Beef brisket holds a special place in the world of barbecue and grilling, and this award-winning beef brisket recipe has become a favorite among meat lovers. Brisket is a cut of meat from the breast or lower chest of a cow, known for its rich, beefy flavor and tender texture when cooked properly. The history of beef brisket can be traced back to traditional American barbecue, where slow-cooking tough cuts of meat over low heat was a way to transform them into delicious, melt-in-your-mouth delicacies.
The flavors in this recipe are a perfect balance of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet. The dry rub, consisting of a combination of spices such as kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and more, infuses the meat with a robust flavor profile. During the long smoking process, these spices permeate the brisket, creating a beautiful crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. The addition of beef broth not only helps to keep the meat moist but also enhances its natural beefy flavors.
Popularity-wise, beef brisket is cherished in various culinary traditions around the world. From American barbecue joints to Jewish delicatessens serving mouthwatering pastrami sandwiches, brisket has gained a significant following. Its popularity is owed to its versatility; it can be enjoyed in various ways, such as thinly sliced and served on sandwiches, in tacos, or as a centerpiece for a hearty family meal.
When serving this award-winning beef brisket, it’s often recommended to accompany it with classic barbecue sides to complement the flavors. Popular choices include coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, pickles, and macaroni and cheese. These sides provide a balance of textures and flavors that perfectly complement the smoky, savory notes of the brisket. Additionally, offering a variety of barbecue sauces, both tangy and sweet, allows each person to customize their brisket experience according to their preference.
Overall, this award-winning beef brisket recipe combines history, flavors, and popularity into a truly outstanding dish. With its tender and juicy meat, infused with a delightful blend of spices, it’s a true delight for any barbecue or grilling enthusiast. Whether served at a backyard gathering or a special occasion, this beef brisket is sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Beef brisket
Ingredients
- 1 whole beef brisket approximately 10 pounds
Dry Rub
- 4 Tbsp kosher salt
- 4 Tbsp freshly ground black pepper
- 4 Tbsp paprika
- 2 Tbsp garlic powder
- 2 Tbsp onion powder
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar
- 2 Tbsp chili powder
- 1 Tbsp cayenne pepper adjust according to your heat preference
- 1 Tbsp dried oregano
- 1 Tbsp dried thyme
For Basting
- 2 Cups beef broth
- 1 Cup barbecue sauce your favorite brand
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (110°C).
- In a bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, chili powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Mix well to create a dry rub.
- Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. Trim any excess fat, leaving about ¼ inch of fat on the surface. This will help keep the meat moist during cooking.
- Generously season the entire brisket with the dry rub, ensuring all sides are coated. Massage the rub into the meat, allowing it to adhere properly.
- Place the seasoned brisket on the smoker or grill, fat side up. Close the lid and let it smoke for approximately 6 to 8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches around 200°F (93°C). Maintain a steady temperature throughout the cooking process.
- After the initial 4 hours of smoking, add the beef broth to a large aluminum foil pan and place the brisket in the pan. Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
- Return the covered pan to the smoker or grill and continue cooking for another 2 to 4 hours, or until the brisket reaches the desired tenderness. The meat should be tender and easily shred apart with a fork.
- Remove the pan from the heat and let the brisket rest, still covered, for about 30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Carefully transfer the brisket to a cutting board and slice against the grain to the desired thickness. The slices should be tender and juicy.
- Serve the sliced brisket with your favorite barbecue sauce on the side. You can also brush the sauce over the sliced meat if desired.
