The best way to keep a brisket warm is to cover it tightly and put it in an insulated container. This can keep your brisket warm for up to 6 hours and possibly more. For example, you can wrap the brisket in towels in place the briskets in a Yeti.
As chefs, we had commercial holding ovens to keep smoked recipes warm all day but you can use non-commercial containers like coolers and holding cabinets at home.
Keeping briskets warm
Brisket is a beloved and mouth-watering BBQ dish that requires time and effort to prepare. From seasoning it to slow-smoking it to perfection, the last thing you want is for your meticulously cooked brisket to get cold before serving. In this blog post, we’ll explore some tried-and-true methods to help you keep your brisket warm and delicious until it’s time to dig in.
1. Wrap it Up:
One of the most common and effective ways to keep brisket warm is to wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or butcher paper. This method helps retain heat and prevents the meat from drying out. Start by wrapping the brisket in a layer of foil, followed by a layer of butcher paper to create an insulating barrier. Place the wrapped brisket in an insulated cooler or an oven set to a low temperature (around 170°F/75°C), and it will stay warm for several hours.
2. Keep it in a Chafing Dish:
Another option to keep your brisket warm is by using a chafing dish. Chafing dishes are designed specifically to maintain the temperature of food during serving. Place your sliced or shredded brisket in a chafing dish, and keep the dish over a low flame or with the help of a Sterno fuel can underneath. This method is ideal for buffet-style serving or when hosting a gathering.
3. Utilize a Warming Drawer:
If you’re lucky enough to have a warming drawer in your kitchen, it can be an excellent tool to keep your brisket warm. Set the drawer to a low temperature, around 140°F/60°C, and place your cooked brisket in a covered pan or dish inside. The warming drawer will maintain the desired temperature until you’re ready to serve.
4. Double-Wrap with Towels:
In the absence of aluminum foil or butcher paper, you can wrap your brisket tightly in several layers of clean towels. Start by lining a large cooler with towels, then place the wrapped brisket on top. Cover the brisket with more towels, and tightly close the cooler lid. The towels help hold in the heat, ensuring your brisket stays warm for an extended period.
5. Consider a Hot Holding Cabinet:
If you often find yourself needing to keep large quantities of brisket warm, investing in a hot holding cabinet may be worth considering. These cabinets are designed to hold food at a safe serving temperature for an extended period. They typically have adjustable temperature settings and can accommodate multiple trays of food, making them ideal for catering or professional kitchens.
Remember, while it’s crucial to keep your brisket warm, it’s equally important to maintain its quality. Avoid keeping brisket warm for too long, as extended exposure to heat can lead to the meat drying out. Aim to serve the brisket as promptly as possible while ensuring it retains its tenderness and juiciness.
Now that you have these tips up your sleeve, you’ll have no trouble keeping your brisket warm and delectable until it’s time to indulge. Enjoy your perfectly cooked and fragrant brisket, and impress your family and friends with your expertise!
Happy cooking!
