If you're a fan of smoky, succulent meat, there's nothing quite like a perfectly smoked brisket. This cut of meat can be tricky to smoke, though, and requires a bit of patience and skill. Here's a step-by-step guide to smoking a brisket that will leave your taste buds singing.
Step 1: Choose your brisket
First, you'll need to choose the right brisket for smoking. Look for a brisket that is well-marbled with fat and has a nice, even thickness. The best briskets come from the point end of the brisket, which is fattier and more flavorful.
Step 2: Prep the brisket
Before smoking your brisket, you'll need to prep it properly. Start by trimming any excess fat from the brisket, leaving about 1/4 - 1/2 inch of fat on the surface. Then, season the brisket generously with our Woo Pig BBQ Backroads Brisket, making sure to rub the seasoning in well. Optional is to wrap the brisket tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Set up your smoker
Now it's time to set up your smoker. If you're using a charcoal smoker, light your coals and add your smoking wood chips or chunks. If you're using an electric smoker, simply plug it in and add your wood chips or chunks according to the manufacturer's instructions. Heat your smoker to 270 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 4: Smoke the brisket
Once your smoker is heated up, it's time to smoke the brisket. Place the brisket on the smoker, fat side up, and let it smoke for about 6 hours (aiming for about 155 degrees). After 6 hours, wrap the brisket in butcher paper or place it in an aluminum foil boat to help it retain moisture and continue cooking. In the wrap or boat we add beef tallow. Return the wrapped brisket to the smoker and continue smoking until the internal temperature of the brisket reaches 200-205 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 5: Rest the brisket
Once the brisket is fully cooked, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for at least 2 hours. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and ensures that your brisket will be moist and tender.
Step 6: Slice and serve
After the brisket has rested, it's time to slice and serve. Use a sharp knife to slice the brisket against the grain into thin slices. Enjoy!
Smoking a brisket takes time and practice, but with these simple steps, you'll be able to smoke a delicious brisket that will have your friends and family begging for more.