About Billy Pecora
My journey in outdoor cooking and homemade wines
Welcome to My Backyard
Hi, I’m Billy Pecora. I’m passionate about creating delicious meals in my backyard, experimenting with new grilling techniques, and crafting homemade wines. This blog is where I share my adventures, successes, and even the occasional mishap in outdoor cooking.
What You’ll Find Here
- Easy-to-follow grilling recipes for all skill levels
- Tips on growing your own herbs and vegetables for cooking
- My adventures in homemade wine-making
- Honest reviews of grilling equipment and BBQ restaurants
- A community of fellow backyard cooking enthusiasts
My Journey: From Backyard BBQs to Blogging
1972-1986: Early Years and Culinary Roots
Born in 1972 in Nebraska, I grew up in a family where food was central. My Italian grandparents ran restaurants, and early memories include making noodles with my grandmother. By age ten, I was cooking the family’s Sunday spaghetti dinner.
1987-1996: Expanding Horizons
High school and college years broadened my culinary experiences. My first job as a dishwasher taught me about preparing ribs. In college, I honed my pasta-making skills, catering events and impressing dates with Italian cuisine.
1997-2003: Texas BBQ Awakening
Moving to San Antonio for work introduced me to authentic Texan barbecue. Places like Rudy’s Country Store & Bar-B-Q sparked a fascination with smoky flavors and meat-by-the-pound serving style.
2004-2011: Marriage and BBQ Experiments
After marrying Liliana in 2004 and moving to Kansas City, I balanced her Dominican cuisine with my growing interest in barbecue. I bought my first offset smoker and embarked on a journey of trial and error, determined to master Texas-style brisket.
2012-2019: East Coast Move and Culinary Adaptation
Relocating to Connecticut in 2012 challenged my barbecue passion. With limited local options, I deepened my knowledge through books and YouTube, adapting my techniques to please my family’s palate.
2020-2023: Wine-Making and Mastery
In 2020, I started making wine from our homegrown grapes, reviving a family tradition. I also took Aaron Franklin’s MasterClass, refining my barbecue skills and creating a signature rub that finally won my family’s approval.
2024: Birth of the Blog
Encouraged by friends and family, I launched this blog to share my culinary journey. It’s a platform to document recipes, wine-making adventures, and potentially, a stepping stone towards my dream of opening “Uncle Billy’s Backyard” – a BBQ joint celebrating food, wine, and music.
Today: Continuing the Journey
This blog is my way of sharing ongoing discoveries in outdoor cooking and wine pairing. I’m not a professional, just an enthusiastic home cook passionate about great food and good wine. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a curious novice, join me in exploring the wonderful world of backyard gastronomy!
