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The Ultimate Guide to Making Mouth-Watering Brisket Burnt Ends

May 19, 2023

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If you are a fan of barbecue, then you definitely know about brisket burnt ends. This delicacy is a true test of a pitmaster’s skills. They are crispy on the outside, and juicy and tender on the inside. Brisket burnt ends are perfect for a BBQ, game-day party, or any other occasion that calls for delicious and indulgent food. In this article, we will take you through the process of making perfect brisket burnt ends that will tantalize your taste buds.

What Are Brisket Burnt Ends?

Burnt ends are a popular dish that comes from Kansas City barbecue. They are made from the point end of a brisket, which is smoked for a long time to create a tender and juicy meat. After smoking, the brisket is cut into cubes and seasoned again, then smoked for even longer to create that mouth-watering crispy and caramelized exterior that we all love.

Ingredients you need to make Brisket Burnt Ends

To make the perfect brisket burnt ends, you will need the following ingredients:

1 whole packer brisket, point end only

Your favorite beef rub

1 cup of brown sugar

1 stick of unsalted butter

½ cup of Worcestershire sauce

BBQ sauce

Aluminum foil

Apple juice or beef broth

Toothpicks

Wood chunks or chips (preferably hickory, cherry, or pecan)

Preparation

Trim off any excess fat or silver skin from the brisket.

Apply your favorite beef rub of choice, covering the brisket thoroughly.

Smoke the brisket at 275°F for approximately six to eight hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.

Wrap the brisket in aluminum foil and pour a mixture of apple juice or beef broth inside.

Return the wrapped brisket to the smoker and cook for another hour or until the internal temperature of the brisket reaches 195°F.

Remove the brisket from the smoker and let it rest for at least 30 minutes.

Cut the brisket into cubes, approximately 1-2 inches in size.

Melt the butter in a pan and add the brown sugar and Worcestershire sauce. Stir and let the mixture boil for a minute.

Place the cubes in a pan or aluminum tray and pour the butter mixture over them.

Toss the cubes in the mixture until they are fully coated.

Place the tray with the cubes back into the smoker for one to two hours at 275°F until a crust forms on the cubes.

Remove the cubes from the smoker, and insert the toothpicks into each cube.

Dip the cubes in your favorite BBQ sauce, and let them rest for five minutes before serving.

Concluding Thoughts

Brisket burnt ends are a delicious and popular dish that requires a bit of time and effort to master. However, by following our recipe and instructions, you can make perfect burnt ends that your guests and family will love. Remember to choose the right wood, maintain a consistent temperature throughout the smoking process, and let the brisket rest before cutting it into cubes. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t perfect.

FAQs About Brisket Burnt Ends

How do I store leftover burnt ends?

You can store leftover burnt ends in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze them for later use.

Which wood should I use to smoke the brisket?

Hickory, cherry, and pecan are great options. You can also try using a blend of these woods to give the brisket a unique flavor.

What is the best BBQ sauce to use?

There are many types of BBQ sauce in the market today. Feel free to use your favorite or try out different brands to find the perfect sauce that suits your taste buds.