Savory and Smoky BBQ Recipes for Summer Grilling

Ingredients

  • 4 pounds of beef brisket
  • 2 cups of BBQ sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon of paprika
  • 1 tablespoon of chili powder
  • 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon of onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup of water

Steps and instructions

  1. Trim the excess fat from the beef brisket. Leave about a 1/4 inch of fat for flavor.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Rub the spice mixture all over the beef brisket.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the brisket and sear on all sides until browned.
  5. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
  6. Place the seared brisket on the grill. Pour the BBQ sauce and water over the brisket.
  7. Close the lid of the grill and cook for about 4 hours, or until the brisket is tender and has reached an internal temperature of 190 degrees Fahrenheit.
  8. Remove the brisket from the grill and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
  9. Drizzle the remaining BBQ sauce over the brisket, slice and serve.

Tools for making

  • Grill - A grill will be needed to cook the brisket.
  • Large pot - A large pot will be used to sear the brisket before grilling.
  • Small bowl - A small bowl will be used to mix the spices for the rub.
  • Tongs - Tongs will be necessary for flipping the brisket on the grill.
  • Measuring cups and spoons - Measuring cups and spoons will be needed to accurately measure the ingredients.
  • Basting brush - A basting brush will be used to apply the BBQ sauce and water mixture to the brisket.
  • Meat thermometer - A meat thermometer will be needed to check the internal temperature of the brisket.

Recipe variations

  • Substitute beef brisket with pork shoulder for a different flavor and texture.
  • Experiment with different BBQ sauces like honey mustard, Carolina-style, or spicy chipotle.
  • Add a dry rub of your choice before applying the BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
  • Try smoking the brisket instead of grilling it for a smokier taste.
  • For a vegetarian option, substitute the brisket with portobello mushrooms or tofu and marinate in a BBQ sauce of your choice.
  • Add diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapenos to the BBQ sauce for added flavor and texture.
  • Wrap the brisket in foil or butcher paper during the cooking process for a Texas-style BBQ.
  • Mix different types of wood chips or chunks for smoking to experiment with different flavors.
  • Serve the BBQ brisket on a bun with coleslaw and pickles for a classic BBQ sandwich.
  • For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the spice rub.

Recipe overview

This BBQ Beef Brisket recipe is a crowd-pleaser that is perfect for a summer cookout or a family dinner. This meal is infused with a blend of spices and smothered in a tangy and savory BBQ sauce which gives the beef a complex, mouth-watering flavor. The beef is first seared in a pot, then slow-cooked on a grill to achieve a juicy and tender texture. The recipe takes about 4 hours to cook, and serves 10-12 people. Whether you're a BBQ veteran or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your BBQ cravings.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to cook the brisket? The brisket needs to be cooked for about 4 hours on the grill, or until it is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 190 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Can I use a different type of meat? While this recipe is specifically designed for beef brisket, you can also use pork shoulder or chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  3. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce? Yes, you can use store-bought BBQ sauce for convenience. However, homemade BBQ sauce can add a unique flavor to the dish.
  4. Can I marinate the brisket overnight? Yes, marinating the brisket overnight can enhance the flavor. Simply wrap the seasoned brisket tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it overnight before cooking.
  5. What should I do if the brisket is not tender enough after 4 hours? If the brisket is not tender enough, you can continue cooking it on low heat until it reaches the desired tenderness. You can also wrap it in foil and cook it in the oven at a low temperature until tender.
  6. Can I use a gas grill instead of charcoal? Yes, you can use a gas grill instead of a charcoal grill. Just make sure to preheat the gas grill to medium heat before placing the brisket on it.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Grill - A grill is essential for cooking the beef brisket.
  • Large Pot - You'll need a large pot for searing the brisket before grilling.
  • Tongs - Tongs are useful for flipping and handling the brisket on the grill.
  • Basting Brush - A basting brush is handy for applying the BBQ sauce to the brisket.
  • Meat Thermometer - A meat thermometer is necessary for checking the internal temperature of the brisket.
  • Cutting Board - A cutting board is needed for resting and slicing the cooked brisket.
  • Sharp Knife - A sharp knife is essential for slicing the brisket.
  • Serving Platter - A serving platter is useful for presenting the sliced brisket.

Origin stories

BBQ, or barbeque, has deep roots in American history, particularly in the Southern states. The tradition of slow-cooking meat over a fire can be traced back to indigenous tribes long before European settlers arrived. These native techniques were then adopted and adapted by the settlers, evolving into the BBQ we know and love today. A fun fact to chew on while enjoying your BBQ brisket is that the term "barbeque" itself has an interesting etymology. It's derived from the Spanish word 'barbacoa', a term Columbus came across in the Caribbean which referred to the natives' method of slow-cooking meat on a wooden platform over an open fire. So while you're savoring the smoky, rich flavors of your homemade BBQ, take a moment to appreciate the deep cultural and historical melting pot that has contributed to this beloved culinary tradition.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.