There’s a new sizzle in town, and it’s not just from the smoker. We’re thrilled to announce that the team at PJ’s Magic Smoke has officially become certified judges with the Kansas City Barbeque Society (KCBS)!
For those who don’t know, KCBS is the largest competitive barbecue organization in the world. Their certified judges are the backbone of the sport, trained to meticulously evaluate the four key categories of competition barbecue: chicken, pork ribs, pork, and brisket. This isn’t just about tasting good food; it’s a rigorous process of blind judging based on three criteria: appearance, tenderness, and—of course—taste.
Becoming a KCBS Certified Barbeque Judge (CBJ) is no small feat. It requires attending an official judging class, where you learn the specific rules and standards that govern competitions. It’s an immersive, half-day experience where you get to taste and grade world-class barbecue, all while learning the nuances that separate good ‘cue from championship-winning ‘cue.
For us, this certification is more than just a title. It’s a new chapter in our barbecue journey, one that takes us from the competitor’s side of the fence to the judging table. We’ve spent countless hours perfecting our own rubs, sauces, and techniques, and now we get to apply that passion and knowledge to help honor the incredible pitmasters who dedicate their lives to this craft.
So, what does this mean for PJ’s Magic Smoke? It means we’ll be bringing our love for barbecue to a new level, participating in competitions not just as a team, but as part of the official judging community. We’re excited to contribute to the fairness and integrity of the sport, and to continue to learn and grow within the world of competitive barbecue.
Keep an eye out for us at a KCBS sanctioned event near you—we’ll be the ones with the scorecards, a keen eye for perfection, and a deep appreciation for every bite. Here’s to good food, good company, and the unwavering pursuit of barbecue excellence!