Tim Schotzko was already closely — “but not obsessively” — following barbecue when he tasted the life-changing bite of brisket. And that’s when it turned from a backyard hobby to an obsession. Four and a half years after that inspirational bite of brisket and about a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, the Shotzkos opened Miss Huddy’s Barbecue, bringing a taste of central Texas to the people of the Palouse.

Nothing against your average grocery store—I’m grateful to have so many options in one place, something that would baffle my ancestors—but going to the farmer’s market has brought me so much closer to the natural world. I’m aware of the seasons in a way that I never was when I blindly bought zucchini all year. I know what it’s like to wait patiently for those first perfect blueberries, and to jump on the rhubarb before it’s gone. I can taste the difference when produce is in season.

It’s almost the Fourth of July. Is there anything cuter than kids in their red, white and blue, waving sparklers or American Flags? We sure don’t think so, and we’re here with some tips and tricks to help you plan a delicious and festive Independence Day.

Nothing says summer like enjoying good food, good music and good friends in the great outdoors. Crave! Spokane’s premier foodie event of the summer, offers just that and more! The largest culinary event in the Spokane area returns July 14-16, 2022 at the Centerplace Regional Event Center in Spokane Valley, gathering the best from the Spokane and Coeur d’Alene regions. Hosted under outdoor tents, attendees get to watch each chef and their team as they prepare tapas-style dishes inspired by each night’s theme.

You might remember summer days spent sucking all of the flavor out of a Popsicle, leaving only ice left on the stick, but it might surprise you to know this was part of the original marketing plan.

Settlers Creek in Coeur d’Alene boasts the largest collection of woodfired cooking equipment in the Western US, drawing events and visitors from around the country. Residents of the Inland Northwest are uniquely fortunate to have this mecca of wood-fired cookery in their collective backyard and can attend From the Ashes Idaho, a festival featuring Anthony DiBernardo of Swig & Swing and others showing off their BBQ skills each summer.

Forget Parsley, Sage, Rosemary and Thyme! Lovage, with its bright celery and anise notes, can be added to everything from salads to soups all season long!

BBQ is the flavor of the moment, the air filled with delicious scents of grilled meats, smoked fish, and even charred veggies. Meghan Fitzgerald tells us how to pair our favorite grilled dishes with the perfect glass of wine. Whether you feel like burgers or oysters, or just want to throw a couple pizzas on the grill, you’ll find a crisp white wine or a bold red variety to compliment your meal.