Croix Valley Grillmeister Jen Lauer | November 2021
Meet the Croix Valley November Grillmeister - Jen Lauer!
Jen grew up in Lake Elmo MN, and now lives in Stillwater, MN. She's married to Pitmaster Steve. They have four children - Adrianna, Hanna, Alex and Samuel.
Jen has worked at the Home Depot in Maplewood MN for 25 years and is currently a Customer Order Specialist for Millwork and Kitchens. She also happened to meet Steve at Home Depot.
They were married in 2008 at a church wedding followed by a backyard reception. Steve made the grill that their caterer/family friend used to cook pork loins on. Shortly after that Steve created another grill but this time it had a smoker on it. Their friend told them he was entering them into a bbq competition. They said ok, and in 2011 they completed in their first bbq comp. They didn't finish last, and had a call in dessert.
They only competed once a year for many years and then decided to become judges. In 2018 they added a few more competitions and earned an RGC (Reserved Grand Champion). From that moment they were hooked!
![croix valley grillmeister Jen Lauer](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0716/1027/files/Jen_2_600x600.jpg?v=1635779525)
ON TO THE QUESTIONS!
When did you get into grilling, and how often do you fire it up?
I've been grilling as long as I can remember. We had a charcoal grill when I was younger and I remember my mom running her hand over the coals in a coffee can to see if the were ready. As a campfire girl we baked a cake in a grill made out of a beer case. I always had a propane grill available.My first smoker was an inexpensive charbroil smoker. I loved cooking whole chickens on it. I was amazed at the flavors with such a basic set up.
We try to grill out at least once a week. More in the summer. I love it when the kids want to grill a burger for me, and definitely encourage them to experiment with different flavors.
![croix valley grillmeister Jen Lauer](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0716/1027/files/Jen_6_600x600.jpg?v=1635779570)
Name one grilling technique you’ve learned over the years that has served you well.
With many different types of grills I have learned that heat management is one of the most important things. Understanding how meats cook, regardless of the temperature, to produce a quality product.
What’s the most unique thing you’ve grilled or cooked?
The most unique items I have smoked would be rabbits and a deer whole hog style. My favorites are corned beef, shrimp, meatballs, bacon and desserts!
![croix valley grillmeister Jen Lauer](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0716/1027/files/Jen_Lauer_1_600x600.jpg?v=1635779630)
Tell us about your most memorable day around the grill.
My most memorable day was at a contest was making Creme Brûlée on the smoker for Anything Egg. I won 1st prize and it was amazing.
Last but not least, what are your favorite Croix Valley products?
My favorite Croix Valley products are:
Sweet Heat, it can go on anything!
Blue-B-Cue, especially on Meatballs!
Honey Dijon Barbeque 'N Brat Sauce.
Bloody Mary Seasoning, Horseradish or Garlic 'N Dill.
![croix valley grillmeister Jen Lauer](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0716/1027/files/jen_7_600x600.jpg?v=1635779596)
1 comment
Great job, you are an amazing friend with amazing talent. Love you sweetie!