What are Brisket Burnt Ends?
Burnt ends. The name itself doesn’t sound appetizing, but to anyone who has had the pleasure of biting into one of these beautiful brisket bites, it conjures up visions of a savory, rich BBQ delicacy.
Learn more about burnt ends, and more importantly, how to make them yourself in the article below.
Brisket Burnt Ends
While there is much debate as to where brisket burnt ends originated, there is no denying they are perfect, pillowy bites of brisket heaven. Rumored to have found their beginnings in Kansas City, one would be hard-pressed to find a barbecue joint in KC that doesn’t have burnt ends on the menu.
What is a burnt end? Well, that is less debatable. Burnt ends are the extremely flavorful bite-sized pieces cut from the point/deckle of a smoked brisket. Considered a delicacy to BBQ connoisseurs, they often considered the perfect brisket bite.
Burnt ends can be cut from a brisket point, that has been separated from the flat prior to smoking, or can be removed after smoking a whole brisket by cubing the point when fully cooked. Due to the higher internal fat (marbling) of a brisket point, it often takes longer to cook and render out that delicious marbling. Allowing the point to cook a little further not only breaks down the internal fats, but it also adds a layer of “bark” or char to the point, hence the name “burnt” ends.
Traditional burnt ends must have an ample amount of bark on at least one side, hence the term “burnt.” They can be served with or without sauce and are incredibly versatile when planning a menu. From sandwiches and nachos, to baked beans and chili, there are many recipes burnt ends make even better. For the purists, there is nothing wrong with cubing the point immediately upon cooking and sneaking that very first bite before anyone else shows up.
If you’ve never tried them, you are most definitely missing out, and we are here to help with a brisket burnt ends recipe. Follow the steps below to make your very own Brisket Burnt Ends. You’ll be impressing your friends and family in no time, that is if you decide to share!
1. Smoke the Brisket
Follow our 'How to Smoke a Brisket' video for our step-by-step process on how to smoke a backyard brisket with 15-Time World Champion Pitmaster Darren Warth.
2. Remove the Point
Once the brisket has rested, remove the point from the flat. Remove any excess fat that is left between the point and flat.
3. Cube the Point
With a sharp slicing knife, cut the point into bite-sized cubes.
4. Non-Sauced Burnt Ends
If you don’t want to add sauce, add a bit more seasoning to the burnt ends. Toss and serve.
5. Sauced Burnt Ends
After the point has been cut into bite-sized cubes, add a bit more seasoning, toss with sauce to cover all sides, and serve. If you need a brisket burnt ends rub recipe, combine equal parts salt and pepper for a simple, flavorful mix. You can also use SRF Brisket Rub for a fast, delicious solution.
6. Sticky Sauced Burnt Ends
After the point has been cut into bite-sized cubes and seasoning and sauce have been added, place burnt ends in a sheet pan covered in foil and return to smoker at 250°F. Cook for an additional 30 to 60 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. When sauce is set to desired level of tackiness, remove from the smoker, stir and serve.
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