Certified.Creole.BBQ

James Llorens

Turning Backyard BBQ into a Passion

A Family Man's BBQ

I'm a family man and backyard BBQ enthusiast who has always loved BBQ, but I had no clue what I was doing when I started, and I got tired of restaurant BBQ. Then, in the summer of 2016, I purchased my first Char-Griller grill/smoker: the Smokin’ Champ 1624. I struggled with it at first but couldn’t stop BBQing. The struggle is where I found my passion and love for BBQ. I just wanted to make good BBQ and create quality BBQ content like I saw on social media, and that turned into wanting even more.

Learning that it takes time, effort, and patience to make quality BBQ was a crucial lesson for me. Once I learned this, everything clicked, and it all made sense to me, showing in both my food and the content I was creating. My BBQ goal is to have my own successful food truck, traveling the States and BBQing. I like to have fun with my BBQ and am not afraid to try something new. I'm married with three kids and always BBQ with them by my side.

Favorite Activity:: BBQ'n with my family whild watching football & going to Disney World
Fun Fact:: Played semi-pro football
Favorite Recipes:: Pork Ribs
Hometown:: Chicago, IL

FAVORITE GRILL

Char-Griller Product of Choice

Smokin' Pro

My favorite grill without a doubt is the Char-Griller Smokin' Pro Charcoal Grill. The rugged design and robust construction of this grill make it a standout choice for me. It's not just a grill; it's a complete smoking and grilling powerhouse. With its large cooking surface, adjustable fire grate, and side firebox for that authentic smoky flavor, it delivers on every front. Whether I'm in the mood for slow-smoked ribs or a quick sear on the main grilling area, the Smokin' Pro never fails to impress. It's not just a piece of outdoor cooking equipment; it's the heart of my backyard gatherings and the secret behind my perfectly grilled masterpieces.

Featured Recipe

Crunchy Juicy Smokin' Chicharron

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of smoky, succulent pork belly strips with this mouthwatering recipe cooked on the Grand Champ Offset Smoker. With a perfect blend of spices and a touch of mesquite wood-infused smokiness, these crispy pork belly strips are an absolute delight for your taste buds. To get started, we'll show you how to prepare and cook these savory delights step by step. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up the grill, and let's get cooking!

Char-Griller Q&A with James Llorens

What inspired you to start barbecuing?: I always loved BBQ and got tired of going to restaurants. I intially had no knowledge, but I purchased by first Char-Griller Smoker in the summer of 2016 and began experimenting. Here I am years later, learning new things everyday!
What did you discovr during the initial struggles with BBQ, and how did it impact your journey?: The initial struggles with BBQ became the sourse of passin and love for BBQ. I found that the challenges were where I discoved my true interest and commitment to barbecuing.
What realization helped you improve the quality of your BBQ and content creation?: I realized that making quality BBQ takes time, effort, and patience. Once I grasped this concept, everything started to make sense, and it reflected in both my food and content!

Novice to Pitmaster
What are your aspirations in the workd of BBQ?: My BBQ goal is to have my own successful food truck, traveling the States and barbecuing.
What is your approach towrards trying new things in the BBQ?: I'm not afraid to try something new! Being adventurous and experimental to barbecuing contributes to the enjoyment of the process.