The time you invest in this barbecued beef brisket will pay big dividends. Serve this smoked beef brisket with your favorite barbecue sauce.

Texas Smoked Barbecue Brisket

1 (10 to 12 pounds) beef brisket
1/4 cup kosher salt
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup ground cumin
1/4 cup chili powder
1/4 cup freshly cracked black pepper
2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
1/2 cup paprika

1. In a large bowl, combine the salt, sugar, brown sugar, cumin, chili powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper and paprika and mix well. Rub brisket thoroughly with this mixture and set aside.
2. Build a fire in one half of a large grill. For best results, use an aromatic wood such as mesquite.
3. When fire is ready, place brisket on grill, making sure that it is not above any part of the fire. Close grill cover and open vent about 1/2-inch.
4. Feeding the fire periodically, cook for 8 to 10 hours or until the internal temperature is 165º to 170ºF (approximately 75ºC) and the meat is very tender. The exterior of the meat should be very black.
5. Remove from the fire, trim off excess fat and carve against the grain into very thin slices.

Makes 8 servings.

Cook's Tip: Hickory wood may also be used.

Recipe and photograph provided courtesy of the Texas Beef Council and Beef It's Whats For Dinner.