If there’s one thing you should know about us here at Popsmith, it’s that we love experimenting with popcorn. Don’t get us wrong. We’re as obsessed with movie theater buttery popcorn and kettle corn as you are (that’s why we made our kits!), but we also enjoy pushing the boundaries of the snack.
Today, we’re sharing a unique recipe from Popsmith co-founder Dave, inspired by brisket. It might have more steps than the typical popcorn recipes you see on our blog, but we promise all the effort pays off.
Now follow along as we share the steps to making rich, smoky beef brisket popcorn:
Beef Brisket Popcorn Ingredients
For this recipe, we encourage you to season to taste — measure with your heart and adjust to your preference!
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½ tablespoon kernels
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3 tablespoons beef tallow
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Popsmith buttery salt, to taste (just use the seasoning from your Oh Sooo Buttery Popcorn)
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Hard herb-packed cheese (similar to parmesan)
Equipment You’ll Need for Beef Brisket Popcorn
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Popsmith Popper
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Your stove
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Grill or smoker
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Grill basket
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Spray bottle
Beef Brisket Popcorn Directions
Step 1: Preheat
Set your stove to medium heat and let the Popper preheat for 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 2: Add Beef Tallow
Place beef tallow into the pot and allow it to melt.
Step 3: Toss Kernels

Drop 3 kernels into the Popper. When the first kernel pops, pour the rest.
Step 4: Pour Seasoning
Wait a few seconds after the kernels start popping, then pour the brisket rub and buttery salt into the Popsmith and cover the lid.
GOOD TO KNOW: The brisket rub has ingredients like garlic, onion, and paprika that can burn if added to the popcorn too early.
Step 5: Turn

Turn the Popsmith’s crank clockwise while the kernels pop to prevent burning.
Step 6: Remove
When popping slows to 1-2 seconds between pops, take the Popper off the heat and pour it into a bowl.
Step 7: Spray the Popcorn
Put about a tablespoon of Tuff Truffle Oil and W sauce into a spray bottle and give it a good shake to mix them. Then spray a light layer over your popcorn.
Step 8: Smoke the Popcorn
Pour your popcorn into a grill basket, put it in your grill, and let it smoke at 180°F for 20 minutes with the lid closed.
GOOD TO KNOW: The goal isn’t to cook the popcorn on the grill. It’s to give it a smoky flavor and make it extra crunchy.
Step 9: Final Seasoning
Remove the popcorn from the smoker and pour it back into the bowl. Grate hard cheese over the top, sprinkle more brisket rub, and finish with a drizzle of Frank’s Hot Dill Pickle sauce.
Step 10: Serve

Your beef tallow popcorn is now ready. Enjoy!
More Beef Tallow Popcorn Tips
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If you just so happen to be making actual brisket, save some of the marinade to add to your truffle oil spray for a more flavor-packed snack.
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Dave used Traeger’s Signature Blend Wood Pellets for his smoke, but you can use whatever you have at home.
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Have leftover popcorn? Store it in an airtight container and eat it within 5 days (if you don’t finish all of it by then).
Beef Up Your Snacking Game
The next time you serve beef brisket, make this popcorn to pair it with. It’s just as rich and flavorful as the real deal — exactly the kind of side you want to serve for your backyard party or potluck.
Do you have anything you want us to turn into popcorn? We’d love to hear your wild and adventurous ideas! Leave a comment below or send us an email.