Smoky Chipotle Beef Brisket Tacos

Allergens

Gluten (in tortillas), Dairy (optional sour cream)

Ingredients

• 3 lbs beef brisket, trimmed
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 cups water
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 2 tbsp chili powder
• 2 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 flour or corn tortillas
• Optional toppings: diced red onions, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, crumbled queso fresco

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine apple cider vinegar, water, brown sugar, chipotle peppers and adobo sauce, chili powder, paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
2. Place the trimmed beef brisket in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over it, ensuring it is evenly coated. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
3. Preheat your outdoor grill to medium high heat, ensuring that one side is maintained at a lower temperature for indirect cooking. Remove the brisket from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Reserve the marinade.
4. Place the brisket on the grill, fat side up, over the indirect heat area. Cook with the lid closed for 3 hours, or until an internal temperature of 205°F is reached.
5. While the brisket cooks, place the reserved marinade in a saucepan and simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes, or until it reduces to a thick consistency. Set aside.
6. Once the brisket reaches an internal temperature of 205°F, wrap it tightly in aluminum foil and return it to the grill, still on the indirect heat side, for 1 more hour.
7. After an hour, remove the brisket from the grill and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. Slice against the grain into thin strips.
8. Assemble your tacos by placing a few slices of brisket on each tortilla and drizzling with the reduced marinade sauce. Add desired toppings, such as diced red onions, cilantro, lime wedges, sour cream, and crumbled queso fresco.

Chef’s Insight

Don't be afraid to experiment with different cuts of meat or additional seasonings to suit your taste.

Notes

For a spicier version, add more chipotle peppers to the marinade. You can also use this brisket in other dishes like nachos, salads, or sandwiches.