FBD

Beef Pastrami

AmericanBeefAdvanced360 minBy Northstar

Ingredients

Servings
4
  • 4 0.5 lb beef brisket
  • 2 tbsp black peppercorns
  • 1 tbsp dried thyme, plus 2 teaspoons
  • 6 each bay leaves, crumbled
  • 2 tsp whole cloves
  • 0.3 cup minced garlic
  • 2 tsp whole juniper berries
  • 0.3 cup crushed juniper berries
  • 6 cup water
  • 0.8 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 0.8 cup kosher salt
  • 0.7 cup coarsely ground black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1

    Combine the peppercorns, thyme, bay leaves, cloves, garlic, and whole juniper berries in a bowl.

  2. 2

    In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the water, brown sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil and stir to dissolve. Remove from heat, add the dry spice mixture, and steep for 1 hour.

  3. 3

    Place the brisket in a glass or plastic container. Pour the seasoned brine over the brisket to cover completely. Cover and refrigerate for 3 weeks, turning the brisket every couple of days.

  4. 4

    Preheat the smoker. Combine the crushed juniper berries and ground black pepper. Press two-thirds of the mixture into one side of the brisket, and the remaining into the other side.

  5. 5

    Place the brisket in the smoker and smoke for about 4 hours. Remove from smoker and cool for 30 minutes.

  6. 6

    Place the brisket in a large Dutch oven, cover with water, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce to a simmer and cook for 2 hours.

  7. 7

    Remove from the pan and cool completely. Slice into thin slices and serve.