When it comes to the world of barbecue, few dishes command as much respect and admiration as beef brisket. The allure of perfectly smoked and tender brisket has enthusiasts firing up their Pit Barrel Cookers, ready to embark on a flavorful adventure. In this post, we delve into the art of cooking a juicy brisket on the Pit Barrel Cooker. We will be smoking the Pit Barrel Cooker Brisket on the grate and will be highlighting the significance of the cooker's grill grate while offering essential charcoal grilling tips.
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Exploring the World of BBQ Brisket
Smoked beef brisket, often hailed as the "crown jewel" of barbecue, is a cut of meat that promises a symphony of flavors and textures when prepared with care. It's a meaty canvas that pitmasters transform into a culinary masterpiece, and the Pit Barrel Cooker provides the perfect stage for this BBQ performance.
Importance of Pit Barrel Cooker Grate
The Pit Barrel Cooker is renowned for its unique cooking method, which suspends meat over the coals, allowing juices to baste and infuse the meat. When it comes to brisket, the grate plays a crucial role in achieving optimal results. It facilitates even cooking, smoke penetration, and that coveted tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
Juicy Brisket on the Pit Barrel Smoker
The Pit Barrel Cooker is celebrated for its ability to produce a juicy brisket that oozes flavor with every bite. The drum smoker or barrel grill design ensures that the meat remains moist and succulent throughout the cooking process, resulting in a brisket that's nothing short of spectacular.
Charcoal Grilling Tips
While mastering the Pit Barrel Cooker and achieving the pinnacle of perfect beef brisket perfection, knowing the charcoal grilling tips can make all the difference. From controlling temp to managing airflow, these tips will serve as your guide to unlocking the full potential of your Pit Barrel Cooker and creating a mouthwatering brisket on the grate.
We'll take you on a journey from selecting the perfect brisket cut to mastering temp control and achieving the ideal balance of flavors.
So, fire up your Pit Barrel Cooker, gather your brisket, and prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that celebrates the art of barbecue. Your quest for the perfect Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate begins here.
Selecting the Perfect Brisket Cut for Pit Barrel Cooker Brisket on The Grate
When it comes to achieving a mouthwatering Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate, one of the most critical decisions you'll make is selecting the right brisket cut. The cut you choose will directly influence the tenderness and flavor of your barbecue masterpiece.
In this section, we'll explore various brisket cuts, guide you in choosing the ideal size, and dive into the world of BBQ brisket.
Types of Brisket Cuts
Brisket cuts come in two primary varieties: the "packer" brisket and the "point" and "flat" cuts. The packer brisket includes both the point and the flat, offering a larger, more substantial piece of meat. This choice is ideal if you're aiming for a flavorful, marbled, and juicy outcome. Alternatively, you can opt for just the point or flat cuts if you prefer a specific texture or have portion size considerations.
Choosing the right brisket cut ensures that your Pit Barrel Cooker experience begins with the best foundation, setting the stage for a barbecue masterpiece that's sure to impress your guests.
Choosing the Ideal Brisket Size
When selecting the ideal brisket size for your Pit Barrel Cooker, consider the number of people you plan to serve and your cooking preferences. A larger packer brisket is perfect for feeding a crowd, while smaller cuts are suitable for intimate gatherings. Additionally, take into account the size of your Pit Barrel Cooker grate to ensure a proper fit.
Whether you're smoking a whole packer brisket or focusing on the point or flat, the size should align with your cooking goals and the capacity of your Pit Barrel Cooker. It's all about achieving that harmonious balance between size and flavor.
Prepping Your Brisket for the Grill: Pit Barrel Cooker Brisket on The Grate Perfection
As you embark on your journey to create a delectable Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate, the process begins with careful preparation.
In this section, we'll dive into the essential steps of trimming and seasoning every part of the brisket, ensuring it's ready to undergo the flavorful transformation that awaits it on the Pit Barrel Cooker grate.
Let's explore the art of seasoning and flavoring techniques that will elevate your barbecue game.
