When to start...

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mikeymjr23

Fire Starter
Original poster
May 25, 2016
40
10
I know that the meat will tell me when she's done, but I'm wondering what time I should start the smoker on Tuesday.

We are doing a pork Shoulder (8.5lbs) and a brisket (5.5lbs). We'd like them both ready to eat at 4pm. I know that I'd like at least 1 hour of resting for them both.

What would be your ideal start time if you were doing this? We are using a Char Broil 1280 offset with Kingsford. Throwing the occasional Apple log and Hickory chunk on top.

Gonna throw some ABTs on towards the end as well, but I wanted to be sure of what time to start. I'm guessing the pork Shoulder should be on 2 hours before the brisket. After that, I'm up for grabs with guesses...

Any help would be great!

TIA!
 
The cooking time is going to be determined by the temperature you are cooking at.  For example, I do a lot of home cooking on my 22" WSM (w/o water in the pan) at 275 degrees.  If I were cooking what you have stated, I would give my self at least 5 to 7 hours of cooking time at 275.  This does not include resting time.  Brisket and pork hold really well for long periods of time, so don't be afraid to hold it for 3 to 4 hours in a cooler with some towels.  The more time your allow for the cooking process, the better chance you have at serving the food at the time you desire.

Hope this helps.  Good luck.
 
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Thanks! We want to try to stay 225-250. Try being the key word.

I'm guessing that we'd need to put the pork on maybe 2 hours before the brisket???
 
If you're going to run at 225 figure 2h/lb for the pork and 1.5h/lb for the beef (it's small at 5.5 lbs). Of course that's just a rough guide. You're going to be cooking to temp and tenderness, not time. Also allow for at least a two hour rest for both pieces, foil wrapped, in cooler, covered with towels.
 
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Thanks! In talking with my BIL, we're thinking we're gonna have an easier time at 250...simply keeping the temp at a constant.

I'I'll definitely keep everyone posted...pics to follow!!
 
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