Grill your way to corned beef brisket perfection: an expert’s guide

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this comprehensive guide on how to grill corned beef brisket. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice, this step-by-step tutorial will empower you to create a succulent, flavorful brisket that will impress your family and friends.

Selecting the Perfect Brisket

The key to a great grilled corned beef brisket lies in selecting a high-quality cut of meat. Look for a brisket that is well-marbled with fat and weighs between 6 and 8 pounds. The fat will render during cooking, adding flavor and tenderness to the brisket.

Trimming the Brisket (Optional)

Some prefer to trim the excess fat from the brisket before grilling. If you choose to do this, use a sharp knife to remove any large pieces of fat, but leave a thin layer intact to prevent the brisket from drying out.

Preparing the Brisket

Before grilling, rinse the brisket thoroughly with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the brisket generously with your favorite spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also add a dry rub if desired.

Choosing the Right Grill

Use a charcoal or gas grill with a lid. A charcoal grill will impart a smoky flavor to the brisket, while a gas grill offers more precise temperature control.

Preparing the Grill

Preheat the grill to 225-250 degrees Fahrenheit. If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals in an indirect grilling zone, with the brisket placed in the center. If using a gas grill, turn off the burners on one side of the grill and place the brisket on that side.

Grilling the Brisket

Place the brisket on the grill and cook it over indirect heat. Cook for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wrapping the Brisket (Optional)

For extra tenderness, you can wrap the brisket in butcher paper or aluminum foil after 3-4 hours of cooking. This will help to retain moisture and speed up the cooking process.

Resting the Brisket

Once the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, remove the brisket from the grill and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful brisket.

Slicing and Serving

Slice the brisket against the grain into thin slices. Serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw.

Finishing Touches

For an extra burst of flavor, you can brush the brisket with barbecue sauce or a glaze of your choice before slicing and serving.

Tips for Grilling Corned Beef Brisket

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the brisket reaches the desired internal temperature.
• If the brisket starts to burn, move it to a cooler part of the grill or raise the grill grate.
• Don’t overcook the brisket, as it will become tough.
• Let the brisket rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
• Serve the brisket with your favorite sides and condiments.

FAQ

Q: How long does it take to grill corned beef brisket?
A: It takes approximately 6-8 hours to grill a corned beef brisket to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: Can I grill corned beef brisket without wrapping it?
A: Yes, you can grill corned beef brisket without wrapping it. However, wrapping the brisket in butcher paper or aluminum foil can help to retain moisture and speed up the cooking process.

Q: What is the best way to slice corned beef brisket?
A: Slice the brisket against the grain into thin slices. This will help to ensure that the meat is tender and flavorful.