Tuffy Stone
BBQ Pitmaster
Intro
Introducing Tuffy Stone—Six-time World Barbecue Champion, Barbecue Hall of Fame inductee, acclaimed author, judge and co-host of top BBQ shows. His path is anything but ordinary: from serving in the Marine Corps, to training as a French sous chef, to becoming a true icon in the world of barbecue. Cooking over fire has taken him around the globe, from feeding troops in Kuwait, to teaching in Australia and Brazil, and inspiring thousands along the way. Tuffy and his wife, Leslie, started A Sharper Palate Catering Company in 1993, which continues to serve their community. Tuffy's line of barbecue seasonings and sauces, can be found on shelves all over the world. When he's not behind the pit, you’ll find him fishing, listening to tunes, or kayaking out on the water. We’re proud to welcome Tuffy to the Turtlebox family!
Q&A
What is your profession? Did you always know this is what you would end up doing or was it something you “stumbled into”?
I am a chef, pitmaster, author and cooking teacher. I kind of stumbled into my profession. After doing 4 years of active duty in the Marine Corps, I moved to Richmond, Virginia to attend college. I needed a job to pay bills, while going to school. I loved to cook and bake as a hobby, so I ended up working for free, initially, in a French kitchen. Long story, as that did not pay my bills, so I also had to work at another restaurant, where I got paid. Eventually I grew my skills in the kitchen and Chef Alain started to pay me. Over time, I grew to his sous chef and partner, and I found my passion.
Favorite movie?
“Miracle on 34th Street”, because my wife Leslie loves it and she has watched it on Christmas day, every year, since we have been together.
Favorite book?
Some of my favorite authors are Jim Harrison, Thomas McGuane, Guy de la Valdene, James Crumley, and John D MacDonald.
Most inspiring quote, piece of art, saying, or advice that has impacted the way you live today?
I have lots of sayings that I lean into. “Better to be looking at it, than looking for it!”, “The harder I work, the luckier I get.”, and “Mise en Place”. I have so many more…
When you’re not working, what are you doing for fun?
Fishing, playing vinyl records, or out fishing on our kayaks.
Coolest place you’ve ever traveled?
Sweden, Australia, New Zealand…. so many amazing places. Cooking with fire has taken me all over the world.
Bucket list destination you haven’t been yet?
I want to fly fish in the flats for permit, bonefish and such. I have been fly fishing since I was 12 but never fished for bonefish or permit with a fly.
You’re stranded on a deserted island - who is coming with you and why?
My wife. She kicks ass. We have been married for almost 35 years, and we have catered some huge events. We work well together.
You get to have drinks with anyone (dead or alive) - who are you calling?
My grandmother, Florence. I would love to catch up. She taught me how to fish. Gave me some of her sourdough starter, when I became interested in baking bread. I use her cutting board, every day, when I am home.
What advice would you give an 18-year-old that wants to do what you do?
Find a good mentor, work hard and get better.
Any guilty pleasures?
Bourbon and cookies.
Favorite wild meat/fish to eat? And in what kind of meal do you prepare it/eat it?
We often fish for redfish and speckled trout. Mostly we catch and release, but occasionally we keep a red. Grilled and pandered in cast iron. I like to grill dove breasts wrapped in bacon and shishitos and finished with a chipotle white BBQ sauce. I make a great goose pastrami dish with wilted cabbage and sun-dried cherries.
What’s your favorite element of Turtlebox?
Whether it is my grill, knife, fishing rod, cooler or speaker. These are tools for me. They need to be dependable. I often cook outside. My Turtlebox speakers are rugged and have a great sound stage. Makes cooking outside even more fun.
How do you use your Turtlebox?
On my kayak, when fishing near the Chesapeake. When I am grilling and smoking outside. When I am on the beach or just cleaning the garage.
Name the most famous contact in your phone?
Tootsie!
