Smoked brisket is a classic dish that is loved by BBQ enthusiasts all around the world. The combination of tender meat, smoky flavor, and delicious seasoning makes it a go-to choice for any BBQ lover. While many people think that smoking brisket requires a fancy smoker, the truth is that you can achieve amazing results using a regular BBQ grill. In this article, we will guide you through the process of smoking brisket on a BBQ, from preparation to serving.
Can You Smoke Brisket Directly on the Grill?
Yes, you can smoke brisket directly on a grill. To do this, you need to prepare your kettle grill for smoking with indirect heat. Start by stacking three layers of unlit charcoal briquettes around the perimeter of the grill's bottom rack, leaving the front 4-5 inches without charcoal to create a c shape. This setup allows for indirect heat and ensures that the brisket cooks evenly.
Add 3-4 chunks of your favorite smoking wood to the beginning of the c to infuse the meat with a perfect touch of smoke without overwhelming it. Place a disposable aluminum half pan in the center of the charcoal ring and fill it with water. This provides additional moisture and protects the brisket from direct heat while it smokes.
Heat 5-6 charcoal briquettes separately and place them at the beginning of the c (the end with the wood chunks) once they are completely ashed over. Cover the grill and allow it to heat to 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit, adjusting the grill's bottom vents as needed to maintain the desired temperature.
While the grill is heating up, prepare the brisket by trimming all but ΒΌ inch of fat from the brisket flat, as well as any silverskin that remains on the opposite side of the brisket. Combine your preferred dry ingredients in a small mixing bowl and coat the exterior of the brisket with a thin layer of yellow mustard. This helps the dry rub seasoning adhere to the meat better. Liberally season the brisket with the coffee dry rub seasoning.
Place the seasoned brisket on the grill directly above the aluminum half pan. Cover the grill and allow the brisket to smoke until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Depending on the size of the brisket, this can take 10+ hours. If needed, add additional unlit charcoal briquettes in a layered semi-circle next to the remaining hot coals.
Once the brisket reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, remove it from the grill and wrap it tightly in a double layer of aluminum foil, creating a bowl shape. Add beef broth to the foil to provide moisture and completely enclose the brisket. Return the wrapped brisket to the grill and continue cooking until it reaches an internal temperature of 190 degrees Fahrenheit. To monitor the internal temperatures of the meat, it is recommended to use a remote thermometer.
Remove the cooked brisket from the grill, slowly open the foil to allow the steam to escape, and let the brisket rest for 15-20 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful brisket. After resting, separate the brisket flat from the point, trim any excess fat, and slice the brisket flat against the natural grain of the meat for maximum tenderness. The fattier brisket point can be sliced and served as is or cubed, re-seasoned, and returned to the grill for 20-30 minutes to make delicious burnt ends.
Can You Cook Brisket on a Normal BBQ?
Absolutely! You don't need a fancy smoker to make BBQ brisket. You can use your regular BBQ grill to create a mouthwatering brisket with smoky flavors. To start, you'll need to infuse the meat with a savory-sweet dry rub. It is recommended to let the dry-rubbed brisket sit for at least 20 minutes before grilling. For even more flavor, you can refrigerate the dry-rubbed brisket uncovered for up to 24 hours.
The key to grilling BBQ brisket on a regular BBQ grill is to set up two heat zones. Start by searing the brisket over direct flame to caramelize the meat. This step adds a delicious crust and locks in the juices. Then, move the brisket to a burners-off cool zone on the grill, where it will slowly cook for a few more hours. This setup mimics the temperature environment of a cold smoker and ensures super tender brisket meat.
Pro tip: Don't discard any juices that collect in the foil while cooking the brisket. These juices are infused with flavor and can be stirred into your homemade BBQ sauce for an extra burst of taste.
If you have leftovers, refrigerate the extra meat in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Slice off one or two servings at a time to keep it juicy and enjoy the deliciousness of BBQ brisket even after the initial cookout.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to smoke a brisket on a BBQ grill?
The cooking time for smoking a brisket on a BBQ grill can vary depending on the size of the brisket and the temperature of the grill. On average, it can take 10+ hours at a temperature of 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I use any type of wood for smoking brisket?
Yes, you can use any type of smoking wood that you prefer. Popular choices include hickory, mesquite, oak, and fruitwoods like apple or cherry. Each type of wood imparts a unique flavor to the brisket.
How do I know if the brisket is done?
The best way to determine if the brisket is done is by checking its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. The brisket is typically done when it reaches an internal temperature of 190 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the meat should feel tender when probed with a fork or meat thermometer.
Can I smoke a brisket without using a dry rub?
While using a dry rub enhances the flavor of the brisket, you can still smoke it without one. However, using a dry rub adds an extra layer of taste and helps create a delicious crust on the meat.
In Conclusion
Smoking brisket on a BBQ grill is a fantastic way to enjoy this classic BBQ dish. With the right preparation and cooking techniques, you can achieve tender and flavorful brisket with a beautiful smoky aroma. Whether you choose to smoke the brisket directly on the grill or cook it using two heat zones, the result will surely impress your family and friends. So, fire up your BBQ grill, grab a brisket, and get ready to indulge in the mouthwatering goodness of smoked brisket!
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