Kenz
Culinary Explorer
Have this savory dish!


Ingredients:
- Beef Brisket: 4-5 pounds (choose a whole packer brisket if possible)
- Salt: 1/4 cup
- Black Pepper: 1/4 cup
- Paprika: 2 tablespoons
- Garlic Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Onion Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons
- Cayenne Pepper: 1 teaspoon (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Beef Broth or Apple Juice: for spritzing (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Brisket:
- Trim excess fat from the brisket, leaving about 1/4 inch of fat cap to help keep the meat moist during smoking.
- Pat the brisket dry with paper towels.
- Season the Brisket:
- In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper.
- Rub this seasoning mix evenly over all sides of the brisket. For best results, let the brisket sit with the rub for at least 1 hour, or ideally, refrigerate it overnight to let the flavors penetrate.
- Preheat the Smoker:
- Preheat your smoker to 225-250°F (107-121°C). Use wood chips or chunks that complement beef, such as hickory, mesquite, or oak.
- Smoke the Brisket:
- Place the brisket in the smoker, fat side up. This allows the fat to baste the meat as it cooks.
- Smoke the brisket for about 1 to 1.5 hours per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 195-205°F (90-96°C). The exact time will vary based on the size of the brisket and the consistency of your smoker’s temperature.
- If using, spritz the brisket with beef broth or apple juice every hour or so to keep it moist and add a bit of extra flavor.
- Rest the Brisket:
- Once the brisket reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the smoker.
- Wrap the brisket in aluminum foil or butcher paper and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice and Serve:
- Slice the brisket against the grain to ensure tender slices.
- Serve with your favorite barbecue sauce, sides, or just enjoy it on its own.
Tips:
- Wood Choice: Hickory and mesquite offer strong flavors, while oak provides a milder, more balanced smoke. Apple and cherry wood give a subtle sweetness.
- Temperature Monitoring: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature accurately.
- Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting step; it’s crucial for juicy, tender results.