Trimming and Seasoning Brisket
Properly trimming your brisket is a crucial step in achieving a beautiful end result. Remove any excess fat, especially the thick and hard white fat, to ensure that your seasonings penetrate the meat effectively. You will most likely find the most fat on the point of the brisket which is the thickest part. Trimming allows for more even cooking and enhances the presentation of your Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate.
Once your brisket is trimmed to perfection, it's time to dive into the world of seasoning. Applying a rub or seasoning blend is where you infuse your meat with layers of flavor. The choice of seasonings can vary widely, from traditional BBQ rubs to creative spice blends. Be generous with your seasoning application, ensuring that every inch of the brisket is well-covered.
Preparing the Meat for Smoking
Before placing your brisket on the Pit Barrel Cooker grate, it's essential to let it absorb the flavors of your chosen seasonings. Allow the brisket to sit, covered, in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This resting period allows the meat to marinate, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will shine through during smoking.
Seasoning and Flavoring Techniques
When it comes to seasoning and flavoring techniques, the options are as diverse as the world of barbecue itself. Experiment with different rubs, marinades, and flavor profiles to discover your signature style. Some pitmasters prefer the classic combination of salt, pepper, and garlic, while others may explore more complex spice blends to create a unique flavor profile.
As you prep your brisket for the PBC grate, remember that seasoning is an art, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Tailor your technique to your taste preferences, and let the Pit Barrel Cooker work its magic to transform your well-seasoned brisket into a smoky, tender masterpiece that will leave your guests craving more.
Seasoning and Flavoring Techniques for Pit Barrel Cooker Brisket on The Grate
Achieving the perfect Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate requires not only the right cut and preparation but also mastering the art of seasoning and flavoring.
In this section, we'll explore how to enhance the flavor of your brisket by using seasonings, marinades, and expert rub and seasoning techniques.
Here is a tried and true brisket recipe that is perfect for beginners Pit Barrel Cooker Brisket Recipe
Enhancing Flavor with Seasonings
Seasonings are the heart and soul of a delicious brisket. They infuse the meat with layers of flavor, and the Pit Barrel Cooker grate is the canvas on which this flavor masterpiece will be created. Whether you're a fan of bold and spicy rubs or prefer a more subtle, savory approach, the key is to apply your chosen seasonings generously.
When seasoning your brisket, ensure that you season all sides of the brisket. The grate allows for excellent smoke penetration, ensuring that the flavors are absorbed deep into the meat as it cooks. Don't be shy with your seasonings; they are a vital component of achieving the best brisket.
Marinating Brisket for Maximum Flavor
Marinating your brisket is another technique to maximize flavor. Marinades often include a combination of liquids, herbs, spices, and acids that work together to tenderize and infuse the meat with additional taste. Before placing your brisket on the Pit Barrel Cooker grate, allow it to marinate for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
The beauty of marinating lies in the depth of flavor it adds. As the brisket soaks up the marinade, it becomes a flavorful delight, ready to undergo the smoking process. Choose a marinade that complements your rub and seasoning choices, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
Rub and Seasoning Techniques
When it comes to rub and seasoning techniques, there's room for creativity and experimentation. Some pitmasters prefer to keep it simple with a classic kosher salt, pepper, and garlic rub, allowing the meat's natural flavors to shine through. Others might opt for a more complex blend of spices, herbs, and sugars to create a unique flavor profile.
A rub suggestion would be the Pit Barrel Cooker Beef and Game Pit Rub. There are also a plethora of BBQ rubs at your local grocery store.
Whether you're using a dry rub or a wet marinade, the key is to ensure that your prime brisket is well-coated and allowed to rest before it meets the Pit Barrel® Cooker grate.
With the right seasoning and flavoring techniques, you're well on your way to creating a Pit Barrel Cooker brisket that's bursting with flavor and sure to impress even the most discerning barbecue aficionados.
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Mastering Temperature Control for Pit Barrel Cooker Brisket on The Grate
Achieving the pinnacle of this smoked brisket recipe hinges on the precise control of cooking temperatures.
