Coals flame below a half-moon soapstone installed in a Divide & Conquer rack

Chef Morgan James

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Private Chef & Grill Master

From Father's Lessons to Fire Feasts

Hi my name is Morgan Ferguson, I’m a Private Chef/Caterer based out of the DMV (DC, MD, VA). My love for grilling grew from many years of watching my father grill and smoke meats as I grew up. Almost every weekend there would be some lesson he would equate to life where the concept was engraved in my mind. After many years of him being the family "Grill Master" it was time for me to take over as I had finally learned my way around navigating the grill. For years it was friendly competition of who was better and after many years we just decided that he is the "OG" Grill Master but I was the "New School" Grill Master. I’ve been grilling at a higher level almost 15 years with a couple local competition wins under my belt. My father actually introduced me to the Kamado Joe brand and I wouldn't change a thing!

Favorite Activity:
Photography/Video Games
Fun Fact:
James is my middle name and also my fathers first name.
Favorite Recipe:
Smoked Gouda Burnt End Mac & Cheese
Hometown:
Burtonsville, MD

Parrilla Favorita

Kamado Joe Product of Choice

Classic Joe® Grill - Series II

I feel that you can’t get any better than the Kamado Joe classic because the heat distribution is so versatile and has survived the test of time as new technology is introduced!

Learn More

Kamado Joe Preguntas y Respuestas con Chef Morgan James

What inspired you to start barbecuing? How long have you been doing it? Tell us how you got started!
My dad inspired me to start barbecuing. What started as a way for us to bond and teach slowly turned into a lifestyle. I have been grilling for almost 15 years and have always had a passion for out cooking so my love for open flame/grilling and smoking came naturally. Entered in some local competitions and just saw how far you can really go barbecuing.
What advice would you give to someone new to grilling? do you have any advice for a new content creator in the BBQ space?
I would say just get out there and fire it up! You can’t get better if you don’t try. It’s going to be some bad days but I guarantee the good days will certainly outweigh those. For new creators my advice is very similar, post the content keep going until you find your niche and what works for you. Consistency is what will help you and ultimately define your style of content. There’s no one right way to do it so be authentically you and you can’t fail!
What is your favorite grilling technique that you've learned and why?
My favorite technique would definitely be the reverse sear method because in a sense when you have it down it’s remotely full proof. Also there’s nothing I love more than getting a flame ripping hot to get a delicately beautiful char from that kiss of the fire.
What is your favorite recipe?
Boursin Stuffed Lamb Burger with Tzatziki and Pickled Red Onions.
What’s the best way to connect with the BBQ community and learn more?
Barbecuing is one of the most welcoming communities so if you’re looking to meet and learn more bring some beer and pull up by the fire!