Are you ready to transform your backyard barbecue game and impress everyone with a mouthwatering, authentic Texas-style beef brisket? This legendary Denton recipe is not just a meal—it's a culinary journey that captures the heart and soul of authentic American barbecue. Imagine tender, smoky meat that practically melts in your mouth, infused with a perfect blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a weekend grilling enthusiast, this brisket recipe will elevate your cooking skills and transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Texas.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 5 hrs
Total Time: 5 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole beef brisket (about 5-6 lbs)
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- Wood chips for smoking
Instructions
- Remove the beef brisket from refrigerator 1 hour before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature, which ensures more even cooking.
- Trim excess hard fat from the brisket, leaving about 1/4 inch of fat cap on one side to help keep the meat moist during long smoking process.
- Mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl to create a dry rub seasoning.
- Pat the brisket dry with paper towels and generously coat entire surface with the prepared dry rub, massaging the spices into the meat.
- Prepare smoker or grill for indirect low-temperature cooking, targeting 225-250°F. Use oak or mesquite wood chips for authentic Texas-style flavor.
- Place brisket fat-side up on the smoker rack, ensuring indirect heat exposure. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the brisket.
- Smoke the brisket slowly, maintaining consistent temperature, for approximately 5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 195-205°F.
- During smoking, spritz the brisket with water or beef broth every hour to prevent drying and enhance moisture.
- Once target temperature is reached, wrap brisket in butcher paper or aluminum foil and let rest for 30-45 minutes to redistribute juices.
- Slice against the grain into 1/4 inch thick slices and serve with your favorite barbecue sauce on the side.
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Maintain a consistent low temperature (225-250°F) for tender, juicy results.
- Patience Matters: Low and slow cooking is the secret to a perfect brisket—don't rush the process.
- Meat Selection: Choose a high-quality brisket with good marbling for maximum flavor.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let your brisket rest after cooking to redistribute juices.
- Wood Chip Selection: Oak or mesquite chips provide the most authentic Texas barbecue flavor.
- Moisture is Essential: Spritz the meat every hour to prevent drying and enhance tenderness.
- Invest in a Good Meat Thermometer: Precise temperature tracking ensures perfect doneness.
- Slice Against the Grain: This technique guarantees the most tender, easy-to-chew bites.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg

