Texas smoked brisket is a mouthwateringly tender cut of beef, slow-cooked to perfection in a smoky barbecue that melts in your mouth like a dream.
Y’all ready to saddle up for the smokiest, juiciest, melt-in-your-mouth Texas Smoked Brisket extravaganza? Imagine a brisket so tender, it practically tips its hat and says howdy! Keep reading, and I promise to reveal every nook and cranny of this iconic BBQ masterpiece, from perfecting that rub to mastering the smoke. Yeehaw! Let’s get smokin’!
Texas Smoked Brisket
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Strap in for the smoky, succulent joyride that is Texas Smoked Brisket. This dish is a Texas treasure, loved for its rich flavor and out-of-this-world tenderness. Transform a tough cut of beef into a mouthwatering masterpiece using the slow magic of smoke and time.
- Cooking Method: Smoking
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus 12 hours for seasoning)
- Cook Time: 10-12 hours
- Cuisine Type: American, Texan
Ingredients
- 1 whole beef brisket (10-12 lbs), untrimmed
- 1/4 cup kosher salt
- 1/4 cup black pepper
- 1/4 cup paprika
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
- Optional: Wood chunks for smoking (oak or hickory)
Cooking Instructions
- Trim the brisket, leaving a 1/4 inch layer of fat on top. This fat cap will melt and tenderize the meat.
- Combine kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a bowl to create a rub.
- Generously coat the brisket with the rub. Make sure to get it into every nook and cranny.
- Wrap the brisket in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours.
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Use oak or hickory wood chunks for authentic Texas flavor.
- Place the brisket on the smoker, fat side up. Close the lid and smoke for 8-10 hours until internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C).
- Wrap the brisket in butcher paper or aluminum foil and return to the smoker. Let it smoke for an additional 2 hours.
- Remove the brisket and let it rest for at least 1 hour before slicing against the grain.
Suggestions
- Alternative Ingredients: Swap paprika for smoked paprika for an extra smoky punch. Try adding brown sugar for a sweeter rub.
- Garnishing Options: Top with pickled jalapeños, sliced onions, or a drizzle of BBQ sauce.
- Cooking Tips: Using a meat thermometer is non-negotiable for perfect results. Don’t rush the resting period—it allows juices to redistribute!