How Long to Cook Brisket in Ninja Foodi Grill

Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure with your Ninja Foodi Grill? You’ve come to the right place if you are dreaming of mouthwatering brisket! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of cooking brisket in your Ninja Foodi Grill to perfection. From preparation to cooking times, we’ve got you covered.

6 Steps to Cook Brisket in the Ninja Foodi Grill

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a moment to prepare the star of our show—the brisket. Preparing the brisket properly will ensure it turns out tender, juicy, and flavorful. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

1 whole beef brisket (approximately 10-12 pounds)
Your favorite dry rub or seasoning blend
Optional: liquid for braising (beef broth, apple juice, or beer)

Instructions:

Start by trimming any excess fat from the brisket. Leave a thin layer to enhance flavor and moisture during cooking.
Apply your favorite dry rub or seasoning blend generously to all sides of the brisket. Massage the spices into the meat, ensuring even coverage.
You can marinate the brisket overnight in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor and tenderness. This step is optional but highly recommended.

Now that our brisket is expertly seasoned and ready let’s move on to cooking.

Your Ninja Foodi Grill is a versatile appliance that combines the functionality of a grill and an air fryer, making it perfect for cooking a delicious brisket. Here’s how you can achieve brisket nirvana with your Foodi Grill:

Step 1: Preheating

Ensure that the Foodi Grill is clean and ready for use. If needed, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance.
Select the “Grill” function on the Foodi Grill and set the temperature to 250°F (120°C). Allow the grill to preheat for approximately 10 minutes.

Step 2: Searing the Brisket

Once the grill is preheated, place the seasoned brisket directly on the grill grate. Close the lid to maintain the cooking temperature.
Sear the brisket for 4-5 minutes per side to develop a beautiful crust and lock in the juices. Use tongs to flip the brisket carefully.

Step 3: Braising (Optional)

If you prefer a more moist and tender brisket, you can choose to braise it. This step is optional but highly recommended.
Remove the brisket from the grill and place it on a large aluminum foil. Pour a liquid of choice, such as beef broth, apple juice, or beer, over the brisket. Wrap the foil tightly around the brisket to create a sealed packet.
Return the brisket to the grill and continue cooking.

Step 4: Low and Slow Cooking

Reduce the grill temperature to 225°F (107°C) to cook the brisket low and slow, allowing the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.
Close the lid and let the brisket cook for approximately 1 hour per pound (0.45 kg). For a 10-pound brisket, this translates to around 10 hours of cooking time.
While cooking, resist the temptation to check on the brisket constantly. Opening the grill will release heat and extend the cooking time.

Step 5: Testing for Doneness

After the estimated cooking time has elapsed, it’s time to check if the brisket is done. While cooking times can vary depending on factors like the size of the brisket and your desired level of doneness, there are a few ways to determine if it’s ready.
First, you can use a meat thermometer to check the brisket’s internal temperature. For a tender and juicy brisket, aim for an internal temperature of around 195°F (90°C) to 205°F (96°C). Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding contact with bones.
Another method to test doneness is the “fork tenderness” test. Insert a fork into the meat and twist gently. The brisket is likely done if it goes in and out with minimal resistance. If it feels tough, continue cooking for a bit longer.
Remember that brisket is a forgiving cut of meat and benefits from extended cooking times. If the meat is not yet tender enough, you can continue cooking for 30 minutes to an hour and recheck for doneness.

Step 6: Resting and Slicing

Once the brisket reaches your desired level of doneness, please remove it from the grill and let it rest. Place it on a cutting board and tent it loosely with foil. Allow the brisket to rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
After the resting period, it’s time to slice the brisket. Use a sharp knife and cut against the grain to ensure tender slices. The meat’s grain will run in one direction, so cut perpendicular to it for the most tender results.
Serve the sliced brisket immediately and enjoy the flavorful rewards of your Ninja Foodi Grill cooking adventure!

Tips and Tricks for Brisket Success

Choose the right cut: Look for a beef brisket with good fat marbling. This fat will render during cooking, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
Patience is key: Brisket is a labor of love that rewards patience. Don’t rush the cooking process. Low and slow is the way to go for tender and succulent results.
Get creative with flavors: While a simple salt and pepper rub works wonders, experiment with different spice blends, marinades, or sauces to add your unique twist to the brisket.
Make it your own: Cooking is an art, so don’t be afraid to adjust cooking times and temperatures based on your preferences and equipment. Each brisket is unique, and the process can be tailored to suit your taste.

Now that you know how long to cook brisket in your Ninja Foodi Grill, it’s time to fire up the grill and savor the incredible flavors that await you. Whether hosting a backyard barbecue or craving a hearty meal, the Ninja Foodi Grill is your ticket to brisket perfection. Enjoy the journey, and may your brisket always be tender and flavorful!