The Ultimate Chuck Roast Recipe: Poor Man's Brisket

TLDRLearn how to make a delicious and affordable chuck roast that rivals a traditional brisket. Smoke it low and slow for incredible flavor and juiciness.

Key insights

Chuck roast offers a budget-friendly alternative to brisket with similar tenderness and flavor.

Dry brining the chuck roast enhances its moisture and flavor.

Using a Traeger Ironwood 885 with super smoke mode creates a beautiful smoke ring and imparts a rich smoky flavor.

Resting the roast for 2 hours after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy meat.

Season the chuck roast with a rub for beef, which enhances the flavor and creates a delicious bark.

Q&A

What is the difference between chuck roast and brisket?

Chuck roast is a cut of beef from the shoulder area, while brisket comes from the chest area. Chuck roast is more affordable and can be a great alternative to brisket with similar tenderness and flavor.

How long should I cook the chuck roast?

Cook the chuck roast low and slow at 225°F for about 7-8 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 200°F for maximum tenderness.

Why is dry brining important?

Dry brining the chuck roast with a rub for beef enhances its moisture and flavor. The salt in the rub draws out moisture from the meat, which then gets reabsorbed along with the flavors of the rub, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.

Can I use a different smoker instead of the Traeger Ironwood 885?

Yes, you can use any smoker or grill that allows you to maintain a low and consistent temperature. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

What should I serve with the chuck roast?

The chuck roast pairs well with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, and cornbread. Don't forget the BBQ sauce!

Timestamped Summary

01:10The chuck roast used in this recipe is incredibly marbled and offers excellent flavor and tenderness at an affordable price.

03:12Dry brining the chuck roast with a rub for beef helps to enhance its moisture and flavor.

08:52The Traeger Ironwood 885 with super smoke mode is the perfect smoker for creating a beautiful smoke ring and adding a rich smoky flavor to the meat.

12:26After a 7-hour cook, the chuck roast is incredibly tender and juicy. Let it rest for 2 hours before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

17:45Season the chuck roast with a rub for beef to enhance its flavor and create a delicious bark on the outside.