Texas Brisket

Prep: 720 min Cook: 540 min Cuisine: American

A smoky, tangy brisket cooked slowly with a flavorful barbecue sauce made from ketchup, Coke, Worcestershire, mustard, and coffee, perfect for gatherings and hearty meals.

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Ingredients

  • 1 small bottle ketchup (hot and spicy)
  • 10 oz. regular Coke
  • 4 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 Tbsp. hot and spicy mustard
  • 2 Tbsp. liquid smoke
  • 3 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 c. strong coffee

Instructions

  1. Mix ketchup, Coke, Worcestershire sauce, hot and spicy mustard, and liquid smoke in a bowl, then refrigerate overnight.
  2. Pour 1 cup of strong coffee over the large brisket.
  3. Cover the brisket with foil and cook at 250°F overnight or for at least 8 to 9 hours.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider marinating the brisket in the spice mixture for a full 24 hours instead of just overnight. If you want to cut down on sweetness, you can reduce the brown sugar or substitute it with a sugar alternative. Using a high-quality coffee will enhance the overall taste of the dish, so choose a brew you enjoy. Additionally, adjust the level of liquid smoke to match your taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

Texas Brisket is best served sliced thinly with a drizzle of the marinade over the top. Pair it with classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a hearty meal. Complement the flavors with Homemade Hamburger Pickles for a tangy crunch. This dish also goes well with cornbread or potato salad, making it perfect for gatherings or BBQs.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze portions wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to three months. To reheat, gently warm the brisket in the oven at 250°F until heated through, adding a splash of coffee or broth to maintain moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Texas Brisket contains roughly 108 calories, with 1g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.

108 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 0.8g 2% DV
Total Fat 2.9g 4% DV
Carbs 20.7g 8% DV
Fiber 0.3g 1% DV
Sugar 18.4g 37% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 306.4mg 13% DV
Potassium 199.7mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 8.9mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 80mcg 9% DV
Vitamin C 5.2mg 6% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 56.6mg 4% DV
Iron 1mg 6% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, while brisket is traditional, you can substitute it with pork shoulder or ribs. Just be aware that cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly to ensure the meat is tender and flavorful.

What can I do if I don't have liquid smoke?

If you don't have liquid smoke, you can achieve a smoky flavor by adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder to the marinade. Alternatively, grilling the brisket over wood chips can also impart a nice smokiness.

How do I know when the brisket is done cooking?

The brisket is done when it reaches an internal temperature of around 195°F to 205°F. This range allows the collagen in the meat to break down, resulting in a tender, juicy final product. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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