Contest tips for brisket flats

[kcquer]

Solidkick has invited me to join the Belly Boys BBQ team at the Boone County Cookoff this weekend. We're planning on cooking flats. I usually cook packers. Any words of wisdom on trimmed flats would be greatly appreciated.

[jminion]

Trim almost no fat on the fat cap side. On the other side with fillet knife trim silver skin off and that's it. I would cook fat side down for at least the half the cook if not all the cook.

[BBQchef33]

What about a layer of additional beef fat that your butcher would be glad to give you. I usually use bacon, but after this weekend learned to use noting that would change the flavor. If you dont have a decent fat cap on it, add some thin slices on top.

[jminion]

Adding bacon or fat can help and cooking a butt over the brisket helps also.
Jim

[kcquer]

I would cook fat side down for at least the half the cook if not all the cook.

Jim, if only half, beginning or end? Consider I have trouble finishing my bark when you answer. Thanks.