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Flavorful Smoked Brisket Sliders with Zesty Jalapeño Slaw

smoked brisket sliders - featured image

Tender smoked brisket paired with a tangy, spicy jalapeño slaw served on toasted slider buns. Perfect for parties and casual gatherings with a smoky, savory, and zesty flavor combination.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 lbs beef brisket (preferably flat cut for even cooking)
  • 2 tbsp kosher salt
  • 2 tbsp coarsely ground black pepper
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Wood chips for smoking (hickory or oak recommended)
  • 3 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 2 large jalapeños, thinly sliced (seeds removed to reduce heat if preferred)
  • 1 medium carrot, shredded
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 3 tbsp fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1 tbsp honey or agave syrup
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise (vegan mayo for dairy-free option)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 12 slider buns (potato buns recommended)
  • Pickles (optional)
  • Butter, melted (for toasting buns)

Instructions

  1. Prep the brisket rub by combining kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl.
  2. Trim excess fat from the brisket, leaving about 1/4 inch for moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the brisket. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  4. Preheat smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add wood chips to smoker box or coals.
  5. Place brisket fat side up on smoker grate. Insert meat thermometer probe into thickest part.
  6. Smoke brisket until internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C), about 6-8 hours. Avoid opening smoker frequently.
  7. Remove brisket and wrap tightly in aluminum foil. Let rest for 30-60 minutes.
  8. While brisket smokes or rests, prepare jalapeño slaw by combining shredded green and red cabbage, jalapeños, carrot, and cilantro in a large bowl.
  9. In a separate bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Pour dressing over cabbage mixture and toss well. Chill until serving.
  10. Brush slider buns with melted butter and toast on skillet or grill until golden and crisp.
  11. Slice brisket thinly across the grain. Assemble sliders by placing brisket slices on bun bottoms, topping with jalapeño slaw and pickles if desired, then crown with bun tops.
  12. Serve immediately.

Notes

Keep a spray bottle of water handy to stabilize smoker temperature. Slice brisket cold for neat slices. For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. Use vegan mayo for dairy-free slaw. Rotate brisket occasionally during smoking for even cooking. Resting brisket wrapped in foil is crucial for juiciness. Toast buns with butter to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

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