Coffee brisket rub is a perfect seasoning for anyone who wants to add a rich, deep flavor to their smoked brisket. Whether you’re an experienced pitmaster or a beginner just starting out, this rub is sure to impress.
The combination of ground coffee, smoked paprika, and ancho chili powder creates a flavorful crust on the outside of the brisket that perfectly complements the juicy, tender meat inside.
This coffee brisket rub recipe is perfect for anyone who wants to take their brisket to the next level. The coffee in the rub adds a unique smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of the other spices. The rub is easy to make and can be applied to your brisket in minutes.
Whether you’re smoking for a crowd or just for your family, this coffee brisket rub is sure to be a hit. So fire up your smoker, grab a brisket, and get ready to make some mouthwatering barbecue.
How To Prepare Brisket For Smoking
Before seasoning your brisket, it’s important to trim it properly. While some may think that removing all of the fat is necessary, this can actually cause the meat to become tough and dry during the smoking process.
Instead, it’s recommended to trim any thick pieces of fat while leaving a thin layer of fat from the fat cap. Trimming excess fat will help to keep the meat moist and flavorful while also providing a barrier to prevent it from drying out.
Once your brisket has been trimmed, it’s time to marinate it with your rub of choice. There are many options available for seasoning your brisket, including pre-made rubs and spice blends, but we recommend making your own homemade rub using the coffee brisket rub seasoning ingredients in this recipe.
When applying your dry rub, be sure to generously coat the surface of the brisket with the seasoning, massaging it into all the nooks and crannies of the meat. This will help to ensure that every inch of the brisket is evenly seasoned.
Finally, after applying the seasoning, allow the brisket to rest for at least an hour before placing it in the smoker. This will allow the spices to penetrate the meat and develop a delicious flavor profile.
Why Coffee Rubbed Brisket?
Coffee or espresso rubs have gained popularity when it comes to seasoning brisket because coffee is an excellent flavor enhancer that brings out the meat’s natural flavors. The coffee grounds also give the brisket a rich, dark color, which adds to the overall appearance of the meat.
Espresso and Coffee brisket rubs are typically made by combining finely ground coffee or espresso with spices like chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. The result is a rub that is bold, savory, and slightly sweet, with a subtle hint of coffee flavor.
Many barbecue enthusiasts also believe that coffee and espresso rubs help to tenderize the meat. The acidity in the coffee is thought to break down the proteins in the meat, making it more tender and juicy.
Overall, coffee and espresso rubs offer a unique and delicious way to season brisket, and they are becoming increasingly popular among BBQ enthusiasts who want to add a new twist to their traditional brisket recipes.
How To Make This Brisket Dry Rub Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a small bowl, combine all the ingredients listed in the recipe, including 2 tbsp of ground coffee, 2 tbsp of kosher salt, 2 tbsp of dark brown sugar, 2 tbsp of smoked paprika, 2 tbsp chile powder, 2 tsp of garlic powder, 2 tsp of onion powder, 2 tsp of ground cumin, and 2 tsp of freshly ground black pepper.
Mix the ingredients well to create your coffee brisket rub. Make sure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed so that every bite of brisket is packed with flavor.
Step 2: Apply Rub
Lay brisket flat on a large cutting board and apply the coffee brisket rub generously to the surface of your brisket, making sure to massage it into all the nooks and crannies of the meat. Make sure to cover the entire surface of the brisket evenly. If you’re working with a larger brisket, you may need to make a double batch of the rub to ensure that you have enough to cover the entire surface.
Step 3: Let the Brisket to Sit
Allow the brisket to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking. This will allow the flavors to penetrate the meat and create a more flavorful end result. During this time, you can prepare your smoker or grill for smoking the brisket.
Step 4: Store Any Unused Brisket Rub
If you have any unused brisket rub, be sure to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. You can use the leftover rub for future brisket smoking sessions or try it on other meats like pork chops or chicken. Just be sure to store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its flavor and freshness.
By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious brisket rub that will elevate the flavor of your smoked brisket and impress all of your friends.
The Best Brisket Recipes
Brisket is a staple in the world of BBQ, and for good reason. When cooked low and slow, this tough cut of meat transforms into a juicy, tender and flavorful masterpiece that contain lot of nutrition calories. While seasoning the brisket is important, cooking it to perfection is equally as crucial. Here are some of our most popular beef brisket recipes that create the most tender brisket you’ll ever try! You can also check out the wrapping brisket guide that will help you to get perfect cooking process.
More Homemade Brisket Rub Recipes
If you’re not ready to try the unique coffee-rubbed smoked brisket and want to try your hand at another brisket seasoning recipe, give one of these a try!
We’ve got all kinds of recipes for different spice blends and brisket rubs. Whether you want to make a Texas-Style brisket, a sweeter brisket with a brown sugar beef brisket rub, or a classic seasoning option, we’ve got you covered!
Coffee Brisket Rub
Equipment
- Medium Bowl
- Measuring Spoons
- Funnel (optional – if storing)
- Airtight Container (optional – if storing)
- Anti-Moisture Silica Packet (optional – if storing)
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp ground coffee
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp dark brown sugar
- 2 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp ancho chile powder
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine ground coffee, kosher salt, dark brown sugar, smoked paprika, chile powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix the ingredients well to create your coffee brisket rub.
- Apply the rub generously to the surface of your brisket, making sure to massage it into all the nooks and crannies of the meat.
- Allow the brisket to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking.
- Store any unused smoked brisket rub in an airtight container.
Brisket Rub Recipe FAQs
How much coffee should I use in the coffee brisket rub?
For this recipe, you’ll need 2 tablespoons of medium-grind ground coffee. You can use either freshly ground coffee beans or instant coffee.
Can I use regular salt instead of kosher salt in the coffee brisket rub?
While regular salt can be used in the coffee brisket rub, kosher salt is recommended because it has larger grains and will provide better flavor and texture to the rub.
How do I apply the coffee brisket rub to the brisket?
Apply the coffee brisket rub generously to the surface of the brisket, making sure to massage it into all the nooks and crannies of the meat. This will help the flavors penetrate the meat.
How long should I let the brisket sit with the coffee brisket rubbed on it?
Allow the brisket to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before smoking. This will allow the flavors to fully infuse the meat.
What kind of smoker should I use for the coffee brisket recipe?
You can use any type of smoker, but a pellet smoker is recommended because it provides consistent internal temperature and smoke.
What is the best wood to use for smoking a coffee brisket?
Hickory or oak wood is recommended for smoking a coffee brisket because it provides a rich and smoky flavor that pairs well with the coffee rub.
How should I store any unused coffee brisket rub?
Store any unused coffee brisket rub in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to six months.
Should I wrap my brisket while cooking?
Wrapping the brisket in foil or peach butcher paper can help to retain moisture and speed up cooking time. However, wrapped brisket can also prevent the formation of a crispy bark on the outside of the brisket.
What should I make with leftover brisket?
When you cook brisket there’s a lot of meat involved and you’ll likely have some leftovers! You can reheat brisket and eat it on its own, or serve it in one of our delicious leftover brisket recipes. Try a brisket grilled cheese, brisket mac and cheese, or brisket burrito, you won’t be disappointed!