brisket cooking instructions

Slow-Cooked Classic Brisket

For a smaller Brisket

Here's a condensed version of a smoked brisket recipe tailored for a 3-pound cut:

Ingredients:

• 1 small beef brisket (about 3 pounds)

• 2 tablespoons kosher salt

• 2 tablespoons coarsely ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

• Wood chips or chunks (hickory, oak, or mesquite), soaked in water for 1 hour

Instructions:

1. Prep the Brisket:

   • Trim excess fat from the brisket, leaving a thin layer (about ¼ inch) on one side.

   • Pat the brisket dry with paper towels.

2. Prepare the Rub:

   • In a bowl, combine salt, pepper, paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper to create the rub.

3. Apply the Rub:

   • Coat the entire brisket with the spice rub, ensuring it's evenly distributed and pressed into the meat.

4. Prepare the Smoker:

   • Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add the soaked wood chips or chunks to the smoker box.

5. Smoke the Brisket:

   • Place the brisket fat side up on the smoker rack.

   • Close the smoker and maintain a steady temperature of 225°F (107°C).

   • Smoke the brisket for approximately 1.5 hours per pound or until the internal temperature reaches around 195-205°F (91-96°C) in the thickest part of the meat.

6. Rest and Slice:

   • Once done, remove the brisket from the smoker.

   • Wrap it in foil or butcher paper and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before slicing.

7. Slice and Serve:

   • Slice the brisket against the grain into thin slices.

   • Serve the smoked brisket with your preferred barbecue sauce or enjoy its natural flavors.

Given its smaller size, the cooking time might be shorter than larger briskets, so keep an eye on the internal temperature for doneness. Adjustments in seasoning or cooking

Slow-Cooked Classic Brisket

For a larger Brisket

Ingredients:

• 1 whole beef brisket (about 5-7 pounds)

• 4 tablespoons of your favorite dry rub or seasoning mix

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, sliced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups beef or vegetable broth

• 1 cup red wine (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Pat dry the brisket with paper towels and generously season it with your chosen dry rub or seasoning mix, covering all sides. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.

2. Sear the Brisket: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for about 3-4 minutes on each side until nicely browned. Remove the brisket from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant.

4. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the beef or vegetable broth and red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

5. Braise the Brisket: Place the seared brisket back into the skillet or Dutch oven, fat side up. Cover it tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.

6. Slow Cook: Transfer the skillet or Dutch oven to the preheated oven. Let the brisket cook low and slow for about 4-5 hours. Check periodically and add more broth or liquid if needed to prevent it from drying out.

7. Check for Doneness: After 4-5 hours, the brisket should be tender. You can check by inserting a fork—it should easily pierce the meat. If it's not fork-tender, continue cooking for another 30 minutes to an hour.

8. Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the brisket from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes. Slice it against the grain into thin slices for maximum tenderness.

9. Optional Gravy: If desired, you can strain the cooking liquid, reduce it on the stovetop to thicken, and serve it as a delicious gravy alongside the brisket.

10. Serve and Enjoy: Plate your beautifully sliced brisket with your favorite sides and enjoy the tender, flavorful goodness with your family and friends!

This recipe ensures a succulent and flavorful brisket that'll be the star of your family dinner! Adjust seasoning and cooking times based on your preferences and the size of the brisket. Enjoy!