More than 13,000 Twitter followers know him as @BBQsnob. Texas Monthly readers know him as journalism’s premier (and possibly only) barbecue editor. To his two children, Daniel Vaughn is known simply as “Dad.” However you slice it, the self-proclaimed “Barbecue Snob” is a big deal.
A Dallas transplant and former architect, Daniel is a long way from his home state of Ohio. How does an Ohioan become known as the “King of Texas Barbecue?” One bite at a time. After moving to the Lone Star State, Daniel’s infatuation with Texas barbecue led to Full Custom Gospel BBQ, a blog chronicling his visit to some 600 barbecue joints. Most recently, the Barbecue Snob added published author to his impressive – albeit atypical – résumé. Just released, The Prophets of Smoked Meat: A Journey Through Texas Barbecue is the debut title in the Anthony Bourdain Books line and a volume destined to take residence somewhere near the family Bible on bookshelves of meat lovers nationwide. We recently caught up with Daniel and asked him all about two of his favorite things: food and fatherhood.
Could you share the funniest Dad Moment that comes to mind?
My daughter was really sad to hear the news when I quit my job as an architect to become the Barbecue Editor for Texas Monthly. When I asked her what the problem was she said, “You don’t have a job now Daddy.” I said my job was barbecue now. Her response: “Barbecue isn’t a job!”
What’s your favorite meal to prepare for the family?
I love to make roast chicken at home. My kids love the meat, but they are especially in love with the chicken skin. When I ask if they want seconds they just say, “Can I have more skin?”
Are you training your children up to become fellow barbecue aficionados?
I’m not forcing anything on them, but they’re around barbecue a lot. My son would rather eat vegetables, but when my daughter sees a photo of brisket or ribs, she can identify the correct cut.
Imagine you have a day free of appointments, work and other commitments. How would you spend the day?
I’d make breakfast tacos to start the day. Then we’d play with Legos or puzzles, then ride bikes and tricycles around the cul-de-sac. We’d follow that up with a lunch of Asian dumplings. Then we’d be off to the park to play on the slides followed by ice cream and a nap. Pizza and a movie would be in the evening plans, and we’d wait until morning for baths so the kids could stay up later.
Dream Father’s Day gift?
Two weeks on the beach without a phone or access to the Internet.
What’s the one thing no one told you about being a parent (but you wish they had)?
I wish I’d been told how quickly kids start to develop their own path in life. My daughter and son are just four and two, but you can see just how much of their personality and outlook on life has already been forged. Much of that is just in the genes, but how we treat our children and how we treat others while they’re around starts making an impact so early. I wish I could be as observant as they are sometimes.
Published June 2013
