Are you a barbecue enthusiast looking to take your skills to the next level? One dish that is sure to impress your friends and family is burnt ends. These flavorful and tender pieces of meat are a BBQ staple that originated in Kansas City and have gained popularity across the country.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 lbs of brisket point
- Barbecue rub of your choice
- Barbecue sauce
- Wood chips for smoking
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brisket Point:
Start by trimming any excess fat from the brisket point. Rub the barbecue rub generously all over the brisket, making sure to coat it evenly.
2. Smoke the Brisket:
Set up your smoker according to the manufacturer’s instructions and preheat it to 225-250°F. Add wood chips to the smoker for extra flavor. Place the brisket on the grill and smoke it for 4-6 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
3. Cube the Brisket:
Remove the brisket from the smoker and let it rest for about 15 minutes. Cut the brisket into 1-inch cubes, making sure to keep them uniform in size.
4. Double Smoke:
Preheat your smoker to 275°F. Place the cubed brisket back on the grill and smoke for an additional 1-2 hours, or until they develop a dark bark on the outside.
5. Sauce the Burnt Ends:
Remove the burnt ends from the smoker and place them in a disposable aluminum pan. Pour barbecue sauce over the burnt ends and toss them to coat evenly.
6. Finish and Serve:
Return the pan to the smoker for another 30 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize. Once done, remove the burnt ends and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Tips for Making Perfect Burnt Ends:
- Use the Brisket Point: The point has more marbling than the flat, making it perfect for burnt ends.
- Low and Slow: Smoking the brisket low and slow allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.
- Double Smoke: The second round of smoking helps create a crispy bark on the outside of the burnt ends.
- Quality Wood: Use high-quality wood chips for smoking, such as hickory or oak, for the best flavor.
- Rest the Meat: Allowing the brisket to rest before cubing ensures the juices redistribute and the meat stays moist.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try different barbecue sauces to find the perfect flavor profile for your burnt ends.
Conclusion:
Now that you know how to make burnt ends, it’s time to fire up the smoker and impress your guests with this delicious BBQ dish. Follow these steps, use quality ingredients, and don’t be afraid to experiment to find your perfect blend of flavors. Enjoy the process, and most importantly, enjoy the mouthwatering results!
