Prep & Season the Brisket:
Trim excess fat, leaving about a 1/4-inch fat cap for moisture.
Coat the brisket with mustard or hot sauce as a binder.
Generously season with a heavy pepper rub, ensuring an even coating.
Let it sit in the fridge for a few hours to absorb the flavors.
Smoke the Brisket:
Preheat your smoker to 220°F.
Place the brisket inside with a drip pan underneath to catch the juices.
Smoke for about 10 hours, or until it reaches an internal temp of 165-170°F.
Rest the Brisket:
Wrap the brisket in foil or butcher paper and let it rest in a cooler for 2 hours to redistribute its juices.
Sauté the Vegetables:
While the brisket is resting, heat a griddle over medium heat and add butter.
Sauté onions and jalapeños until soft and caramelized, seasoning with salt & pepper. Keep warm.
Slice the Brisket:
Unwrap the brisket and slice thinly against the grain.
Crisp the Brisket on the Griddle:
Heat the griddle to medium-high and add sliced brisket.
Cook until edges are crispy.
Combine Everything:
Mix brisket with caramelized onions, jalapeños, and BBQ sauce. Sprinkle cheese and stir until melted.
Toast the Hoagie Buns:
Toast buns on the griddle until golden and crisp.
Assemble & Serve:
Fill the toasted buns with the cheesy brisket mixture. Serve hot.