Should Corned Beef Be Smoked Fat Side Up Or Down?

Corned beef is a delicious and versatile meat that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. But one of the most popular ways to cook corned beef is to smoke it. And when you’re smoking corned beef, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether to smoke it fat side up or down.

So, which is it? Fat side up or down?

The answer, as with most things, is that it depends. There are pros and cons to both methods, so the best way to decide is to consider your own personal preferences.

Fat Side Up

• Pros:
  • The fat will baste the meat as it cooks, adding flavor and keeping it moist.
  • The fat will help to create a crispy bark on the outside of the meat.
  • The fat will insulate the meat, preventing it from drying out.
• Cons:
  • The fat can be difficult to trim and remove after cooking.
  • The fat can make the meat greasy.
  • The fat can flare up and cause the meat to burn.

Fat Side Down

• Pros:
  • The meat will be more evenly cooked.
  • The meat will be less greasy.
  • The meat will be less likely to flair up and burn.
• Cons:
  • The meat will not be as flavorful.
  • The meat may dry out more easily.
  • The meat will not have a crispy bark.

So, which should you choose?

If you’re looking for the most flavorful and moist corned beef, then you’ll want to smoke it fat side up. However, if you’re looking for a leaner and less greasy corned beef, then you’ll want to smoke it fat side down.

Here are some additional tips for smoking corned beef:

• Use a good quality corned beef brisket.
• Trim the fat to your desired thickness.
• Season the corned beef with your favorite rub.
• Smoke the corned beef at a low temperature (225-250 degrees Fahrenheit) for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Let the corned beef rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQs

• What is the best wood to smoke corned beef with?

Hickory, oak, and applewood are all good choices for smoking corned beef.

• How long should I smoke corned beef per pound?

Smoke the corned beef for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Can I smoke corned beef in a regular smoker?

Yes, you can smoke corned beef in a regular smoker. Just be sure to use a low temperature (225-250 degrees Fahrenheit) and smoke the corned beef for 6-8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit.

• How long does smoked corned beef last?

Smoked corned beef will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

• Can I freeze smoked corned beef?

Yes, you can freeze smoked corned beef. Just wrap the corned beef tightly in freezer paper and freeze for up to 3 months.