Joachim's A Man, a Can, a Plan
taught culinarily challenged men how to cook basic meals. He steps it up a notch with this slim yet comprehensive guide to cooking on asphalt. Much of Joachim's "why didn't I think of that?" type of advice will be of great use to its target audience (men whose focus lies equally on the game and dinner). The book includes a checklist of supplies and equipment; a list of "no-cook" items that may be bought in advance; suggestions for marinating meats in resealable plastic bags; and advice on guarding against wind. The provisions at a tailgate tend to involve beer and barbecue, and Joachim provides a range of recipes for the grill that include both: Brats in Beer, Beer-Mopped Brisket with Texas Barbecue Sauce, and Beer and Coffee Steaks, to name a few. He also includes recipes for foods that are ready to eat right from the cooler, like Grilled Corn Salad with Honey-Lime Dressing, and Buckeye Candy, a peanut butter and chocolate confection that's a favorite of Ohio State University Buckeye fans. Although the recipes are certainly inviting, it's the tailgate-specific advice that makes this book a champ. (Aug.)
