The BEST Brisket Rub

A perfectly seasoned brisket starts with the right rub. This recipe for the BEST Brisket Rub strikes a balance between smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors to elevate your barbecue game. Whether you’re smoking, grilling, or roasting, this homemade rub will bring out the rich, juicy flavors of your brisket while forming a delicious crust.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This brisket rub recipe is incredibly easy to make and uses simple pantry staples. It’s versatile enough for other meats like ribs, pork shoulder, or even chicken. Plus, making your own rub allows you to adjust the flavors to suit your taste—whether you prefer a touch of heat, extra sweetness, or a bold smoky kick.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Paprika
• Brown sugar
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Smoked paprika
• Chili powder
• Ground cumin
• Cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Directions

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix thoroughly until evenly blended.
2. Pat your brisket dry with paper towels to help the rub stick better.
3. Generously coat the brisket with the rub, pressing it into the meat for full flavor coverage.
4. Wrap the brisket in plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
5. Cook the brisket using your preferred method—smoking, grilling, or roasting—until it reaches the desired internal temperature.

Servings and Timing

This brisket rub recipe yields enough to season one large brisket (around 10-12 pounds).
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Resting time (after applying the rub): 4 hours to overnight

Variations

• Sweeter Rub: Add more brown sugar for a caramelized crust.
• Spicy Rub: Increase the cayenne pepper or add crushed red pepper flakes.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in dried thyme, rosemary, or oregano for a herbal twist.
• Low-Sodium: Reduce the salt content and increase other spices like garlic or onion powder for flavor without the sodium.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover rub in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months. Keep it away from moisture and direct sunlight to maintain its potency.

If you’ve pre-rubbed brisket leftovers, store cooked meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, wrap the brisket in foil and warm it in a low oven (around 300°F) until heated through, adding a bit of broth or water to keep it moist.

FAQs

How long should I let the rub sit on the brisket?

For best results, let the rub sit on the brisket for at least 4 hours, but overnight is ideal for maximum flavor absorption.

Can I use this rub for other meats?

Yes, this rub works great on ribs, pork shoulder, chicken, and even vegetables for added flavor.

Should I apply mustard before the rub?

Applying mustard can help the rub adhere better, but it’s not necessary as it doesn’t affect the flavor.

Do I need to remove the fat cap before applying the rub?

No, leaving the fat cap on helps keep the brisket moist during cooking, and the rub will still penetrate the meat.

Can I use table salt instead of kosher salt?

Yes, but use less since table salt is finer and saltier than kosher salt.

How spicy is this rub?

The heat level is mild, but you can increase cayenne pepper if you prefer a spicier rub.

What’s the difference between smoked paprika and regular paprika?

Smoked paprika adds a smoky, wood-fired flavor, while regular paprika is milder and sweeter.

Can I make this rub sugar-free?

Yes, you can omit the brown sugar or use a sugar substitute for a low-carb option.

How should I store leftover rub?

Keep the rub in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.

Should I oil the brisket before applying the rub?

It’s optional—adding oil can help the rub stick better, but a dry brisket will absorb the rub just as effectively.

Conclusion

This BEST Brisket Rub recipe is a must-have for barbecue enthusiasts looking to elevate their brisket game. With a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors, it guarantees a mouthwatering crust and tender, juicy meat every time. Whip up a batch today and take your BBQ to the next level!

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