Smoked Brisket with Maple Chipotle Glaze

This smoked brisket recipe combines traditional slow-smoking techniques with a creative maple chipotle glaze that adds a sweet and smoky dimension to the dish. The brisket is tender and juicy, making it a perfect centerpiece for any gathering. This recipe respects traditional culinary principles while introducing a unique flavor profile that enhances the natural richness of the beef.

Ingredients:

• 4-5 lbs beef brisket
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• Wood chips for smoking (hickory or oak)

Instructions:

1. 1. Prepare the brisket by trimming excess fat, leaving about 1/4 inch for flavor.
2. 2. In a bowl, mix the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub this spice blend all over the brisket. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
3. 3. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and soak the wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes.
4. 4. Place the brisket in the smoker, fat side up, and add the soaked wood chips to the smoker box.
5. 5. Smoke the brisket for about 6-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F (90°C) for tender slices. Keep the smoker closed as much as possible to maintain temperature.
6. 6. While the brisket is smoking, prepare the maple chipotle glaze by combining maple syrup, minced chipotle, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. 7. In the last hour of smoking, brush the glaze over the brisket every 20 minutes to build flavor and create a sticky coating.
8. 8. Once done, remove the brisket from the smoker and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing against the grain.