I Got Schooled by The Best New BBQ Joint in Texas - Bar-A-BBQ

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Is this family incredible or what?!?!?! Who should I go learn from next? Oh - and don't worry I'm growing the hair back out natural!

[@kokicubano]

The Brisket Shoppe in Tampa.. Trust me you won't be disappointed by the food, the story or what they do for the community

[@JOSESBBQ]

go to barbs

[@craigfuhr]

HOLY COW - could they have been any more real and authentic? Loved that hospitality.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

@@craigfuhr right? The whole family was incredible.

[@JohnJohnson-sx1cd]

Lil’ Miss BBQ in Phoenix Az

[@ryangies4798]

This is how it's done folks! A top 10 BBQ tutorial, literally showing from A-Z. No gatekeeping, no secrets. Thanks for posting Al.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks Ryan! This is by far my favorite video of the over 200 I've made for the channel so far!

[@2005Pilot]

@@BehindTheFoodTVmine too!! Really happy you lost the red scare! Uhhhh I mean hair 😉

[@epickleuva]

My guess is there was a lot that was left out. People don’t just give away all of their secrets that they work years for. Smoke and mirrors.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

@@epickleuva see that’s the thing about these masters - they don’t hold back. Watch the follow-up videos where I recreate their recipes at home - they are teaching us everything.

[@ryangies4798]

@@epickleuva They’re literally showing you the steps and giving you their recipes. I mean, do you need them to come over to your house? 😂

[@WonkoTSane]

I had a chance to meet and talk with Cooper a couple of weeks ago as part of Leroy and Lewis' New School BBQ U class. He took the time to drive to Austin to speak with us about the BBQ business, how he learned to cook, the path he took to opening his place, his philosophy on work/life balance (He makes sure that he is home every night to put his kids to bed even though it means he will be back at work for a few hours later that night), and a ton of other topics. He ended the talk by giving us all his contact information and telling us we could hit him up with any questions at any time and he truly meant it. He is one of the most genuine people I have met in a very long time. I need to make the 2000 mile or so trip to eat at his place.

[@commishg]

This is by far the best video you have ever made. It's because BBQ is more than just a story about food. It's a story about the experience of making and sharing BBQ, and of the hardworking people who do it for a living. You nailed it. You captured the story of a wonderful family who took the lessons they learned from the gridiron to the pit iron and are now winning on the competitive field of Texas BBQ. They showed you their entire playbook because they care about the future of BBQ and are paying it forward. To the Abercrombie family, thank you for showcasing the best of small-town America. And when the next Texas Top 50 list comes out, I hope you rock the BBQ world.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks for the kind words. Really. I think you’ve captured this family’s spirit - and that of most of the bbq world we are so lucky to be a part of.

[@johnpenner2632]

Cooper is as humble as they come, always giving credit to those that he learned from and those that help him. This is one of the many things that will guarantee his long term success. He has assembled a fantastic team combining family and friends that work their butts off to help him. I wish him the best, he certainly deserves it.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

I couldn’t have said it better myself.

[@benjismith593]

I'm glad these boys aren't trying to hide anything. Making BBQ isn't about secret rub n glazes. I've been doing it for years, and I still mess things up. Time, temp, feel, are the most important. Keeping things consistent. What a great family , and I'm going to make those cookies.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

You're spot on. And I'm making the cookies tonight! (Video in a few weeks!)

[@brandonin_ny]

I will admit I haven’t seen all of your videos, but I’d be surprised if any were better than this. It was EASY to sit and watch for 50 minutes and I was bummed when it was over. Well done, sir!!!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Wow thanks! This was definitely a labor of love.

[@scottm3717]

Wow didn’t even realize was that long. How long did they keep in the warmer

[@randyshifter]

This video turned out awesome Al.. you are gunna break the internet with this one. It was such a good time working with you and Nick. Cooper, Caleb, coach, and the team were all great people to meet.. Anyone watching should definitely make the trip to Bar-A-BBQ and experience their great bbq.. thanks again for inviting me to help yall with this!!.🇨🇱

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks, Randy. It was so fun working (and hanging out) with you on this shoot. I'm really proud of what we all created here. Thanks for your help and your friendship sir!

