Jason Wiljanen

Today we meet: Jason Wiljanen

Age: 43

Location: Wentzville, MO

Profession: I was a contractor, we had our daughter the same time my wife finished her Master’s Degree so we made a decision that I would step back and take care of the kids while she progressed in her career. So now with the kids older, I have more time to pursue what I enjoy. BBQ catering and other areas of cooking.

How much time in the group? I’m a noob… 1 Week

How did you hear about the group? Invite 

When did you start smoking and why? I guess around 15 years ago. I picked up a Brinkmann Charcoal Grill and I was looking for a recipe for something when I came across a group based on Smoking and BBQ. I ended up diving right in and I’ve loved every minute. 

You do you! Try new things, forget about what you “know” BBQ or grilling is and make it your own. Just because something has been done a way for years doesn’t mean there isn’t a better way or even a way you prefer.

Jason Wiljanen

Tools you use (smokers/grills and more): After many different types and brands I’ve ended up with a Yoder YS1500S and a Yoder YS24x36. All my tools are Grillbeast. 

Favorite cuts + way of preparation: I’m a beef guy. If it’s beef I love it and I will cook it. But if I had to pick it would be Prime Rib. My go-to is a Garlic Herb Marrow Butter Crusted smoked at 275 until 125. I could live off Prime Rib, Fries and a Salad. 

What is your winning recipe? I can’t really say I have one. It’s very rare that I do the same thing twice, I try to switch it up and do new ways every time I make something.

What is the most bizarre thing you made? I haven’t really done anything bizarre. I tend to stay in the lane of what my family and I like. I do try and take everyday dishes and work them out to cook on the smoker or grill. 

What did you learn from the group? Man, groups give you such a vast exposure to other people’s methods, ideas, etc. You can always learn when you’re surrounded by all these people that share the same love you have for BBQ.

Other hobbies: I really don’t have any other hobbies, I stay busy enough. I’m a Certified SLBS Judge and I’m getting into some Competition BBQ myself to have some fun.

Message to the nation: You do you! Try new things, forget about what you “know” BBQ or grilling is and make it your own. Just because something has been done a way for years doesn’t mean there isn’t a better way or even a way you prefer. Whether you’re making Waygu Brisket on a $5000 smoker or a Hotdog with a match stick, if it’s good… You are doing it right.

Recently we started activity in our Facebook group called “meat the smoker”.

It’s a small interview with our group members, we get to know them a little better.
Everyone is welcomed to participate.

To be the next meat the smoker you can email us to bob@theartofsmokeandgrill.com and get the template and you will be shown here.

#smokeon