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Perfect Smoked Brisket

Enjoy a deliciously tender and smoky brisket made with just a few ingredients, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 10 hours
Total Time 11 hours
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Barbecue
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 10 pounds beef brisket, with the point attached
  • 1/2 cup kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup black pepper

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Remove the brisket from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Transfer to a cutting board.
  2. Trim away some fat from the brisket, leaving an even layer of 1/4 inch across the brisket. Discard any hard fat pieces.
  3. Allow meat to come to room temperature, about 1 hour.
  4. Season liberally with salt and pepper, using a mix of fine and coarse salt and pepper.
Cooking
  1. Preheat the smoker to 225°F.
  2. Place the brisket directly on a rack in the smoker and cook for about 1 hour per pound, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
  3. Remove from smoker, wrap tightly in butcher paper, and continue smoking until the internal temperature reaches 195°F.
  4. Allow the beef to rest for at least 30 minutes. Slice and serve as desired.

Notes

For best results, use a mix of coarse and fine salt and pepper for both crust and depth of taste. Store cooled brisket in an airtight container or wrapped tightly. It will last 3 to 4 days in the fridge and 2 to 3 months in the freezer.