[@brian2359]

That’s one proud father right there! That right there is what America should be! What agratpace

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

You’re absolutely right Brian. The whole thing was quite an experience.

[@coachtim6188]

What a what?

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

@@coachtim6188 lol he meant what a great place!

[@brian2359]

@@BehindTheFoodTV Al translates my NJ into normal English! Only people from the NY can do that!

[@coachtim6188]

@@BehindTheFoodTV ahhhh. Normally I'm decent at deciphering typos. My wife gives me plenty of practice. Couldn't figure this one out.

[@andrewivery2459]

Coach's love and admiration for the kids is awesome. I'm in Conroe and will be visiting soon!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

It was really moving to talk to him! Make sure you ask to have a beer with him and let them all know that I sent you! -Al

[@billordaf9510]

This was way beyond words can describe as the best family oriented BBQ business we have ever seen. Top notch!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks for the kind words! I've actually got a series of these, many with families highlighted. You can watch them all here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ip-neaSDeLaff5Y

[@justinreynaud1598]

I love this. No secrets, just wham bam this is how we season and smoke. I have learned so much on my journey to be a backyard pitmaster. Matt Pittman and Jirby from Goldees have really helped me a lot get better and better and this guy is no different. Hope he has tons of success.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

You're spot on, Justin - it's the generosity of guys like Cooper, Matt and Jonny (and if you watch my other I Got Schooled videos Barrett Black, Harry Soo, Winnie Yee, James Mack and more) that make the BBQ community so special.

[@justinreynaud1598]

@@BehindTheFoodTVyou are absolutely right. The bbq community is so special. The genuiness of the people to open bout their methods how they are willing to show you everything that has made them successful. I love all the I Got Schooled videos! Ive learned a lot from each of them. The fact that each and every one of them allowed you to post videos about the ins and outs speaks volume about them as a person. They really want you so succeed as well.

[@davecarlson6836]

Cooper and everyone were so generous with their time and experience. It's no wonder why they are so successful and deserve all the praise they garner. I wish I could go there someday and try their bbq and have a beer with Coach.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Do it Dave! The only thing better than the food there is the people. And I guarantee your beer with coach will be time well spent!

[@TwilightTXbbq]

I just want to say from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU!! … Thank you for sharing how you do what you do. I had been at a loss for a glaze to finish my ribs and today after carefully watching this video and taking notes, i successfully made some of the best ribs to ever come out of my smoker. God bless!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

I’m so glad this helped! -Al

[@allentruitt8632]

This brother is literally the most honest Pitt boss. It really is simple. It's all about temperature control and patience. Not spices or rubs. Love it.

[@BWIL2515]

A true representation of Texas families the kindness and thoughtfulness and the BS from Dad man I can't tell you how many times in my life these type of stories and experiences everything was perfect even the smoking but now I'm hungry heading to Kroger's their ribs are on sale thank you for sharing also if I'm ever there tell coach I'll be seeing him I wondering if it will be a Lonestar longneck of course

[@erichenberger]

I absolutely loved this video. Thank you for sharing the Abercrombie’s story of family, community, and how their BBQ story came to life. I love Coach’s message about selflessness and focusing on the kiddos and how important that is. This family has such a sense of humble competence and I love how simple they keep things to make an excellent meal.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks Eric. You captured their essence perfectly.

[@personwithadog]

Little late to the video. I’ve known Cooper for a few years. Down to earth and an amazing man. Love what he has done

[@Rigdawg]

Watched for years. This content made me subscribe. Thank you brother.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Wow thanks man. I really really like making this kind of content. Look for more of it in the future!

