To cook a Texas-style brisket, you’ll need patience, the right spices, and a smoker for that authentic flavor. Here’s a high-level overview of the process:
Ingredients:
- 12-14 lb beef brisket
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup black pepper
- Optional: garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or a pre-made BBQ rub
Instructions:
- Trim the Brisket: Trim excess fat from the brisket, leaving about 1/4 inch of fat for moisture.
- Season: Rub the brisket generously with a mix of kosher salt and black pepper. Some variations include adding garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika.
- Preheat the Smoker: Set your smoker to 225°F using oak, hickory, or mesquite wood for authentic Texas flavor.
- Smoke the Brisket: Place the brisket in the smoker, fat side up, and smoke for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches around 165°F.
- Wrap the Brisket: Wrap the brisket in butcher paper or aluminum foil, then continue smoking until the internal temperature reaches 195-205°F (about 4-6 more hours).
- Rest the Brisket: Let the brisket rest in a cooler for 1-2 hours before slicing.
The result is a tender, juicy brisket with a smoky bark—a Texas BBQ classic!