Cost of beef is getting crazy, Trying out ungraded briskets from Costco business center

First off, I’m not squeezing it.. haha ! I even tried to rest it on the blade so I could hold it gently.. I’m also trialling new seasonings, so apologies if the bark isn’t up to snuff.

Briskets have exploded in price for prime/AAA so wanting to smoke briskets more often, it’s good to see what cheaper grades and ungraded cuts turn out like.

I bought a case of these ungraded briskets, the one thing noticeable immediately is the size, they’re quite a bit smaller and the fat isn’t as abundant and some have a slight yellow tinge. I do have to say, while trimming this one and another the marbling was really great I’ll try and post some screen grabs in the comments. But for literally 50 percent off compared to prime, I’m down with this brisket on a budget!

This seen about 14 hours on smoke, wrapped with the boat method when it was sitting around 169 internal. Rendered beef tallow all night and poured that in to the wrap.

Finished up when it was probe tender I think it was 202 roughly. Sat on the counter for a bit then in to the oven at 170 for 4 hours. It then sat on the counter for an hour before slicing.

If you’re able to buy ungraded meat in your area and you’re also held back from buying prime more often because of cost, this might be the alternative you need to have it more than just on occasion!

Cheers!🍻