Description
This North Carolina-style brisket recipe combines the rich, smoky flavors of traditional Southern barbecue with a tangy, vinegar-based sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this brisket is tender, flavorful, and steeped in NC’s barbecue heritage.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 whole packer brisket (10–12 lbs.)
- Dry Rub:
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp cayenne pepper
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Carolina Barbecue Sauce:
- 1 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp red pepper flakes
- 2 tbsp ketchup (optional)
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Brisket: Trim excess fat, leaving a 1/4-inch fat cap. Remove silver skin.
- Season: Generously rub the spice mix all over the brisket. Wrap and refrigerate overnight.
- Cook: Smoke at 225°F for 1 hour per pound or oven-braise at 275°F with a liquid base (vinegar/broth).
- Rest: Allow brisket to rest for 30 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Serve: Pair with traditional NC sides like coleslaw and hush puppies.
Notes
For a perfect smoky flavor, use hickory or oak wood for smoking. If oven-braising, add a splash of liquid smoke to mimic the effect.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Smoking/Oven-Braising
- Cuisine: Southern, North Carolina BBQ
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Per Serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: North Carolina brisket, Carolina BBQ, smoked brisket, oven-braised brisket, Southern barbecue