How Long Should You Smoke A Brisket Per Pound?

Smoke brisket for at least 30 minutes per pound

The weight of the brisket can provide a reliable estimate for its cooking time, but it's essential to verify your progress with a meat thermometer. A properly smoked brisket should reach an internal temperature of at least 195 degrees Fahrenheit. At this point, it should be incredibly tender, allowing the thermometer to slide in effortlessly. Once cooking is complete, let the brisket rest for a minimum of one hour to let the juices redistribute. It may feel like a long wait, but after spending the day trimming, seasoning, and smoking your meat, the results will be rewarding!

During the smoking process, you might observe that the meat's temperature plateaus. This is a common phenomenon known as "the stall," a term used by professional pitmasters. It can occur regardless of the heat source, so don’t hesitate to experiment with various types of wood. This temporary halt in temperature rise will eventually pass, but if you're eager to speed things up, you can wrap the brisket in butcher paper or aluminum foil once it reaches 165 degrees. This technique helps maintain a consistent temperature increase and can shorten the overall cooking time.