🍖 Beef Brisket

This **Beef Brisket** is tender, juicy, and packed with rich, smoky flavor — slow-cooked to perfection until it falls apart with a fork. Whether you're using a crockpot, oven, or smoker, this classic comfort meal is perfect for Sunday dinners, holidays, or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

• 1 (8–10 lb) whole packer brisket (or flat cut)
• 2 tbsp coarse kosher salt
• 2 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup beef broth or water (for braising)
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (optional, for moisture)

Instructions

1. Trim the fat: Leave about 1/4 inch of fat on top of the brisket for flavor and moisture.
2. Season generously: Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne. Rub all over the brisket.
3. Choose your cooking method:
   • Oven: Place brisket fat-side up in a roasting pan. Add broth and vinegar. Cover tightly with foil. Cook at 275°F (135°C) for 6–8 hours until fork-tender.
   • Crockpot: Place in slow cooker with broth. Cook on Low for 8–10 hours.
   • Smoker: Smoke at 225°F (107°C) for 1.5 hours per pound, wrapping in butcher paper or foil after 4–5 hours (the "Texas crutch").
4. Rest the meat: Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for 30–60 minutes before slicing.
5. Slice against the grain: Cut thin slices across the grain for maximum tenderness.
6. Serve: With pan juices, BBQ sauce, or au jus. Great with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread!

Tip: Make ahead! Brisket tastes even better the next day. Reheat slices gently in broth to keep them moist.

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