BBQ Brawl: To Meat … or Not to Meat (Food Network, Sunday, July 6, 2025)

BBQ Brawl

BBQ Brawl is serving up something unexpected this Sunday, July 6, at 9 PM ET on Food Network. The new episode, To Meat … or Not to Meat, forces the competing pitmasters out of their comfort zone with a veggie-focused challenge that will test their grilling prowess beyond traditional meats.

The hour kicks off with an advantage challenge dubbed Bake It Till They Make It, which, as the title suggests, requires the contestants to show off their baking skills—an interesting twist for a barbecue competition. But the main event throws an even bigger curveball: a meatless brawl. Captains Bobby Flay, Maneet Chauhan, and Antonia Lofaso will need to guide their teams through this unconventional cook-off, proving that flavor doesn’t always need animal protein.

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This challenge is a bold move for a show built on smoked ribs and brisket, and it highlights the evolving landscape of barbecue. Expect to see some seriously creative methods for infusing vegetables with that signature smoky taste, as well as some unexpected ingredient pairings.

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Andrew Martins, reviewer, recapper, deep diver, scifi specialist. Thinks Blakes 7 is better than Star Trek. Yes I do go to fan conventions and no I don't dress up. Well okay maybe I do a bit.