In this section, we'll delve into the vital role temperature plays in smoking, share expert tips for maintaining accuracy, and explore the nuances of grill temperature control.
Importance of Temperature in Smoking
Temperature is the maestro that conducts the symphony of flavors during the smoking process. It governs the breakdown of collagen in the meat, transforming it from tough to tender. When smoking brisket on the Pit Barrel Cooker grate, the controlled application of heat ensures that the meat cooks evenly and develops that sought-after smoky flavor.
The ideal smoking temperature for brisket typically ranges between 250°F and 275°F, a sweet spot that encourages the meat to absorb the essence of the wood smoke while gradually reaching the desired level of doneness.
Tips for Precise Temperature Control
Achieving precise temperature control on your Pit Barrel Cooker is both an art and a science. Start by using a quality meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the brisket. Additionally, consider these tips:
- Use a reliable wireless thermometer to keep track of both the meat and ambient temperatures.
- Adjust the airflow on your Pit Barrel Cooker to regulate heat and maintain consistency.
- Add charcoal as needed to sustain the desired cooking temperature.
- Familiarize yourself with your Pit Barrel Cooker's unique characteristics to anticipate how it responds to adjustments.
- You control the ventilation. Open the vent wider for hotter temps and secure the lid and close the vent for cooler temps.
Grill Temperature Control
Grill temperature control is a fundamental aspect of Pit Barrel Cooker brisket mastery. It ensures that your brisket cooks evenly and achieves that coveted smoke ring and bark. Keep a watchful eye on the internal temperature.
Remember that the Pit Barrel Cooker's design inherently promotes consistent temperature control, thanks to its suspended cooking method and well-ventilated design. It's a versatile and reliable tool for maintaining the ideal cooking temperature throughout the smoking process.
With a keen understanding of the importance of temperature in smoking, coupled with expert tips for precise control, you're well on your way to mastering the art of creating a mouthwatering Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate that will leave your guests in awe of your barbecue prowess.
Placing Your Brisket on the Pit Barrel Cooker Grate: The Art of Smoking Meat Techniques
As you prepare to transform your carefully seasoned and marinated brisket into a delectable masterpiece of Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate, it's essential to understand the significance of proper placement and smoking meat techniques.
In this section, we'll explore the nuances of positioning your whole brisket for even cooking and delve into the techniques that make the Pit Barrel Cooker a standout tool in the world of barbecue.
Positioning Brisket for Even Cooking
Achieving an evenly cooked brisket is an essential goal for any pitmaster, and it begins with how you position the meat on the Pit Barrel Cooker grate. The cooker's unique design, with the meat hanging vertically over the coals, promotes excellent air circulation and even cooking.
However, there are still some key considerations:
- Hang your brisket with the thicker side down for more even heat distribution.
- Ensure that there is adequate space between the brisket and the cooker's sides to allow for proper airflow.
- Monitor the placement of the brisket to avoid contact with the walls of the cooker, ensuring that it cooks uniformly.
By paying attention to these details, you'll maximize the potential of the Pit Barrel Cooker grate to produce a perfectly cooked brisket.
Smoking Meat Techniques
The Pit Barrel Cooker is renowned for its ability to simplify smoking meat techniques while delivering exceptional results. The method of suspending the meat over the coals allows for a consistent smoky flavor infusion and minimal fuss.
One of the key techniques with the Pit Barrel Cooker is its "set it and forget it" approach. Once you've positioned your brisket on the grate and set the desired temperature, you can trust the cooker to work its magic. The cooker's design naturally retains moisture, ensuring a juicy, flavorful brisket, while the smoke from the wood chunks imparts that unmistakable smokiness.
Throughout the smoking process, resist the temptation to open the cooker frequently. The Pit Barrel Cooker's reliable temperature control minimizes the need for constant monitoring, allowing you to step back and let the cooker do its job.
With your briskets expertly positioned on the Pit Barrel Cooker grate and armed with the simplicity of its smoking meat techniques, you're well on your way to creating a mouthwatering masterpiece that will captivate your taste buds and those of anyone fortunate enough to share in your culinary creation.
