Mission BBQ Brisket Recipe

Brisket lovers, this one’s for you!

After many trial and error sessions, I’ve got the ultimate Mission BBQ Brisket Recipe.

The key trick is mastering the 3 2 1 method: smoke the brisket uncovered for three hours, wrap it for two hours, then a final hour without the wrap.

Using a good quality brisket with ample marbling is important for optimal results.

I’ll also share some insights on temperature control and wood selection for the best smoke!

How to Make Mission BBQ Brisket

Ingredients

• 1 whole Brisket (8-10 lb., trimmed)
• 2 tbsp Salt
• 2 tbsp Black Pepper
• 2 tbsp Paprika
• 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tbsp Onion Powder
• 1 cup Beef Broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Mix salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl.

Rub the entire brisket evenly with the spice mixture.

Step 2:

Place the rubbed brisket on a baking sheet.

Cover it and let stand in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or up to 6 hours.

Step 3:

Preheat your smoker or grill to 225°F (you’ll be using indirect heat).

Add a drip pan beneath the grates to maintain moisture.

Use wood chunks or chips for flavor: Mission BBQ-style brisket pairs well with oak, hickory, or a mix of oak and fruitwoods like cherry or apple.

Step 4:

Place the brisket on the smoker, fat side up, for optimal flavor and moisture retention.

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the brisket to monitor temperature.

Smoke the brisket for 6-8 hours, spritzing it with apple cider vinegar or beef broth every 1-2 hours to keep it moist.

Step 5:

Once the internal temperature reaches 165°F, wrap the brisket tightly in butcher paper or aluminum foil.

This helps retain moisture and prevents the bark from getting too hard.

Return the wrapped brisket to the smoker and continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 203°F.

Step 6:

Remove the brisket from the smoker and let it rest, still wrapped, for at least 1-2 hours.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choose the Right Brisket

Make sure to select a brisket with a good amount of marbling for enhanced flavor and tenderness throughout the meat.

Be Patient with the Cooking Process

Keep a close eye on the grill temperature to maintain a consistent 225°F, ensuring the brisket cooks evenly.

Use Quality Wood Chips

Choose a high-quality wood like hickory or oak to add a nice, rich smoky flavor to your brisket.

Let It Rest Before Slicing

Allow the brisket to rest for at least 30 minutes after cooking so that the juices redistribute evenly.

Customize Your Spice Rub

Experiment with the spice rub by adding a bit of cayenne pepper for extra heat if you like your brisket spicy!

What to Serve with Mission BBQ Brisket

Coleslaw

Coleslaw is a classic choice with brisket due to its crunchy texture and tangy flavor that perfectly contrasts the rich meat.

You can mix traditional cabbage with carrots or add some apple slices for a refreshing twist.

A touch of vinegar or lemon juice in the dressing can further enhance the flavors.

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs wonderfully with brisket.

Their smoothness balances out the texture of the meat.

Feel free to add garlic or cheese for added richness if you’re feeling adventurous!

Pickled Vegetables

Pickled vegetables, like pickles or pickled red onions, offer a zingy contrast.

They cut through the meatiness of the brisket, providing a nice burst of flavor.

Try pickling them yourself at home with simple ingredients like vinegar, sugar, and spices.

Corn Fritters

Corn fritters add some crispy goodness to your meal.

They’re not just a Southern thing; they provide a sweet and savory crunch that complements the brisket beautifully.

Consider adding some jalapeños or cheddar cheese to the batter for an extra kick.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Roasted root vegetables bring a different flavor profile to the table.

Try roasting carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes with olive oil and herbs.

They offer a sweet, earthy touch that matches well with the bold flavors of brisket.

Avocado and Black Bean Salad

Avocado and black bean salad can be an unusual yet refreshing side.

The creaminess of avocado combined with the hearty beans and a lime vinaigrette can be a wonderful complement.

This side adds a slight Mediterranean twist to your brisket dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Finding fun alternatives to Mission BBQ brisket can open up new flavor experiences.

Pork Shoulder

Pork shoulder is a great substitute if you want a change! It’s packed with flavor and matches brisket in weight and texture.

Lamb Shoulder

Lamb shoulder offers a rich and juicy alternative. It works well in stews and slow-cooked dishes.

Spice Variations

Feel like experimenting? Consider using your favorite spice rubs. Coffee rubs add a unique earthy flavor!

Wood Chips

Swap out those wood chips to match your desired flavor profile! Apple and cherry wood impart a sweet smoke that’s simply amazing.

Creative Leftovers

Leftover brisket can easily become the star of tacos, nachos, or sandwiches. Transform your meal and enjoy it in a brand-new form!

Explore these variations, and you’ll find new favorites to enjoy over and over.

How to Store Leftover Brisket

When it comes to leftovers, storing brisket the right way keeps it fresh and tasty!

Keep your leftover brisket moist by adding leftover juices to the storage container.

Refrigeration Tips

First, if you plan to eat your brisket within three to four days, simply refrigerate it.

Place the brisket in airtight containers or wrap it tightly in foil to avoid drying out.

Freezing for Later

For long-term storage, freezing brisket is a great option.

Wrap the brisket first in foil and then in a freezer bag to keep the flavor locked in.

Properly stored, your brisket can last up to three months in the freezer.

Label and Date

Always remember to label the storage with the date for easy reference.

This helps you keep track of how long the brisket has been stored.

You’re ensuring you enjoy the best taste and quality!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Temperature Fluctuations

One common mistake is failing to maintain a consistent temperature.

You should aim to keep your smoker between 225°F and 275°F for even cooking.

Temperature spikes or drops can lead to a dry brisket, and nobody wants that!

Insufficient Seasoning

Another big mistake involves not seasoning your brisket enough.

You want every inch of that brisket covered in rub so you get flavor in every bite.

I’ve found that freshly ground pepper and a good store-bought BBQ rub work wonders.

Not Knowing When It’s Done

A brisket that’s not cooked enough will feel too firm, while overcooked brisket could be mushy.

Your brisket is done when the meat feels tender like warm butter.

It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer for accuracy.