Barbecued Beef Brisket

Barbecued Beef Brisket is a classic dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender, smoky beef with a tangy, savory barbecue sauce. This slow-cooked masterpiece is perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or anytime you want to impress with a flavorful, hearty meal. Cooking the brisket low and slow ensures that it stays moist, juicy, and packed with flavor.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Step-by-Step Instructions
4. Cook Notes & Tips
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ingredients

For Barbecued Beef Brisket

• 4-5 pounds beef brisket, trimmed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 2 cups barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket

1. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Rub the brisket all over with olive oil, then coat it generously with the spice rub, pressing the mixture into the meat. Let the brisket sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven or Smoker

1. If using an oven, preheat it to 275°F (135°C). If using a smoker, preheat it to 225°F (110°C) and prepare your wood chips (hickory, oak, or mesquite work well).

Step 3: Cook the Brisket

1. Place the brisket in a roasting pan (if using the oven) or directly on the smoker rack (if smoking).
2. Cover the brisket with foil if using the oven, and cook for 4-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C) and the meat is tender. If smoking, cook for 8-10 hours, depending on the size of the brisket, maintaining a steady temperature.

Step 4: Add Barbecue Sauce

1. During the last hour of cooking, brush the brisket generously with barbecue sauce, reserving some sauce for serving.
2. Continue cooking uncovered, allowing the sauce to caramelize on the surface of the brisket.

Step 5: Rest and Slice

1. Remove the brisket from the oven or smoker and let it rest, covered loosely with foil, for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
2. Slice the brisket against the grain into thin slices.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the sliced brisket with extra barbecue sauce on the side, along with your favorite sides such as coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Trim the Brisket: Trim excess fat from the brisket, but leave a thin layer to keep the meat moist during cooking.
• Cooking Temperature: Cooking low and slow is key to breaking down the connective tissue in the brisket, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
• Resting: Letting the brisket rest after cooking helps redistribute the juices, making for more tender slices.

Variations

• Sweet and Spicy Brisket: Add 2 tablespoons of honey to the spice rub for a sweet kick, and increase the cayenne for extra heat.
• Coffee-Rubbed Brisket: Substitute 2 tablespoons of the paprika with finely ground coffee for a rich, earthy flavor.
• Texas-Style Brisket: Skip the barbecue sauce and focus on a dry rub with plenty of black pepper and smoked paprika for a traditional Texas-style brisket.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Make This Brisket in a Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can cook the brisket in a slow cooker. Place the seasoned brisket in the slow cooker, add 1 cup of broth or water, and cook on low for 8-10 hours. Brush with barbecue sauce during the last hour.

2. How Should I Store Leftover Brisket?

Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a bit of extra barbecue sauce to keep it moist.

3. Can I Freeze Cooked Brisket?

Yes, cooked brisket freezes well. Wrap it tightly in foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. What Sides Go Well with Barbecued Beef Brisket?

Classic sides include coleslaw, potato salad, cornbread, baked beans, and mac and cheese. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables or a green salad for a lighter option.

Barbecued Beef Brisket is a smoky, tender, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich spices and tangy barbecue sauce, it’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re serving it at a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this brisket will be a hit. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the classic taste of barbecued beef brisket.

Happy cooking!