The Art of Smoking and Cooking Time: Pit Barrel Cooker Brisket on The Grate Mastery
Smoking a succulent and flavorful Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate is an art that requires a deep understanding of smoking time, methods, and the philosophy of cooking low and slow.
In this section, we will explore the nuances of mastering smoking time, monitor your brisket's journey as it cooks, and embrace the time-honored tradition of cooking low and slow.
Understanding Smoking Time and Methods
Smoking time is a pivotal element in achieving a tender and smoky brisket on the PBC. The duration of the smoking process allows the meat to absorb the rich flavors of the wood smoke while undergoing the gradual transformation from toughness to tenderness. The Pit Barrel Cooker, with its unique hanging method, provides an optimal environment for smoking by suspending the brisket over the coals, allowing for even exposure to smoke and heat.
The choice of wood chunks or chips used for smoking also plays a crucial role in influencing the brisket's flavor profile. Options like hickory, mesquite, or fruitwoods each impart distinct aromas and tastes to your meat.
Monitoring Brisket as It Cooks
Using a quality meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the brisket itself is crucial. The brisket's temperature will guide you on when it's approaching perfection, as well as when it's time to remove the brisket from the Pit Barrel Cooker grate.
Cooking Low and Slow
Cooking low and slow is a time-honored tradition in the world of barbecue. The Pit Barrel Cooker embraces this philosophy, creating an environment where your brisket can undergo the slow transformation necessary for achieving tenderness and flavor depth. The controlled cooking temperatures and steady airflow promote the perfect conditions for the low-and-slow method to work its magic.
As your Pit Barrel Cooker brisket smokes and cooks low and slow, you'll witness the mesmerizing transition of tough meat into a tender, juicy masterpiece. Patience is key in this process, as the brisket's journey unfolds, and its rich smoky aroma fills the air.
By understanding the nuances of smoking time, closely monitoring your brisket, and embracing the time-honored tradition of cooking low and slow, you're on the path to creating a Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate that is nothing short of barbecue perfection.
Achieving Brisket Perfection: Roasting and Resting for Pit Barrel Cooker Brisket on The Grate
As your journey to create a mouthwatering Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate nears its culmination, the final steps of roasting and resting hold the key to brisket perfection.
In this section, we'll explore the art of the final roast, the significance of resting your brisket for ultimate tenderness, and the importance of achieving a tender and juicy outcome.
The Final Roast for Char and Flavor
Once your brisket has undergone the meticulous smoking process on the Pit Barrel Cooker grate, it's time for the final roast. This step is where you can impart a touch of char and additional flavor to your brisket. By briefly exposing it to direct heat, you create a beautiful crust known as the "bark."
Position the brisket directly over the coals for this final roast, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning. This brief encounter with the intense heat adds a layer of complexity to the brisket's flavor profile, creating a harmonious balance of smokiness and char.
Resting Brisket for Ultimate Tenderness
Resting your brisket is a crucial phase that should not be rushed. After it has completed its time on the Pit Barrel Cooker grate, remove the brisket from the cooker and place it on a clean cutting board. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil, allowing the meat to rest for a significant period, typically around one hour.
The resting phase serves several essential purposes. It allows the meat's juices to redistribute evenly throughout the brisket, ensuring every bite is tender and juicy. Additionally, it enables the meat to relax, making it easier to slice without losing its moisture.
During this time, resist the temptation to slice into the brisket prematurely. Instead, savor the anticipation of what awaits—a Pit Barrel Cooker brisket that has achieved the pinnacle of tenderness and flavor.
Tender and Juicy
The ultimate goal of your Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate journey is to create a result that is undeniably tender and juicy. The careful balance of cooking time, temperature control, and resting periods all contribute to this desired outcome.
By embracing the final roast, allowing your brisket to rest, and understanding the importance of achieving a tender and juicy end product, you're poised to present a barbecue masterpiece that will be the centerpiece of any gathering, leaving your guests in awe of your Pit Barrel Cooker prowess.
