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Smoked brisket is a BBQ staple for good reason. With the right technique, it becomes incredibly tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. This recipe will guide you through the process, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned smoker.
Ingredients:
- 1 (12-16 pound) whole packer brisket
- 1/4 cup coarse kosher salt
- 1/4 cup coarse black pepper
- 1/4 cup granulated garlic (optional)
- Your favorite BBQ rub (optional)
Equipment:
- Smoker (charcoal, propane, or pellet)
- Wood chips or chunks (oak, hickory, or mesquite)
- Meat thermometer
- Butcher paper or aluminum foil
Instructions:
- Trim the Brisket: Trim excess fat, leaving about 1/4 inch layer. Remove any hard, silver skin.
- Season the Brisket: Generously coat the brisket with the salt, pepper, and garlic (if using). You can also add your favorite BBQ rub.
- Prepare the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add wood chips or chunks for smoke flavor.
- Smoke the Brisket: Place the brisket fat side up in the smoker. Smoke for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Wrap the Brisket: Remove the brisket from the smoker and wrap it tightly in butcher paper or aluminum foil. This will help it retain moisture and continue cooking.
- Continue Smoking: Return the wrapped brisket to the smoker and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 203°F (95°C). This can take another 4-6 hours.
- Rest the Brisket: Remove the brisket from the smoker and let it rest, still wrapped, for at least 1 hour. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful brisket.
- Slice and Serve: Unwrap the brisket and slice it against the grain. Enjoy!
Tips:
- Use a good quality brisket for the best results. Look for one with good marbling (streaks of fat).
- Don’t over smoke the brisket. Too much smoke can make it bitter.
- Be patient! Smoking a brisket takes time, but the end result is worth it.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the brisket on its own or in sandwiches.
- Pair it with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans.
- Try it with different sauces to find your favorite flavor combination.