[@andreastullgren7595]

Fantastic video and fantastic family. This is just 50 minutes of joy. If I come to Texas this will definately be on my list. And kudos to the new haircut :D

[@gunboom]

This BBQ Joint is everything they say and more. Great BBQ.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

You can say that again

[@loridarlin1]

I lived in Montgomery for 12 years and it is a beautiful place. What makes it beautiful is the people, the community, and then the surroundings. Montgomery is an amazing place to raise a family and to create a feeling of belonging. God bless y’all! Much love ❤️🇨🇱

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

I didn't even know Montgomery existed before learning about Bar-A-BBQ. It was an amazing discovery - and you're right the people and community are incredible. I hope if you go back to visit you'll stop in and see the Abercrombies and tell them hello from me!

[@primeanalogrecords]

Great interviews and the explanation of everything including glaze and cookies amazing! Wish I had the magic touch like he does but it comes over time!

[@beckyhannert3823]

Love the new look Al! Spent lots of time in Montgomery and Conroe glad to see them featured. Also love reading the comments and your replies of class to crass!

[@smokingtarheel3003]

This video was incredible. I'd love to fly down to Montgomery TX and try it. So glad you guys got to go down there. Y'all did an excellent job with the production.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks so much! You should go. I’m definitely going back!

[@patewok3649]

This was probably my favorite show you've done. I'm looking forward to do a Texas BBQ roadtrip. Keep up the great work.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks! It’s my favorite so far too!

[@tysiahharper2415]

Cold smoking is something new.. Thank you!! Definitely doing this

[@erikj.nuveenmddmd6557]

Very, very well done. Interesting, informative, clean and to the point. Revealed the greatness of America and an American family. Heartwarming, indeed.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks for watching and for the kind words. Did you see the new episode that just dropped on Friday? It’s a good one too!

[@erikj.nuveenmddmd6557]

@@BehindTheFoodTV Headed there now!

[@mikenicholson2548]

Thanks for this video. It's the best one I have ever seen on youtube.

[@JudiChristopher]

19:57 I LOVE his Blue Shirt... BEAUTIFUL

[@ukiddme7405]

This was the best videos I have seen on how to cook bbq boy I learned a lot thank you to all

[@williamwilson2624]

You did an awesome job with this video! All the food looked amazing!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks William!

[@georgepagakis9854]

There are many BBQ channels on KZbin, I only subscribe to Eat More Vagans! I love your channel, keep up the great work this video is a game changer. Completely different than how we are use to doing it. I will change the way I smoke now! It's amazing how humble they are to give out their secrets like that. The most important thing I learned is Love what you do! Amazing

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks for the kind words George! This is why we do what we do!

[@robertjason6885]

What a warm and wonderful episode. This is spectacularly watchable. Way to go, Al.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks Robert!

[@robertjason6885]

@@BehindTheFoodTVU betcha.

[@JeffreyMoyer-ms7nv]

I really learned so much and these guys are so down to earth and friendly!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

They really are. Thanks for watching Jeffrey!

[@MrCkliesing]

one of the best BBQ stories ever , I hope to see them @ #1 soon & definitely drinking a beer with coach !

[@MageePullman]

Everyone has been made for some particular work, and the desire for that work has been put in every heart.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Well said

[@erickwalsh9258]

Cooper, Shelby, and Caleb are legends. Bar-A is one of the best.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Amen. And don’t forget Coach!

[@militantnormal428]

What an amazing family! Nice job highlighting what they do!

[@Pikapp43]

Your best video yet! Really enjoyed learning about that family.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Yay! Thank you!

[@robertchua5229]

4:15 I am pleasantly pleased to hear the mention of no carbs and carnivore. Good that more people are aware of the dangers of carbs at least we have a choice to eat it or not. A thank you to Mr. Cooper Abercrombie for sharing your recipe you rock. 😁

[@terrytio8982]

Great video and your fireside chat was sweet. Well done!

