of 5 stars The grilling cookbook that's not a cookbook
    Reviewed in Canada on December 27, 2016
    Verified Purchase
    Are you looking for a grilling cookbook that's more than just a cookbook? Here's the one for you. The science and the mystere of grilling and smoking is clearly explained, allowing you to sound like an experienced outdoor cooking pro after reading for only a couple hours (or less!)

    Most of this information is already available on AmazingRibs.com, Meathead's website. Do yourself a favour and buy this book. The information is organized much better (and edited much, much better, fortunately!)

    This book is definitely dedicated to smoking and grilling meat, no surprise there. It doesn't stick with just one type of system exclusively, but goes into some detail on the pros and cons of gas vs charcoal vs wood, etc. There are a number of great recipes for sauces and sides, as well. I am looking forward to trying the Baba Ganoush!

    The pages are of excellent quality. My one and only caution is this - this book includes fairly detailed pictures of meat cutting, including one section on whole roasting a suckling pig. It's not particularly objectionable, unless you prefer not to see the whole picture.
    6 people found this helpful
    Helpful
     Report
  • philip
    4.0 out of 5 stars Bought as a gift
    Reviewed in Canada on December 29, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    Recipe books are all over. However finding one that are user friendly and contains relevant, usable and repeatable recipes can be hard to find. The book is descriptive and shows potential. Have not had it long so true verdict is still out.
    Helpful
     Report
  • Sylvia
    5.0 out of 5 stars The Book is brand new in shrink wrap; came on time and is a great book!
    Reviewed in Canada on December 30, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    This is exactly what i was looking for. Came on time and was delivered in safe packaging (product was perfect condition).

    Great book, very informative.

    Highly recommend.
    Helpful
     Report
  • JMac001
    5.0 out of 5 stars A Very Helpful Book
    Reviewed in Canada on December 1, 2022
    Verified Purchase
    I thought I knew how to grill. I bought this book primarily for recipes. I learned lots more about grilling and got some great recipes. Meathead persuaded me to start using a meat thermometer. I had good results before but this was an invaluable suggestion which I now use in cooking all meats, whether on the grill, stove or in the oven.
    Helpful
     Report

Top reviews from other countries

Translate all reviews to English
  • Casimor
    5.0 out of 5 stars Les bases du fumoir par un passionné passionnant
    Reviewed in France on September 9, 2019
    Verified Purchase
    Apprendre l utilisation d un fumoir.
    La mise en page date un peu mais l essentiel voir plus est là.
    La pratique de l outil n est pas inné mais la lecture de cette ouvrage permet d accélérer l apprentissage de cet art.
    Report
  • Ken
    3.0 out of 5 stars Book arrived scratched and scuffed
    Reviewed in Singapore on September 27, 2024
    Verified Purchase
    Love the book, only hoped it had arrived in a better condition.
    Customer image
    Ken
    3.0 out of 5 stars
    Book arrived scratched and scuffed

    Reviewed in Singapore on September 27, 2024
    Love the book, only hoped it had arrived in a better condition.
    Images in this review
    Customer imageCustomer image
    Report
  • emily prellberg
    5.0 out of 5 stars Bbq Bible. Turned me into a backyard legend
    Reviewed in the United States on July 9, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    This isn’t just a cookbook—it’s a BBQ bible wrapped in smoke, science, and sass. “Meathead” breaks down the mysteries of grilling like a culinary mythbuster with a spatula. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Do I need to soak my wood chips?” or “Why did my brisket turn into a boot?”—this book has answers (and opinions).

    The recipes are mouthwatering, but it’s the why behind the how that makes this book a game-changer. You’ll walk away understanding heat zones, dry brining, and the secret to ribs that make grown men cry. Meathead mixes humor with hardcore food science, and somehow makes you feel like both a pitmaster and a food nerd in the best way possible.

    Whether you’re a newbie with a Weber or a seasoned smoke whisperer, this book belongs next to your grill—preferably with sauce stains and a cold drink nearby.

    Buy it. Use it. Watch your neighbors start showing up mysteriously around dinnertime.
    Report
  • Evangelos Moulas
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great grilling tricks
    Reviewed in Germany on June 3, 2025
    Verified Purchase
    Debunks many myths regarding grilling. Very nice and simple for the scientifically curious
    Report
  • Cliente 鶹
    5.0 out of 5 stars Muy buen libro!
    Reviewed in Spain on May 19, 2023
    Verified Purchase
    Muy buen libro si eres un amante de las barbacoas
    Report