Take your barbecue game to the next level with this Smoked Corned Beef recipe! Perfectly tender and packed with smoky, tangy flavors, this dish combines the richness of corned beef brisket with the bold punch of Carolina-Style Barbecue Sauce and Unkie’s Seasoning. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or indulging in a weekend cooking project, this recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
Prep & Cook Times
- Prep Time: 8 hours (soaking) + 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours
- Total Time: 13 hours
- Serving Size: Serves 6-8
Ingredients
- 1 (3 lb) flat-cut corned beef brisket, fat cap at least ¼ inch thick
- 2-2.5 cups Carolina-Style Barbecue Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Favorite Unkie’s Seasoning Blend
Instructions
- Soak the Brisket
- Remove the corned beef from its packaging and discard the spice packet. Soak the brisket in water for at least 8 hours, changing the water every 2 hours to reduce the saltiness.
- Preheat the Smoker
- Set the smoker to 275°F and preheat with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
- Season the Brisket
- Pat the brisket dry and lightly coat all sides with Unkie’s Seasoning Blend for a flavorful crust.
- Begin Smoking
- Insert a temperature probe into the thickest part of the brisket. Place the brisket fat-side up directly on the grill grates. Close the lid and smoke for 2 hours.
- Prepare the Sauce
- While the brisket is smoking, prepare your Carolina-Style Barbecue Sauce or use your favorite barbecue sauce.
- Braise the Brisket
- Pour half of the barbecue sauce into the bottom of a disposable aluminum foil pan. Transfer the brisket to the pan, fat-side up. Pour the remaining barbecue sauce over the brisket and spread evenly. Cover the pan tightly with foil.
- Finish Cooking
- Return the pan to the smoker and reinsert the probe. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 203°F, about 2-3 hours more.
- Rest and Serve
- Remove the brisket from the smoker and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. Slice against the grain into ¼-inch thick slices and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Soaking Tip: Don’t skip soaking the corned beef—it’s essential to reduce saltiness and balance flavors.
- Perfect Smoke: Use hickory or oak wood pellets for a robust smoky flavor.
- Resting Matters: Allow the brisket to rest after cooking for optimal tenderness.
Equipment Needed
- Smoker
- Disposable aluminum foil pan
- Temperature probe
- Aluminum foil
- Tongs
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Storage: Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat slices gently in the oven at 300°F, covered with foil, or in a skillet over low heat.
Call to Action
Take your barbecue to the next level with this Smoked Corned Beef recipe! Pair it with Carolina-Style Barbecue Sauce for a flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Share your smoky creations with #UnkiesSeasoning and inspire others to try this bold recipe!