How To Smoke Store-Bought Corned Beef

Smoking Store-Bought Corned Beef: A Delicious and Easy Guide

So, you’ve got your hands on some store-bought corned beef and you’re wondering how to take it to the next level. Well, look no further! Smoking store-bought corned beef is a fantastic way to add depth and flavor to this already delicious cut of meat. With the right technique and a bit of patience, you can transform your corned beef into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Choosing the Right Corned Beef

Before you fire up the smoker, it’s important to start with a high-quality piece of corned beef. When selecting your store-bought corned beef, look for one that is well-marbled and has a good layer of fat on the outside. This will help keep the meat moist and tender during the smoking process. Additionally, consider the size of the corned beef as it will impact the smoking time.

Preparing the Corned Beef

Before you start smoking, it’s essential to prepare the corned beef properly. Begin by rinsing the corned beef under cold water to remove any excess brine. Pat it dry with paper towels and then place it on a clean cutting board. At this point, you may want to trim some of the excess fat, but be sure to leave enough to keep the meat moist during the smoking process.

Seasoning the Corned Beef

Once the corned beef is prepped, it’s time to add some flavor. You can keep it simple with just a sprinkle of black pepper, or get creative with a homemade rub. A classic mix of black pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of brown sugar can work wonders. Whatever you choose, be sure to coat the entire surface of the corned beef evenly.

Smoking the Corned Beef

Now comes the fun part – firing up the smoker! Preheat your smoker to a temperature of around 225°F (107°C). While many types of wood can be used for smoking, hickory or oak are popular choices for corned beef due to their robust flavors. Once the smoker is up to temperature and the wood is producing a steady stream of smoke, it’s time to place the corned beef on the rack.

Cooking times can vary depending on the size of the corned beef, but as a general rule of thumb, you can expect it to take around 90 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.

Resting and Serving

Once the corned beef has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for about 15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender end product. After resting, slice the corned beef against the grain for maximum tenderness and serve it up with your favorite sides.

Final Thoughts

Smoking store-bought corned beef is a fantastic way to elevate this classic dish to new heights. With a little preparation and the right technique, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will have your friends and family begging for more. So, next time you’re in the mood for something special, consider firing up the smoker and giving store-bought corned beef the treatment it deserves.

Now, go ahead and impress everyone with your newfound smoking skills!