The Best Brisket Brine Recipe for Tender and Flavorful Smoked Brisket

The process of brining and smoking a brisket brings out unparalleled flavors and tenderness in the meat, making it a highlight of any barbecue session. This guide will walk you through the steps to create a perfect brined and smoked brisket, drawing inspiration from Traeger’s tried-and-true methods.

Ingredients

To serve four, you will need:

• 6 quarts of boiling water
• 1 cup of light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup of kosher salt
• 6 cups of ice
• 1 flat-cut brisket (5-7 lbs)
• 1/4 cup of Traeger Beef Rub
• Mesquite BBQ wood pellets

Preparation Steps

1. Brining the Brisket:

   • Dissolve the kosher salt and light brown sugar in the boiling water.
   • Add the ice to cool the brine to room temperature.
   • Submerge the brisket in the brine, cover it, and refrigerate overnight.

2. Seasoning:

   • Remove the brisket from the brine and pat dry with paper towels.
   • Evenly season the brisket with Traeger Beef Rub.

3. Smoking:

   • Preheat the Traeger grill to 250°F with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
   • Insert the probe into the thickest part of the brisket and place it fat-side down on the grill.
   • Smoke for 3 hours at 250°F.

4. Cooking:

   • Wrap the brisket in a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
   • Increase the grill temperature to 275°F and cook for another 3-4 hours until the internal temperature reaches 204°F.

5. Finishing Touches:

   • Unwrap the brisket and return it to the grill for an additional 30 minutes to enhance the bark.
   • Let the brisket rest for 15 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Tips and Tricks

• Choosing the Right Brisket: Select a brisket with good marbling and a uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.

• Brine Time: Allowing the brisket to brine overnight is crucial for deep flavor infusion and tenderization.

• Wood Choice: Mesquite wood pellets impart a rich, smoky flavor that complements the beefy brisket perfectly.

Conclusion

Brining and smoking a brisket is a labor of love that pays off with every succulent, flavorful bite. By following these detailed steps, you can elevate your barbecue skills and impress your guests with a perfectly brined and smoked brisket. Happy grilling!