Ive dubbed it "hot & slow"
Its important when developing a personal bbq style to do things that are comfortable and repeatable. Taking into account my flavor preference, sleep schedule, and when i like to eat brisket ive tailored a way of doing things that not only produces a great brisket but keeps the whole process enjoyable.
I much prefer Q from the stick burner but am not a fan of the all nighter. I also would rather eat brisket earlier than in the evening so starting early in the morning and running hot isnt best for me. In questing for a tender juicy brisket i was intrigued by how top Q joints hot hold their food for long periods. Soon the logical plan (for me) started to form.
The method is simple. After 4-6 hours on the offset, when its time to wrap, foil, or pan i switch over to the oven. This allows for 2 crucial things. 1st is sleep. I just feel better when i get some. I enjoy relaxing by the cooker having a beer but not until the sun comes up. 2nd is i can go low, giving time for the magic to happen. The okie joe just doesnt hold 225 very well for me. I get up early and check on it. Its not much for me to do as i tend to stir about every few hours anyway. Once its tender i can turn the oven down to hold for a few hours then rest in a cooler until lunch.
Heres the 14+lbs brisket i did last night.
I dont usually get them this big, it was a beast. I used my signature rub on it.
Ninja's Flash Powder
1 part Kosher salt
1 part coarse salt
3.5 parts Coarse black pepper
1 Lemon pepper
1 turbinado sugar
1 smoked paprika
.5 chipolte
.5 cayenne
A nice oak fire, wood courtesy of DD. I tried to maintain 275-300 on the dial.
After 5 hrs i had enough...and so did the brisket. Time to wrap
This time i used butcher paper. Ive had good results recently using a covered pan. It could be wrapped however you want, i suppose it doesnt have to even be wrapped.
I run 225 until it just starts to get tender than drop it down to 200 until i like it. Ill hold it at 180 for an hour or so before transfering immediately to a cooler where it can easily hold another 4 hrs.
The slow finish really gives a large window of perfection.
This way works for me. Its repeatable and more importantly its a process i can enjoy, one that fits my life. That is my advice, find what works for you and keeps you happy. Be it this way or your own.
