Pigging Out
OTTUMWA, Iowa — On the campaign trail, food is judged less for how it tastes than for how easy it is for hungry reporters to scarf down while riding in the back of a speeding press van, trying to arrive on time for the next stump speech. That being said, your humble correspondent (and Southern food enthusiast) was shocked last night after biting into a concoction that had been advertised as a slow-cooked, pulled-pork barbecue sandwich. Somebody in the kitchen of that roadside restaurant in Ottumwa needs to take a trip to N.C. to see how it’s really done (my advice: start here). The “pulled pork” was more accurately described as mashed; the texture was wet and mushy, not tender and smoky. And the sandwich was drenched in a pasty red sauce that can only have come from a bottle.
Perhaps it was too optimistic to order barbecue in Iowa. But in a state with so many hog farms, one would have expected a better effort.
In fairness to Iowa chefs, though, they sure do know their corn. The corn chowder I had for lunch today was a creamy, corny taste of heaven.
Jim, welcome to the world of blogging.. it can be a bit addicting. Your title for the blog is perfect because it is a great mix of intelligent commentary, personal insight and journalistic wit. As for pulled pork BBQ, I too am a fan. Spending many spring vacations with my grandparents in NC I have had a few pulled pork sandwiches, and have not found one that can compare. I got a chuckle from the Honda VS Acura blog… although a honda accord probably gets better gas millage then the hybrid SUV. I would bet that the Hybrid is an “environmental prop.” that he is seen around town in picking up the kids at public school while fighting those big mean companies. Loved the story of the Edwards, Obama volunteers meeting...sounds like she has more of a true “fighting” spirit than her platitude selling husband.
Look forward to reading more.. completely enjoyed it. The quote of the moment is priceless.
MB
Mary Beth Leaton on 12/20/2007 (9:01 pm)
Your blog is my favorite thing on the Internet. There is hope for making sense of this crazy campaign show. Thanks.
Lola on 12/18/2007 (5:44 pm)