The Post-BBQ Ponder: A Gastronomic Aftermath
Ah, the scent of charcoal smoke, the sizzle of perfectly grilled meats, the joyous clinking of ice in pitchers. Barbecues are a cornerstone of summer gatherings, a culinary ritual that brings friends and family together. We relish the smoky char, the juicy tenderness, the symphony of flavors. But as the last ember fades and the plates are cleared, a certain…aftermath often creeps in. It’s a familiar sensation, one that prompts a sigh and perhaps a gentle rub of the belly. This is the topic we’re tackling today in the crossword world, an informal, everyday experience that frequently finds its way into cryptic puzzles and straightforward clues alike.
The clue itself is rather benign: “Side effect after a BBQ meal, informally.” It whispers of common occurrences, the kind that don’t usually warrant a doctor’s visit but are nonetheless undeniably present. Think about the progression of the meal. It starts with anticipation, the loading of plates, the enthusiastic consumption. Then, as the initial rush of deliciousness subsides, a different set of sensations begins to take hold.
Let’s consider the elements that contribute to this post-BBQ phenomenon. The meats, often rich and fatty, are a prime suspect. Ribs, brisket, sausages – they’re undeniably satisfying, but they also require a certain amount of digestive effort. The sides, too, play a significant role. Creamy potato salads, indulgent baked beans, fluffy cornbread – these are the perfect accompaniments, but their collective weight can start to make itself known. And let’s not forget the beverages. The refreshing beers, the sweet iced teas, the occasional celebratory soda – they add to the overall fullness and can sometimes lead to a less-than-ideal internal atmosphere.
The informality of the clue is key here. It’s not asking for a medical diagnosis, but rather for a colloquial, everyday description. We’re not talking about food poisoning or a severe allergic reaction. Instead, we’re aiming for that universally understood, slightly uncomfortable feeling that can arise after a particularly hearty and enjoyable meal. It’s the kind of thing you might grumble about good-naturedly to your dining companions, or perhaps confess to your partner later that evening.
Crossword setters are masters of observation, and they glean their inspiration from the mundane, the everyday, the moments we often overlook. This particular clue taps into a shared human experience, a consequence of indulging in one of our most beloved culinary traditions. The challenge, of course, lies in distilling that multi-faceted feeling into a concise, single word or short phrase that fits the grid.
The “side effect” aspect suggests something that isn’t the main event but rather a consequence of it. It’s an outcome, a result, a state of being that follows the act of eating. And the “informally” tag is your invitation to think casually, to access your everyday vocabulary, the words you’d use in a relaxed conversation rather than a formal report.
This clue is a perfect example of how crosswords can be both intellectually stimulating and deeply relatable. It’s a little puzzle that reflects a little piece of our lived reality. So, as you ponder this particular entry, consider the full sensory experience of a barbecue, from the first smoky aroma to the lingering satisfaction. What is that very common, informal aftermath that often accompanies such a delightful occasion? The answer, when you find it, will likely bring a knowing nod of recognition.
Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
MEAT SWEATS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: 1206-25 NY Times Crossword 6 Dec 25, Saturday