Should I separate point from flat brisket before smoking?
Chef's answer
In short, you want to remove the fat layer between the point and the flat. Using a sharp boning knife expose the point meat so it can absorb smoke. You do not have to completely separate the muscles.
Frequently asked Questions 🎓
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High quality extra virgin olive oils (with low free fatty acids) have a high smoke point. They are an excellent choice, but an expensive one. Mass produced, low quality olive oils have a much lower smoke point..
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The smoke point of oil is the temperature at which it stops shimmering and starts smoking.
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This cut is best for slicing and most likely what you'll find in your supermarket. It's also the best cut of brisket to use for Homemade Corned Beef. The point cut is thicker, smaller, and marbled with more fat and connective tissue than the flat cut..
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The point is a fattier cut of meat that might be harder to find in supermarkets. This portion is often chopped since it can be difficult to slice through meat so tender. The flat is usually what you'll find if you're getting a pre-cut brisket..
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The brisket is made up of two different muscles: the point and the flat. The point cut is the fatty part of the brisket, which is called the deckle. The flat cut, also known as "first cut", has the deckle removed, which makes it leaner and causes it to lay flat..
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In short, you want to remove the fat layer between the point and the flat. Using a sharp boning knife expose the point meat so it can absorb smoke. You do not have to completely separate the muscles.
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The point has more fat content, it's thicker, and some say a more flavorful cut. The brisket is a tough cut of meat. Some prefer the point because it tends to be more tender and juicy after cooking. The flat or round cut is much leaner, as you can see.
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