What to Spritz Brisket With (8 Delicious Liquids to Try)

To spritz or not to spritz your brisket? 

That is the question…

We reckon you should be using a brisket spritz

But does it really improve the flavor bark? how to do it?

We’re going to break down if it does it.

Plus we’ll show you the best types of liquid to use for the next time you’re smoking a brisket. 

Should You Be Spritzing Brisket During A Cook?

It is highly debated in the BBQ community whether spritzing is effective or not. 

We believe that spritzing is a great technique to help to keep moist meat.

It’s worth also trying if you are smoking tri-tip, as this cut has a tendency to dry out.

Some experts say that it gives it a deep smoke ring, keeps the meat tender, and stops the bark from overheating. 

Not only that the moisture surface will attract more smoke which can add extra flavor to your meat.

Plus its helps if you have applied a rub with sugar in it, as the moisture will help it caramelize.

What to Spritz on Your Brisket During Smoking (Our 8 Favorites)

Below are 8 favorite things to spritz on brisket. We like to experiment and try new concoctions all the time!

Our wasabi and beer mix was an interesting one!

 1. Spritzing With Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a great, inexpensive ingredient to use as a spritz. 

It will help the bark become dark and crunchy. 

We recommend mixing it with a bit of apple juice and a cup of water to dilute it. 

2. Spritzing With Beer

Are you saying I can drink it and eat it?

Indeed. 

Dark ales are best as a spritz. 

They provide amazing flavor and are perfect for giving extra moisture. 

3. Spritzing With Melted Butter

Butter is a good alternative to using oil as a spritz. 

Add some water to the butter so that it doesn’t become a thick paste. 

Keep the butter warm so that it doesn’t solidify and block up the spray bottle. 

4.Spritzing With Apple Juice

Apple juice is a tasty and popular spritz option. 

Apple juice is great if you want to give it a nice bark, that is caramelized. 

If you find the juice is too sweet, dilute it with water first. 

5. Spritzing With Beef Broth

Broth is a relatively safe option when it comes to spritzing. 

If you’re worried about your brisket becoming too salty or sweet, broth should be your go-to. 

Broth is also less sticky than beer or apple juice as a spritz. 

6. Spritzing With Worcestershire Sauce

If using Worcestershire Sauce, douse the meat every 90 minutes throughout the smoke. 

If you find the sauce is too heavy, add some water. 

Worcestershire Sauce gives off a strong but tasty extra layer of flavor. 

7. Spritzing With Water

Sometimes simple is the best way to go. 

Do you want to give your brisket extra moisture without messing with the flavor?

No problem. Water is the answer. 

8. Other Alternative Spritzes

If you’re looking to try something a bit different, here are some other alternatives. 

• Red Wine Vinegar 
• Pineapple Juice
• Bourbon
• Whiskey
• Beef Stock
• Apple Juice and BBQ Sauce
• Wine and Water
• Hot Sauce
• Olive Oil

How Often Do You Spritz?

After 90 minutes, you should spritz your brisket every 45 minutes.

This varies for each type of meat. Find out how often to spritz meat when smoking here.

What Do I Need To Spritz?

You will need: 

• A Brisket
• A Spray Bottle
• Your Chosen Liquid 
• Any Extra Seasonings

How To Spritz Brisket

We’ve outlined the cooking process you need to take to spritz your brisket. 

Step 1: Rub your brisket with seasoning or a rub. 

Step 2: Fire up your smoker. Place the brisket in the smoker.

Step 3: Spritz brisket with your spray after 90 minutes. Reapply every 45 minutes- 1 hour. Let the brisket cook for 4-6 hours, regularly reapplying with the spritz.

Wrapping the Brisket (Optional)

Step 4: Wrap the brisket in aluminum foil or butcher paper and return it to the smoker. 

Step 5: Check the internal temp with a temperature probe. When it reaches an internal temperature of 195-203°F you can pull the brisket and place it in a cooler to rest.

Step 6: Let the meat rest for a while. And then, serve up your sides and enjoy your finished brisket! 

What Spray Bottle Should I Use?

Any regular spray bottle is suitable. 

Some spray bottles even have a function where they can work sideways and upside down.

This type of bottle could come in handy if you need to spray the brisket quickly. 

How Often Should I Spray

We recommend letting your brisket cook for at least 2 hours before spritzing. 

Continue to spritz every 45 minutes (unless otherwise stated by your recipe)

But, be careful not to spritz too much or the smoker will lose heat. 

How Does Spritzing Effect Flavor?

Not only does the liquid leave a residual flavor on the meat, but it also attracts smoke. 

This gives the brisket a unique smoke flavor. 

If you love an additional layer of flavor this could be the technique for you!

Do You Taste Apple Cider Vinegar In Brisket

Wondering if you will taste the apple cider vinegar on brisket?

The answer is no, you won’t taste the vinegar on your finished brisket. The vinegar flavor will cook out. Similar to cooking with wine.

Is There Anything Wrong With Spritzing?

Some people spritz, some people don’t. 

The only major downsides to spritzing are the time it takes and the risk of the bark softening too much. 

Ultimately, the bark will soften anyway once it is wrapped but you want to preserve it as much as possible. 

What Is Mopping?

Mopping is an alternative method to spritzing where you apply a thicker sauce using a brush.  

Both mopping and spritzing are effective methods, it depends upon how heavy you want your flavors. 

We think spritzing can help contain moisture, add flavor, and slow your cooking down! So recommend doing it!

There are plenty of liquid options out there to suit every set of taste buds! You just need to experiment and find out what you like!

Do you spritz your brisket?

Smoke On!

Charlie

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