The duration required for smoking brisket is fundamentally determined by the weight of the cut. This relationship, expressed as time relative to weight, provides a crucial guideline for pitmasters seeking consistent results. For instance, a 12-pound brisket, based on a rate of time per pound, will necessitate a proportionally longer smoking period than an 8-pound brisket.
Accurate estimation of smoking time, derived from the brisket’s weight, is paramount for achieving optimal tenderness and flavor development. Underestimating the cooking duration can lead to a tough, undercooked product, while overestimation risks drying out the meat. Historically, experienced cooks have relied on this weight-time correlation, alongside internal temperature monitoring, to produce consistently high-quality smoked brisket.