When it comes to barbecue, few things can rival the mouthwatering, smoky perfection of a Texas-style brisket. Texas barbecue is all about slow cooking, a special blend of spices, and a deep love for the craft.

If you’re ready to embark on a flavorful journey through the Lone Star State, you’re in for a treat. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to master the art of Texas barbecue with our ultimate brisket recipe.

Ingredients of Texas barbecue brisket recipe

Brisket:

12 to 14 pounds of whole beef brisket, preferably USDA Prime or Choice grade.

Dry Rub:

1/4 cup kosher salt
1/4 cup coarse black pepper
2 tablespoons paprika

2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons onion powder
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)

Mop Sauce:

2 cups apple cider vinegar
1 cup water
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

1/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tablespoons dry rub

Wood for Smoking:

Post oak or mesquite wood chunks or chips.

Instructions for Texas barbecue brisket recipe

1. Preparing the Brisket:

Trim excess fat from the brisket, leaving about 1/4 inch of fat on one side.
Combine all dry rub ingredients in a bowl and generously season the brisket on both sides. Pat the rub onto the meat, ensuring it adheres.

2. Fire up the Smoker:

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C). Texas barbecue is all about low and slow cooking, so maintaining a steady temperature is key.

Use post-oak or mesquite wood for an authentic Texas flavor. Soak the wood chunks or chips in water for about 30 minutes before adding them to the smoker.

3. Smoking the Brisket:

Place the seasoned brisket, fat side up, on the smoker grates.
Maintain a consistent temperature of 225°F (110°C) throughout the smoking process.

Smoke the brisket for approximately 1.5 hours per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195-205°F (90-96°C). This can take anywhere from 10 to 14 hours, so be patient.

4. Mopping the Brisket:

Every hour, mix the mop sauce ingredients and lightly mop the brisket to keep it moist and add flavor.

5. Resting and Slicing:

Once the brisket reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the smoker and wrap it in foil or butcher paper.

Let it rest for at least an hour to allow the juices to redistribute.
Slice the brisket against the grain for tender, juicy slices.

6. Serving:

Serve your Texas barbecue brisket with classic accompaniments like white bread, pickles, onions, and your favorite barbecue sauce.

Conclusion

There’s no denying that Texas barbecue brisket is a labor of love, but the results are well worth the effort. The smoky, tender, and flavorful meat that emerges from your smoker will be a hit at any gathering.

So, fire up your smoker, follow this recipe, and experience the true taste of Texas barbecue. Your taste buds will thank you for it!