These Brisket Marinade Recipes Add Something Special

Before you smoke a brisket it needs to be prepared for the smoker. If you haven't smoked one before, spend a few minutes brushing up on the ways of brisket smoking.

German Lager Marinade

This marinade includes a rich German beer as its base. You'll need...

• One 22oz bottle of Beck's Lager
• 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 3 shallots, finely diced
• 2 tablespoons clover honey
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 1 habanero pepper, halved and seeded

NOTE: Be very careful working with habanero peppers. Use gloves and don't touch the eyes.

Combine the ingredients, being sure the honey and salt are dissolved. In a non-reactive container, marinate the brisket for 24 to 48 hours before smoking.

Citrus Brisket Marinade

Acidic citrus juices add flavor and help tenderize that brisket for the smoker.

• 1 pint orange juice
• juice from one lemon
• juice from two limes
• 3/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 cup canola oil

Mix, then marinate your brisket for two hours. For added flavor, rub one tablespoon of paprika into the meat just before smoking.