Slicing and Serving Your Pit Barrel Cooker Brisket: A Masterful Presentation of Brisket on The Grate
As you approach the grand finale of your culinary journey to create a sumptuous Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate, it's time to master the art of slicing and serving.
In this section, we'll explore proper techniques for slicing brisket, offer presentation and serving tips, and delve into the nuances of slicing smoked brisket to perfection.
Proper Techniques for Slicing Brisket
Slicing brisket is an art in itself, one that requires finesse to bring out the best qualities of your Pit Barrel Cooker masterpiece. Here are some proper techniques to ensure your brisket is sliced to perfection:
- Slice Against the Grain: Identify the direction of the meat fibers and slice perpendicular to them. This technique results in more tender and easier-to-chew slices.
- Maintain Consistency: Aim for uniform slice thickness throughout the brisket. This ensures that every bite delivers a consistent texture and flavor.
- Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp knife is your best friend when slicing brisket. A dull blade can tear the meat, affecting both presentation and taste.
- Practice Patience: Take your time when slicing. Rushing can lead to uneven cuts and a less visually appealing presentation.
- Pay attention: The direction of the grain goes one way on the point and a different way on the flat. It is easier to cut against the grain if you separate the point from the flat.
Presentation and Serving Tips
Elevate the presentation of your Pit Barrel Cooker brisket by paying attention to the following tips:
- Serve on a Large Platter or Sheet Pan: Present your sliced brisket on a clean platter or serving dish, free from any drippings or debris.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A touch of fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, adds a pop of color and freshness to your platter.
- Accompaniments: Consider serving your brisket with traditional barbecue sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a complete meal.
Slicing Smoked Brisket
When slicing smoked brisket, remember the smoky flavor that has infused the meat throughout the cooking process. Each slice should showcase the beautiful smoke ring and bark that have developed on the surface.
With your Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate now transformed into perfectly sliced portions, you're ready to serve up a barbecue masterpiece that will leave your guests in awe. The combination of proper slicing techniques, presentation finesse, and respect for the smoky essence of the meat ensures that every bite of your smoked brisket is a delightful culinary experience.
Conclusion: Elevating Your Barbecue Journey with Pit Barrel Cooker Brisket on The Grate
In the grand finale of your barbecue journey, you've ventured into the world of Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate and unlocked the secrets to creating a mouthwatering masterpiece. As we wrap up this culinary adventure, let's reflect on the key takeaways and the exceptional experience that comes with cooking brisket on the Pit Barrel Cooker grate.
achieving brisket perfection
Throughout this journey, we've explored the importance of selecting the perfect brisket cut, mastering temperature control, and embracing the art of smoking and cooking time. We've delved into the nuances of achieving brisket perfection through roasting and resting and learned the proper techniques for slicing and serving your smoked brisket. Each step in this process has been an exploration of technique, flavor, and passion for the art of barbecue.
The Pit Barrel Cooker, with its unique design and thoughtful engineering, has been your trusty companion on this culinary adventure. Its ability to maintain consistent temperatures, promote even cooking, and infuse your brisket with a smoky essence has allowed you to achieve barbecue excellence.
As you serve up your Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate to friends and family, you'll witness the joy and satisfaction that come from mastering this barbecue art form. The rich aromas, the beautiful bark, and the tender, juicy slices will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your guests, as well as on your own culinary repertoire.
The Journey Doesn't End Here
But the Pit Barrel Cooker journey doesn't end here. It's a portal to endless barbecue possibilities, and as you continue to explore its capabilities, you'll discover new recipes, techniques, and flavor profiles that will elevate your barbecue game to new heights.
So, as you savor the final bites of your Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on the grate, remember that this is just the beginning of a delicious adventure. Your Pit Barrel Cooker is your ticket to a world of barbecue creativity, and the culinary horizons are boundless. Enjoy every moment of your barbecue journey and the unforgettable flavors that await with each new recipe you tackle.
Make sure to comeback to SmokyBeginnings.com as we are continuously adding new recipes and tips to the site.
