MEET THE MAKER...The Crafty Pit

It might be the sight of colourful local art or unique handcrafted homewares that draws you into our markets, but it’s the smell of sumptuous slow-cooked and smoked delights that will have you searching {and lingering} for a meal.

After working up an appetite browsing the stalls, follow your nose to The Crafty Pit. Established in 2016 by Raymond Terrace couple Paul and Amanda Bull, the food van offers a range of barbecued meats cooked ‘low n slow with a twist’ and incorporated in a range of delicious dishes, from burgers and wraps to nachos and subs.

“I bought my first Weber Kettle barbecue back in 2000 and started my love for charcoal cooking,” Paul said. “Nearly every weekend I would be cooking pork or chicken roast along with vegetables all on the Kettle. I love to cook for family and friends, and it was my family and friends that said to us we need to get out there, purchase a food van and let other people try our creations.“

The Crafty Pit started in early 2016. The name came together based on trying to do things differently when it comes to pit cooking, giving people an exciting new take on the flavours they crave but may not be able to achieve at home.”

Passionate about cooking meats that are tender and full of flavour, Paul said the secret lay in the spices they use and the patience required not to rush the process.

“All my meats are cooked low and slow over ironbark wood,” he said. “The secret is the quality and cuts of meat used, good spice rubs to give flavour, temperature control and time to cook it – it can’t be rushed. “Working closely with the team at Terrace Meats Raymond Terrace we are able to source the best cuts for low and slow cooking. The barbecue sauce we use is freshly made every week and our spice rubs are also handmade using the freshest of ingredients.

”The Crafty Pit has been making its way to the Handmade in the Hunter Markets since March 2018 and regulars will notice that while they have a core offering, Paul and Amanda love to change up their menu.

With so many tasty dishes on offer, Paul said it was tough to select just one favourite. “My favourite is the Pulled Beef Burger with smoked pulled beef, beetroot relish and vintage cheese – the combination of all three tastes is unexpected and delicious,” he said.

“Amanda’s would be the Cheeseburger Spring Rolls. Freshly made for every event, these are definitely a crowd favourite. And you can’t go past our nachos using our pulled meats, fresh tomato salsa and all the trimmings – it’s a meal for two.”

Check out The Crafty Pit at the Handmade in the Hunter Markets this month, which will be held at Kevin Sobels Wines from 9am to 3pm on July 18 + 25 and August 8 + 22. Keep an eye on www.handmadehuntermarkets.com.au as additional market dates may be announced.