ANTHONY, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — KFOX14 asked viewers on social media what food best represents Independence Day, and one answer stood out above the rest — BBQ.

At Rollin’ Smoke BBQ in Anthony, Texas, owner Jesus Carrasco said the holiday is one of the busiest times of the year.

Customers began placing orders days in advance to make sure they have barbecue ready for their celebrations.

Carrasco specializes in Texas-style barbecue, a craft he says has taken years to perfect.

“I use a Texas pit where the heat is over there and it rotates this way,” Carrasco said.

Carrasco showed us that the secret ingredient to making great barbecue is patience.

Victoria Balderrama reports on how one Borderland restaurant makes Texas-style BBQ for the Fourth of July.

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“It’s not easy. It’s a long process. Meat takes a long time to cook to that perfection,” Carrasco said.

Barbecue varies by region, from Texas brisket to Carolina pulled pork to Kansas City ribs; it does have one thing in common.

“A lot of people tell me it brings people in and that way you gather and eat at a table, and you share that craft,” Carrasco said.

For many families, those shared meals become lasting Fourth of July memories alongside parades and fireworks.

“I’m not a veteran, but I thank America because this is why I’m here living the dream and I have the opportunity to do what I do every day, and I love it,” Carrasco said.

Whether it’s brisket, burgers, or ribs, a shared meal creates moments of connection that can be just as memorable as fireworks.

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