A smoked brisket platter is a true barbecue masterpiece, featuring tender, juicy, and smoky beef brisket served with classic sides. Perfect for family gatherings or weekend cookouts, this dish takes time but is well worth the effort.

Ingredients:

For the Brisket:

1 whole beef brisket (10-12 pounds)

1/4 cup kosher salt

1/4 cup black pepper

2 tablespoons garlic powder

2 tablespoons paprika

1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

1 tablespoon onion powder

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1/4 cup yellow mustard or olive oil (for binding the rub)

Wood chips or chunks (oak, hickory, or mesquite)

For the Mop Sauce (Optional):

1 cup apple cider vinegar

1/2 cup beef broth

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

For Serving:

BBQ sauce

Sliced pickles

Sliced white onions

Coleslaw

Baked beans

Texas toast or cornbread

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Brisket

  1. Trim the brisket, removing excess fat while leaving about 1/4 inch for moisture retention.

  2. Rub mustard or olive oil over the brisket to help the seasoning adhere.

  3. Mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, onion powder, and brown sugar in a bowl.

  4. Generously coat the brisket with the seasoning mix, pressing it into the meat.

  5. Let the brisket sit at room temperature while preparing the smoker.

Step 2: Smoke the Brisket

  1. Preheat the smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add wood chunks for smoke flavor.

  2. Place the brisket fat-side up on the smoker grates.

  3. Smoke for 6-8 hours, spritzing with the mop sauce every hour to keep it moist.

  4. When the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), wrap the brisket in butcher paper or foil and return it to the smoker.

  5. Continue smoking until the internal temperature reaches 200-205°F (93-96°C), about 4-6 more hours.

Step 3: Rest and Slice

  1. Remove the brisket from the smoker and let it rest, wrapped, for at least 1 hour.

  2. Slice against the grain into thin pieces for tender bites.

Step 4: Assemble the Platter

  1. Arrange brisket slices on a large platter.

  2. Serve with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and pickles.

  3. Drizzle or serve with BBQ sauce on the side.


Tips for the Best Smoked Brisket

Low and slow cooking ensures a tender brisket.

Use a meat thermometer to monitor doneness accurately.

Let the brisket rest for juicy and flavorful results.

Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Enjoy this smoky and flavorful brisket platter with all your favorite barbecue sides!