How to Slice a Brisket

There's nothing better than a good brisket. When smoked low and slow, this perfect cut of beef transforms into something magical - the once-tough meat becomes tender enough to pull apart with a fork, while developing a gorgeous dark bark on the outside that's packed with complex flavors - Each bite is packed with that amazing smoky beef flavor that just makes you want to keep eating. Whether you're hanging out in the backyard watching it smoke or sitting down to eat with friends and family, a properly cooked brisket is just pure happiness on a plate. You may want to check out our complete "How to Smoke a Brisket" guide as well.

Your Brisket just Finished Cooking.

You worked so hard trimming, seasoning, and dealing with the long smoke. You might think “The work is done lest just slice into this bad boy and chow down!” We are here to tell you to pump the breaks! Just slicing right into a brisket any ole way can and will ruin all the hard work you put into the cook. Don’t worry we have sliced hundreds, maybe even thousands, of briskets over the past 11 years in our catering business. We are gonna go step by step to ensure you have the best finished product around.

Step 1: Allow the Brisket to Rest

We will scream it as loud as we possibly can. Resting is absolutely essential for any long cook, especially a brisket. Once you remove the brisket from the heat source you will want to allow it to rest for at least 2 hours, but we suggest 3-4. Don’t just toss it on the counter!! We suggest allowing it to rest slowly in a temperature controlled cambro, Yeti (or like) cooler, or if you must an oven. If you are going to use a cooler or over we suggest wrapping it in a towel. RESTING IS THE MOST IMPORTANT PART!

Step 2: Identify the Grain of the Meat

Before slicing the brisket, it's essential to identify the direction of the grain. The grain refers to the lines of muscle fibers running through the meat. A whole brisket has two parts the lean (less fatty) and the point (all the fatty goodness). The grain of the lean and the grain of the point are running in different directions so if you just start slicing all one direction you will likely mess up half the brisket.

Step 3: Separate the Point and Flat of the Brisket

Most briskets the point and the flat is about right in the middle. The flat is thinner and where it begins to bulge up is where the point is. We are right handed so we like to place the brisket down on a cutting board with the lean to our left and the point to our right. Using a sharp slicing knife or brisket knife (a serrated blade if possible) cut the brisket around the halfway mark where you believe the flat and point meet. This is where we start.

Step 4: Slicing of the Brisket

We like to place our left hand on the lean side and starting where we made our initial slice begin slicing the lean side first (right to left). We try to slice the lean side about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. On the far right side of the point remove about an inch or so (this is the burnt end) put it to the side for taste testing, it’s delicious. Next rotate the point 45 degrees place your left hand on the point and begin slicing (right to left) we like to slice the point about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick.

Step-by-step Brisket Slicing Video:

Step 5: Arrange and Serve

Once you have sliced the entire brisket, arrange the tender slices on a serving platter or cutting board. Maintain the order of slices for an aesthetically pleasing presentation. Serve the sliced brisket alongside your favorite Lane's sauce (We recommend our Sorta White sauce) or additional seasonings.

Tips and Tricks for Slicing Brisket

• Use a Sharp Knife: A sharp carving knife is crucial for achieving clean and precise slices of brisket. Dull knives can tear the meat, affecting its texture and presentation.
• Practice Consistency: Aim to slice the brisket into uniform thickness to ensure that each piece is cooked consistently and tender.
• Slice to Order: For the best results, slice the brisket just before serving to maintain its juiciness and tenderness.

By following these steps and tips, you can master the art of slicing a brisket like a pro, impressing your family and friends with tender, flavorful meat that melts in their mouths.

Check out our complete How to Smoke a Brisket Guide.