Smoky Coffee-Rubbed Grilled Brisket

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 6 hours
🍽 Serves: 10
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Get ready to elevate your grilling game with a smoky coffee-rubbed brisket that's as bold as it is tender. This recipe combines rich coffee and smoky spices to create a crust that's irresistibly flavorful. It's perfect for those who love a bit of adventure on their plate.

Ingredients for Smoky Coffee-Rubbed Grilled Brisket

Beef brisket is the star of the show, a cut that becomes incredibly tender with slow cooking. Coffee grounds add a unique depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the smokiness of the grill. Smoked paprika enhances the smoky profile, while brown sugar lends a hint of sweetness to balance the flavors. Kosher salt and black pepper bring out the natural flavors of the meat. Garlic powder and onion powder add savory notes, and a touch of cayenne pepper provides a subtle kick. Olive oil helps the rub adhere to the meat and aids in forming a crust. Apple cider vinegar and beef stock are used for basting, keeping the brisket moist and adding a tangy depth.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure precise cooking.
  • Resting is crucial; don't skip it unless you enjoy dry brisket.
  • For an extra smoky flavor, add wood chips to your grill.
  • Prepare the rub in advance and store in an airtight container for future use.

Serving Suggestions

This brisket pairs perfectly with a fresh coleslaw or a warm potato salad. For something a bit different, try serving it on a toasted bun with pickles and your favorite BBQ sauce. A side of grilled vegetables can also complement the robust flavors of the brisket beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use an oven instead of a grill?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 275°F and follow the same cooking instructions.
What kind of coffee should I use?
Go for a medium to dark roast for the best flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely. Cook the brisket a day ahead and reheat it gently in a low oven.

Smoky Coffee-Rubbed Grilled Brisket Recipe Walkthrough

Start by mixing your rub: combine the coffee grounds, smoked paprika, brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. This mixture will be your brisket's best friend. Lay your brisket out on a clean surface, pat it dry, and generously rub the spice mix all over, pressing it in firmly. Drizzle some olive oil over the top and give it another good rub to ensure everything's nicely coated. Cover your brisket and let it sit in the fridge for at least 4 hours, although overnight is best if you can swing it.

When you're ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-low heat, aiming for around 275°F. Place the brisket on the grill, fat side up, and cover. This positioning allows the fat to baste the meat as it cooks. Now, patience is key. Let the brisket cook for about 6 hours, keeping the grill at a consistent temperature. Baste it occasionally with a mix of apple cider vinegar and beef stock to lock in moisture and flavor. You’re aiming for an internal temp of around 195°F for that perfect tenderness.

Once your brisket hits the magic number, take it off the grill and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Slice against the grain to ensure each bite is tender and full of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Combines two flavors you love: coffee and BBQ.
  • Perfect for impressing at your next cookout.
  • Slow-cooked to juicy, tender perfection.
  • Simple enough for beginners, impressive enough for seasoned cooks.

Ingredients

5 lbs beef brisket
1/4 cup coffee grounds, finely ground
2 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp kosher salt
1 tbsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup beef stock

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a small bowl, combine coffee grounds, smoked paprika, brown sugar, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture generously over the entire brisket, pressing it into the meat, then drizzle with olive oil and rub again to ensure even coating.
3. Cover and refrigerate the brisket for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
4. Preheat the grill to medium-low heat (about 275°F).
5. Place the brisket on the grill, fat side up, and cover.
6. Cook for about 6 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature, until the internal temperature reaches 195°F.
7. Baste occasionally with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and beef stock to keep the meat moist.
8. Once cooked, remove the brisket from the grill and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing against the grain.

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