[@dennisbost2084]

Hi. Just found your channel. I also JUST got back from taking my motorcycle from Homestead FL to Las Cruces NM, stopping at a number of BBQ spots on my way there and back. Didn't get the access from most of the stops that you did, but was a great time. Kudos

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

@@dennisbost2084 welcome! And that sounds like an amazing trip! What was your favorite stop?

[@dennisbost2084]

@@BehindTheFoodTV Hard to choose, but gonna say Terry Black's in Lockhart. First warm reception I got, but Burnt Bean and Rudy's in Las Cruces are RIGHT there

[@allenbateman3518]

Hey Al, can't tell you how many times ive watched this video, these guys are just great! What a family.. I wanna go eat there and drink a beer with coach. But, how did Cooper season the brisket?

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Brisket wasn’t one of the things he showed me, we just talked about it because they went in while we were filming - and I kept it because it was so interested! I’m pretty sure he seasons them like the beef ribs, but I can’t be sure.

[@jimmiemercer8930]

Hands Down The Best BBQ Video Ever! Thanks For Everything You've Done Putting This Outstanding Tutorial Out Here For Everyone To Enjoy And Learn From ❤

[@re7206]

Gonna try them all. Thanks guys. Even with their knowledge. As a long time pitcooker. I know. Its not easy to duplicate. Cant fake experience. Especially with offset cooking. Really one of favorite videos

[@bryanmatthews691]

I love seeing coach on here and seeing his support

[@allenbateman3518]

Great video. This is the second one I have seen featuring them.. They seem like a great, fun and humble family. Would love to try their food. Thanks for sharing Al.....

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks Allen. If you ever find yourself near Houston I can’t recommend stopping in enough!

[@jarrettparker6818]

The hospitality from Texas is the essence of America

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Amen to that.

[@mikemays6236]

Great show! My wife and I are planning a trip down there this week. A question though, I don't have a warmer, so am wondering how to finish with success? I want the glazes and tallow, etc. to be incorporated.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks! Say hi to the team for me and make sure you have a beer with Coach for me! The easy answer is here: emv4.me/vevorwarmer - the harder answer is that most home ovens can be recalibrated - look it up in your manual or Google it. You just set the offset to be 20°F off so it's actually 150°F when the oven thinks it's 170°F. But trust me get the warmer - it changes BBQ so much not having to stay up all night that you'll find yourself happily making tomorrow's dinner tonight all the time!

[@19Silver67]

Love it!! My stomach is GRUMBLING and my mouth is watering!! Thank you much for sharing your BBQ!!!! I was just throwing 2 racks of baby backs when i found this video. Made your sauce and trying your method now.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

How did they turn out?

[@troyv8302]

That was a heck of a video Al, felt like I knew this family by the end of it. Food looked great too, thanks!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks Troy. We are really proud of this one!

[@jasoncooper7738]

Wow! what a great tutorial! Thank you! Great show, great people! where can i get one of those Bar-A-BBQ Hats?

[@perryl5150]

This guy is quintessential America! I'm proud for him!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

So well said, Perry!

[@popshillfamilyfarm6897]

Awesome, awesome video. This is a trip to Montgomery worth looking forward too. Can't wait.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks! And you’re right it’s worth the trip.

[@adamjensen8112]

I want a beer with coach. What a family.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Tell him I say hi when you go!

[@bernardsbbq]

What an incredible video, that is a new level you reached, Al. I have learned a lot from these guys.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks so much Bernard! I wish I could make only these videos. I truly love meeting and learning from these good people!

[@billybastar4022]

Another great video! Thank you. I have a question, did I miss it? What is the warming hold temp?

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks Billy! If I remember correctly they run their holding oven at 145F. I have been running mine at 150F FWIW. BTW - did you see I made another one of these I Got Schooled videos that dropped on Friday?

[@billybastar4022]

@@BehindTheFoodTV thank you for the clarification. I did, I have it on my watch list!!

