Since we returned from Las Vegas in 2001, we have participated on an infrequent basis in Utah’s Powerball/Lottery. Yes, every few months we travel north of the border to Franklin, Idaho. This excursion would take us several hours – trucking through the roads of Cache County, Utah trying to avoid Logan.
One day, a co-worker of mine suggested the bustling metropolis of Mallad, Idaho. Yes, it was about 30 minutes shorter on either end of the travel time. So that would save us time.
Why do we do this? And isn’t gambling against the church? Well, no not exactly. Several LDS members make their livelihood off Gambling in Las Vegas and in our State up North. Idaho has the highest concentration of LDS Members in the Upper 48 – and where do those saints work? Let’s just say – they are not all famers.
Now, I also use this time to get my children in the car and we get to have long drives together. Remember the long drives we had as kids? This is a nostalgic time as I get to talk to my son when he isn’t playing with his mom’s iPhone playing NCAA 13 Football.
Since we changed our ticket destination to Mallad, the lotto ticket store suggested this BBQ spot just down the road. Well, in our first few passes – we saw it was an open field – and not really a house as the name describes.. but well like a shack. So, we passed on it either using the time to go to Pocatello or, heading back to Utah.
We finally gave it a try. Note: This was a very cold February Saturday morning, and they had just opened – and well most of their seating was covered in snow. We didn’t have any expectations – however, we were hopeful. I am a lucky man as my wife and child are BBQ versed – and don’t just appreciate average BBQ – they enjoy great BBQ.
Let’s not confuse ourselves – this place did good BBQ.
Cindy had the Pulled Pork BBQ Sandwich $5.25 with a side of Potato Salad $1.75
Cindy and I really enjoyed the potato salad. There were additional components in this version that told us that it was crafted there. Red bell peppers, slightly thicker cut onions, and capers were all nice additions. I would recommend a slight more salt, remember – it is very deceptive how much to salt potatoes. Those suckers really suck up the salt.
I had the Tri-Tip Sandwich $6.95
Both of these sandwiches were very tasty. There was just the right enough balance between the BBQ Sauce and Garlic Bread, salt and sweet taste. Based on the taste – I would determine they sell a lot of sandwiches. The prices were very reasonable for what you got.
I wouldn’t say the product was smoked – at least on the Tri-Tip sandwich. Now, don’t take that as a detraction. I just believe the beef is a product he brings in and doesn’t smoke it. However, I stand to be corrected.
Connar had the Pork Ribs BBQ Plate $9.75
Pictures can be deceiving. I love ribs – and this is why Spero’s got a Good BBQ Rating. These ribs had some smoke – the ring of smoke was there, however it wasn’t as pronounced smoke flavor. The BBQ sauce was very nice. You see in my mind if your sauce is more flavorful than your meat, then your doing something wrong.
Since the ribs didn’t pull easily from the bone, it is common that they smoked this at too high of a temperature and his ribs cooked sooner than he had wanted. You might ask, “What’s the problem with that Brian?” That is a great question – if you cook them at too high of a temp two things occur:
- Limited smoke penetration to the meat
- Less than tender meat
The less than tender meat is the decider for me. The meat should just hug the bone, but slip free with a tug of your teeth. This is tender – 225° is the best temperature to do this. It appears with the cold, and varying temperatures this can be difficult.
All in all – I would recommend this BBQ Joint on the sole merit of their BBQ Sandwiches and Potato Salad. The drive was also nice, so if your hankering for a Road Trip visit Spero’s.
Spero’s House of BBQ
168 E. 50 S.
Malad City, ID
1.208.766.5575
