Driving back into Texas, we stopped in Carthage off Highway 59 at a little mom-and-pop joint called Circle B Smokehouse. I wanted to see what BBQ on the other side of the state tastes like because, let’s be honest, everyone posts reviews of the same handful of places. I like getting off the beaten path and shining a spotlight on what could be a true diamond in the rough.
As soon as we walked in, I was greeted by the owner. I asked how business had been in a small town like Carthage, and just like everywhere else these days, she said it was slow but they were making it.
I went with a three-meat plate with brisket, ribs, and jalapeño cheese sausage, with potato salad and mac and cheese for the sides.
Being the BBQ guy that I am, I asked what grade of brisket they were using. With beef prices where they are, she said Prime just wasn’t affordable anymore, so they cook Select.
I’ll tell you this… that brisket was pretty damn good. Moist, cooked perfectly, with a beautiful salt-and-pepper bark and just the right amount of smoke. Truth is, I learned at a Texas A&M brisket camp that most people can’t tell the difference between Select, Choice, and Prime once it’s cooked right. And let’s face it, a lot of folks drown it in BBQ sauce anyway.
The ribs were next, and the rub was spot on—salt, pepper, and just enough garlic and onion to let the pork and smoke do the talking. The jalapeño cheese sausage had a great kick, and the cheese melted in your mouth.
There honestly wasn’t a bad bite on the plate. Even the sides delivered.
To top it off, the prices beat what you’d pay in the big city. A three-meat plate with two sides was only $24 before tax.
If you’re driving into or out of Texas on Highway 59, make the stop in Carthage and check out Circle B Smokehouse.
Tell them Smokin Willy T sent you.