[@matthewmiller7527]

Real dude right here no secrets. I appreciate that, its like hey here it is but go ahead and try and get these results. Thats confidence right there

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Yup. And well earned confidence.

[@DerekEstrada-b6g]

Great video Al! Man, Cooper would be clowning on me too since i wear heat gloves haha. This is my second video of Bar-A BBQ video and this was very well done and entertaining, the 50 mins flew by

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks man. I do feel like less of a man when I’m working next to these guys who live and breathe fire. Such natural talent too!

[@larrytrevino7119]

Wow thanks for the tips, crazy how the clean blue smoke was pretty much debunked.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

I learn so many things making these videos. Did you see the one that I dropped this morning? Even more great nuggets!

[@joehitterman8620]

Awesome behind the scenes video, thanks!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks for watching!

[@CookingwithStephennJacklyn]

Hey AL I've been a longtime Subscriber through a mutual friend A.K.A Dash lol 😂. I've to say this video is off the charts ...well done buddy. Cheers 🍻....from Trinidad & Tobago 🇹🇹

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Hi Stephen! I just talked to Dash the other day. Thanks for the kind words. We plan to make lots of these going forward if we can keep finding sponsors for them. They really are the videos I’m proudest of!

[@absoz]

need a bit of colour on your scalp my friend Wow, what an amazing place to be able to visit and learn from - and the humbleness of them all Looking forward to watching you try their way of making amazing flavourful goodness

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Oh trust me after 3 days in the Texas sun I took some color home with me! And yes this was a trip that had a huge impact on me - both the people and the food.

[@LCa-ul5ll]

Great video. All the meat looks fantastic, especially the beef ribs

[@rwcah]

Fantastic video. One of the best ever. Looking forward to a trip to Montgomery.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks! Make sure you tell them Al sent you!

[@ricardocruz1172]

Excellent content. Loving the stories. Thanks.

[@TechMOGogy]

Question... do you know what temp their warmer was for ribs and how long they held them in it before service? Great video!

[@chrisjhanson]

Well done, such an incredible family. What are your thoughts on doing a variation of this, cold smoke, on a pellet grill?

[@militantnormal428]

Why does this channel not have more followers? You do a great job!

[@DeviousDungeonsPainting]

The garlic flavored liquid margarine on the turkey broke my heart.

[@RichsRantMMAofficialchannel]

Hey man you’re killing it. You definitely have the right personality for what you do. I enjoy watching your vids, keep it up! 👍🏾

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Dude, your comment made my day! Thanks for watching and supporting the channel.

[@t-reyh5937]

Montgomery is a chill little town, just up the road from Conroe, and far enough away from the hustle and bustle of Houston. Wish I still had my deer lease 20 miles from there. Great vid, looks like a good reason to take an hour trip back to Montgomery.

[@rifleman1873]

Awesome family. I will get over to try their BBQ as soon as possible. Gonna have a beer with Coach when I go too.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Man I'm jealous. Tell Coach I said hi!

[@lancedean5987]

I now have a reason to go to Texas and say I need a beer with Coach!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Yes! And tell him Al sent you!

[@RaymondParker-h2p]

I'm in West Haven Ct. When I get to Texas I'll be there, Thank you, it's refreshing without egos.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

You should definitely go! Have you been to HooDoo Brown BBQ in Ridgefield?

[@chrisdroblyn]

Fantastic. I will say, you can force the meat to sweat using salt first on ANY meat then pepper vs. binders. I don't use them.

[@mabenjamin1]

Man I learned more watching this video than any other video on here. I’m definitely about to switch up my bbq skills

[@gregorytragitt2208]

I will make sure I visit the next time I travel to Houston. This family is wonderful.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Tell them I say hi when you go!

[@sergman84]

Coach is the absolute man. Legend right there!

[@Theo_snacks]

This style of content is next level brother 🔥🔥🔥

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks!

