If you’re looking to add a burst of flavor to your brisket, look no further than this incredible brisket marinade recipe. A marinade can be a game-changer when it comes to cooking brisket, as it can help to tenderize the meat and infuse it with bold, delicious flavors.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add some extra zing to their smoked brisket, whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a beginner. It’s also a great choice for those looking to impress guests at a backyard BBQ or special occasion.
The level of difficulty for this recipe is moderate, but don’t let that scare you off. All you need is a large bowl, a whisk or fork, and a resealable plastic bag to get started. Once you’ve combined the ingredients in the bowl and poured them over the brisket in the bag, it’s simply a matter of letting the meat marinate for a few hours or overnight.
Get ready for an explosion of flavors when you try this amazing brisket marinade recipe. It’s sure to become a staple in your cooking arsenal, and your taste buds will thank you for it. So, fire up the grill or preheat your oven, and let’s get cooking!
What Makes a Good Brisket Marinade?
Marinades are a great way to add flavor and tenderness to meat, and beef is no exception. Different beef marinades have various ingredients that can change the taste and texture of the meat. In general, the common components in a beef marinade include:
- Acidic liquids: Vinegar, lemon juice, or wine is often used in beef marinades. These liquids help to break down the tough connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and juicy.
- Oil: Olive oil or vegetable oil is another common ingredient in beef marinades. The oil helps to keep the meat moist and prevents it from sticking to the grill or pan.
- Aromatics: Garlic, onion, ginger, and herbs are examples of aromatics that add flavor to the meat and complement the other ingredients in the marinade.
- Salt: The inclusion of salt in a marinade (including onions salt and garlic salt) enhances the flavor of the meat.
- Sweeteners: Honey, sugar, or molasses are often used in beef marinades to balance out the acidity of the marinade and add a sweet note to the meat.
- Spices: Black pepper, cumin, or paprika are examples of spices that add depth and complexity to the flavor of the meat.
- Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce: These sauces add a savory, umami flavor to the meat.
The exact proportions of these ingredients will vary depending on the recipe and personal preference. While marinades can enhance the flavor and texture of meat, it’s important to note that they won’t necessarily make tough meat tender if it’s overcooked.
Our brisket marinade recipe incorporates these common ingredients, such as the acidic red wine, the oil in the form of olive oil, and the aromatic onion and garlic powder.
The use of horseradish adds a unique twist, while the lemon juice and cayenne pepper add depth and complexity to the flavor. All these elements combined result in a delicious and well-rounded flavor that is sure to impress.
How To Make A Brisket Marinade
Prepare and Gather all the Ingredients
Make sure to measure out all of your ingredients ahead of time, so you have everything you need when it’s time to mix them together.
Combine and Stir the Ingredients
Marinate the Brisket
It’s important to turn the brisket occasionally while it’s marinating. This will ensure that all sides of the brisket are evenly marinated.
Cook the Brisket
Place the brisket on the grill or smoker, fat side up, and close the lid. Cook the brisket until it reaches an internal temperature of 195-205°F. This can take anywhere from 8-16 hours, depending on the size of the brisket.
Boil Leftover Marinade
Serve & Enjoy!
Tips For Making a Great Brisket Marinade
Here are a few beginner-friendly tips to help you get the most out of this brisket marinade recipe.
- Don’t skimp on the marinating time: Marinating overnight is essential to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat fully. If you can, try to marinate for 24-48 hours for even more flavor.
- Let the brisket come to room temperature before cooking: Taking the brisket out of the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for an hour or two before cooking can help it cook more evenly.
- Choose the right wood pellets: For the best results, choose a type of wood pellet that complements the flavors in your marinade. Mesquite or hickory pellets can add a smoky flavor, while fruitwood pellets like apple or cherry can add a subtle sweetness.
Brisket Recipes
Now that you’ve got the marinade down, you need a great brisket recipe! Check out these recipes for some of the best brisket-cooking tips.
- Smoked Brisket Recipe
- Brisket Mac And Cheese Recipe
- Brisket Hash Recipe
- Brisket Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Brisket Fries Recipe

Brisket Marinade
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups Red Wine
- 1/2 cup Olive Oil
- 1 1/2 tbsp Mustard
- 1 1/2 tbsp Lemon Juice
- 1 tbsp Red Wine Vinegar
- 1 tbsp Prepared Horseradish
- 1 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1 tsp Cayenne Pepper
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
Instructions
- Prepare and gather all the ingredients.
- Combine and stir the red wine, mustard, olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, horseradish, salt and pepper (cayenne), onion, and garlic powder in a medium bowl.
- Start pouring the marinade over the brisket and fridge overnight to marinate. You must turn it occasionally while marinating.
- After marinating, remove the brisket from the marinade. Boil the marinade in a saucepan for 5 minutes and use it as a mop or brush over the brisket in the cooking process.