How To Cook Brisket

Brisket is a tough cut of meat that requires slow cooking to break down the connective tissue and become tender and flavorful. It’s a popular cut of meat for barbecuing, smoking, and slow roasting. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook brisket using several methods, including oven roasting, smoking, and slow cooking.

How To Cook Brisket In The Oven

Oven roasting brisket is a straightforward and easy way to cook the meat. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients:
– 4-5 lb beef brisket
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. salt
– 1/2 tsp. black pepper
– 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp. onion powder
– 1/2 tsp. paprika
– 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. Mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the brisket on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Pour the beef broth into the Dutch oven and cover with the lid. Place the Dutch oven in the oven and bake for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender.
5. Remove the brisket from the Dutch oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

How To Cook Brisket On A Smoker

Smoking brisket takes some time and effort, but it’s worth it for the flavor. Here are the steps for smoking brisket.

Ingredients:
– 4-5 lb beef brisket
– 1/4 cup kosher salt
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp. black pepper
– 2 tbsp. paprika
– 2 tbsp. garlic powder
– 1 tbsp. onion powder
– 1/4 cup beef broth

Instructions:
1. Preheat the smoker to 225°F.
2. Mix together the kosher salt, brown sugar, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket.
3. Place the brisket on the smoker fat side up and close the lid. Smoke for 1-2 hours per pound of meat, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F.
4. Add the beef broth to the bottom of the smoker to keep the brisket moist.
5. Remove the brisket from the smoker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

How To Slow Cook Brisket

Slow cooking brisket in a slow cooker or Instant Pot is an excellent option for hands-off cooking. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients:
– 4-5 lb beef brisket
– 1 tsp. salt
– 1/2 tsp. black pepper
– 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp. onion powder
– 1/2 tsp. paprika
– 1/2 cup beef broth

Instructions:
1. Season the brisket with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the brisket on both sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the brisket to the slow cooker or Instant Pot. Pour the beef broth over the brisket.
4. Cook on low heat for 8-10 hours in the slow cooker or 1 hour in the Instant Pot on the meat/stew setting.
5. Remove the brisket from the slow cooker or Instant Pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

FAQs

Q: How do I know if my brisket is done?
A: The brisket is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F to 205°F. You can check the temperature with a meat thermometer.

Q: Should I remove the fat cap on the brisket?
A: It’s a matter of personal preference, but many people recommend leaving the fat cap on during cooking to keep the brisket moist.

Q: How long should I rest the brisket before slicing?
A: Let the brisket rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute and prevent the meat from drying out.

Q: Can I cook brisket in a pressure cooker?
A: Yes, you can cook brisket in an Instant Pot or other pressure cooker. Follow the instructions for slow cooking, but on the meat/stew setting for 1 hour.

Q: What’s the best wood for smoking brisket?
A: Oak, hickory, and mesquite are all good options for smoking brisket. Choose a wood with a strong flavor that complements the meat.