[@grahammonohan92]

Great family business! Down to earth real people making great BBQ. Fyi your sauce is the BOMB! I did ribs for Memorial Day and made your sauce. My family absolutely LOVED it! Cheers from Suwanee Ga!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Nice! I'm all about their sauce too!

[@tpcdelisle]

Al, what a great video. You just get better and better. Looks like a great family restaurant and team. I'm learning so much from your videos. By the way, you are looking sporty. Great look for you. 😇😋👍

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks a bunch for the love! Glad you liked the video ......and my sporty vibe!

[@mndirtrider4430]

That's a really great story and video!

[@markroach69]

This is one of your best videos yet. I'm definitely going to try them out. They're only 45 minutes away from me.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks! And definitely go check them out and tell them you heard about them on the show. I know they will appreciate knowing you saw the background and decided to stop in!

[@MikeBoardley]

I visited 2 weeks ago and Caleb and Shelby were amazing to me and my friends. The food is amazing and I HIGHLY recommend you pay them a visit.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

They really are special people!

[@KarnivoreKaren]

I've been waiting ❤ Excellent BBQ

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

This is it! I hope you've got a big screen you're watching on Karen!

[@joshtakacs9800]

If ever ever make it to Texas this will be my first stop! What a great place and family! Oh and have a beer with coach. 🍻

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Yes!

[@MrDocgriff]

Hey what was the Company name where they get their meat?

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Creekstone Farms. Great stuff.

[@robertkeenan9706]

Wow this was an awesome video. Adding Bar-A to my list of joints to go to

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks! Make sure you tell them I sent you, and don't forget to have a beer with Coach!

[@markmelton8676]

any help on how to convert that rib glaze to a smaller backyard cook portion? i would love to try it. this is a great video!! i would love to come eat at your restaurant!!

[@praetorxyn]

Great video. Will definitely have to try to talk my mother into baking those cookies. She's the baker in the family and the one with a stand mixer.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks! I haven’t tried making the cookies yet but I’m excited for them!

[@CooJoe05]

I love to cook and only wish I could have a setup like that but it makes me want to spend the money to invest in a good smoker and make my backyard the talk of the community.. Great Video...Keep it up

[@cliffmurrey3372]

Do you make your own garlic butter? Is there a temp, time or touch determined for length of cold smoking? Everything looks great, keep doing what you do!!!

[@MikeBrownBBQ]

That feista season all salt is my favorite, I put it on all my meats!! He mentioned Amir at red bird bbq, that place is legit I tried a month ago!! Great video Al, I enjoyed it!!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks Mike. I’ve been cooking with it the last few weeks (as you know since you watch the show lol) and it’s impressive. I need to go pay Amir a visit - you’re like the 5th person to tell me that!

[@medvetz7010]

Damn fine video. Great to see a family business with so much love and care for the food they make and for their surrounding community. Makes me miss Texas.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks man. When you go back go down and stop in.

[@medvetz7010]

@@BehindTheFoodTV guess need to do another family reunion in Texas🤣

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

@@medvetz7010 invite me!

[@williamnemeth9122]

Grew up going to school with Cooper in Montgomery, love to see it!

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

@@williamnemeth9122 was he always this cool?

[@williamnemeth9122]

@@BehindTheFoodTV everyone loved him. Heard madscientistbbq reference him and was thinking I know that place!

[@Jake_AC]

Ive never seen a place play with temp so much. Very interesting.

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Yeah he really uses it to his advantage. It requires harder work but Cooper's not afraid to work hard that's for sure!

[@vigriller]

Definitely need more vids like this!🔥

[@BehindTheFoodTV]

Thanks! That’s the plan!

[@TeachinTV]

What kind of backyard smoker would attempt to cook a 20 pound brisket? I understand the problem with attempting too much with too little resources---mainly room on your grate to allow the smoke and heat to circulate properly. How hard is it to smoke a 20 pound brisket? Easy, as long as you have a long, sharp knife to split that brisket into two. It's MUCH easier to work with two 10 pound briskets than a 20-pounder.