BBQ with Franklin Season 1 Episode 1 Brisket

BBQ with Franklin is a cooking show hosted by Aaron Franklin, a BBQ expert, restaurateur, and recipient of the James Beard Foundation Award. In season 1 episode 1, titled "Brisket," Aaron invites viewers to join him on a journey to cook the perfect beef brisket.

The episode begins with Aaron inspecting and selecting a quality cut of beef brisket from a local market. He explains to viewers the importance of choosing the right meat and how it can affect the final result of the BBQ. Aaron then takes the brisket back to his restaurant, Franklin BBQ, where he begins the process of seasoning the meat with a blend of spices.

Aaron explains the importance of properly seasoning the brisket with salt and pepper. He also shares his technique for applying the rub to ensure that it adds flavor but does not overpower the natural taste of the beef. Aaron then covers the brisket with foil and prepares his smoker, which he calls "Big Red."

As Aaron prepares the smoker, he talks about different types of wood used for smoking and why he prefers oak wood. He also shares his technique for lighting the fire and controlling the temperature, which he says is the key to cooking the perfect brisket. Aaron maintains a temperature of 250 degrees Fahrenheit for the entire cooking process, which takes about 12 hours.

As the brisket cooks, Aaron talks about the importance of patience and how BBQ is a slow and steady process that cannot be rushed. He also explains how he uses a spray bottle filled with water and apple cider vinegar to keep the brisket moist and prevent it from drying out.

Halfway through the cooking process, Aaron takes the brisket out of the smoker and wraps it in butcher paper. He explains that this helps to retain the moisture and creates a "bark" on the outside of the brisket. Aaron also talks about the importance of resting the meat for at least an hour before slicing it.

After the brisket has rested, Aaron unwraps it and slices it against the grain. He showcases how to identify the grain of the meat and why it is important to slice against it for tender, juicy meat. Aaron also talks about different types of sauce and how they can enhance the flavor of the brisket.

At the end of the episode, Aaron invites viewers to try cooking their own brisket and provides tips on how to get started. He emphasizes the importance of practice and encourages viewers to experiment with different woods, rubs, and cooking techniques to find what works best for them.

Overall, "Brisket" is an informative and engaging episode of BBQ with Franklin that provides viewers with a step-by-step guide to cooking the perfect beef brisket. Aaron's passion for BBQ and attention to detail make this episode a must-watch for anyone interested in the art of BBQ.