Pit Barrel Cooker brisket on grate FAQs
A: The cooking time for a brisket on a Pit Barrel Cooker can vary based on the size of the brisket and the cooking temperature. In general, it can take anywhere from 6 hours to 8 or more at a temperature range of 250°F to 275°F to achieve the desired tenderness.
A: Yes, you can smoke brisket on the rack or grate of the Pit Barrel Cooker. However, typically the meat is placed on hooks and suspends over the coals, allowing for even exposure to smoke and heat, resulting in a flavorful and tender brisket.
To cook a brisket on a barrel pit like the Pit Barrel Cooker, follow these steps:
1. Prepare the brisket by trimming and seasoning it.
2. Place the brisket on the cooker's grate.
3. Maintain a consistent temperature of 250°F to 275°F.
4. Monitor the internal temperature of the brisket until it reaches your desired doneness, typically around 200°F.
5. Rest the brisket before slicing and serving.
A: It's typically recommended to smoke brisket on a rack or grate rather than in a pan. Smoking on a rack allows the smoke to envelop the meat evenly and allows for better airflow, resulting in a more flavorful and well-smoked brisket.
A: It is more common to cook brisket on a rack or grate rather than in a pan. Cooking on a rack promotes even heat distribution and allows the brisket to develop a desirable crust and smoky flavor.
A: Many pitmasters prefer to cook brisket with the fat side up. This allows the fat to render down into the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process.
A: Brisket is often cooked with the fat side up to allow the melting fat to baste the meat, enhancing its flavor and moisture. However, some pitmasters choose to cook it fat side down to protect the meat from direct heat.
A: The best length of time to cook brisket depends on several factors, including the size of the brisket, cooking temperature, and desired level of tenderness. In general, a good rule of thumb is to allow 6 to 8 hours or more for brisket to cook low and slow until it reaches the desired internal temperature, typically around 200°F. The key is to cook it until it's tender and can be easily pierced with a probe or fork.
The Perfect Pit Barrel Cooker Brisket: A Mouthwatering Delight
Ingredients
- 1 Whole beef brisket (approximately 10-12 pounds)
- 4 tbsp kosher salt
- 4 tbsp coarse ground black pepper
- 2 tbsp Paprika
- 2 tbsp Garlic powder
- 2 tbsp Onion powder
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper (adjust for preferred heat)
- 1 cup beef broth or water
- Wood chunks or chips (hickory or oak work well for brisket)
Instructions
Prepare the Brisket
- Start by trimming the excess fat from the brisket, leaving about 1/4 inch of fat on the surface. Trimming helps the seasoning penetrate the meat and ensures even cooking.
- In a bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to create your brisket rub.
- Generously season the brisket with the rub, ensuring all sides are well coated. Use your hands to press the rub into the meat for better adherence. Let the seasoned brisket sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while you prepare the Pit Barrel Cooker.
Prepare the Pit Barrel Cooker
- Fill the charcoal chimney starter with charcoal briquettes and light them until they're ashed over. Once ready, carefully pour them into the Pit Barrel Cooker charcoal basket.
- Add a few chunks of wood (hickory or oak) to the hot coals for that smoky flavor infusion.
- Assemble your Pit Barrel Cooker according to the manufacturer's instructions, ensuring proper vent settings for optimal airflow.
- Place the brisket on the grill grate inside the Pit Barrel Cooker.
Smoke and Cook
- Close the lid and let the Pit Barrel Cooker work its magic. The beauty of this cooker is its "set it and forget it" nature. You won't need to constantly monitor the temperature; the Pit Barrel Cooker maintains consistent heat for you.
- Smoke the brisket at around 250-275°F for about 1.5 hours per pound of meat, or until the internal temperature reaches 195-205°F. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the progress.
- Once the brisket reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the Pit Barrel Cooker, and wrap it in heavy-duty foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Slicing and Serving
- Unwrap the brisket, and with a sharp knife, slice it against the grain into thin, succulent pieces.
- Serve your Pit Barrel Cooker brisket with your favorite BBQ sauce, coleslaw, pickles, and buns for the ultimate BBQ sandwich, or enjoy it on its own.