Burnt ends are the charred ends of smoked brisket that have become some of the most revered morsels of BBQ. Originally considered scraps and discarded by pitmasters, burnt ends have now become one of the most popular dishes at BBQ joints in the last 40 years. The origins of burnt ends can be traced back to Kansas City, Missouri, specifically at Arthur Bryant's Barbecue.
How Did Burnt Ends Become Popular?
At Arthur Bryant's Barbecue, the burnt tips of the brisket were cut off and placed on the counter for customers to snack on while waiting in line. In 1972, Calvin Trillin wrote an article in Playboy magazine about these complimentary countertop charred bits, declaring them as the main course and sparking the curiosity of locals and BBQ aficionados alike. This article was a turning point for burnt ends, propelling them into culinary fame.
What Kind of Meat is Burnt Ends?
Burnt ends are the end trimmings from a smoked beef brisket. Brisket consists of two muscles, the flat and the deckle (or point). The point, which has a higher concentration of fat, is where the burnt ends come from. Brisket is seasoned and cooked low and slow in a smoker, and the crispy ends are cut off, giving them their name.
Why Are They Called Burnt Ends?
Contrary to the name, burnt ends are not actually burnt. The fat and seasonings on the brisket react when smoked, creating a flavorful bark or outer crust while keeping the meat inside moist. These crispy pieces of meat were originally trimmed off by pitmasters when slicing the brisket. At Arthur Bryant's Barbecue, they were placed on the counter for customers to enjoy, leading to the name burnt ends.
What Do Burnt Ends Taste Like?
Burnt ends are known for their smoky, juicy, slightly fatty, and crispy texture. They have a melt-in-your-mouth quality and should not be tough or chewy. A high-quality burnt end has a dark crust, visible smoke ring, and a layer of fat.
Why Are Burnt Ends So Good?
Burnt ends are highly sought after because of their unique and delicious flavor. The combination of time, temperature, the smoker, and the wood used all play a role in creating the magic of burnt ends. Each cubed piece has a crispy, charred exterior and a juicy, pink interior with a smoky aroma and taste. The fat on the brisket mixes with the smoke during the smoking process, resulting in a sweet, savory, and smoky flavor.
Burnt ends can be enjoyed as a standalone BBQ dish or used as a component in other BBQ sides like baked beans and stews. Their versatility allows for endless culinary creations. Here are a few ideas on what to do with burnt ends:
Burnt End Sandwich
One of the most popular ways to enjoy burnt ends is by making a sandwich. Simply place the burnt ends between two slices of bread or a bun, add your favorite BBQ sauce, and maybe some coleslaw for added crunch. The combination of the smoky, tender meat with the tangy sauce and crispy slaw creates a mouthwatering sandwich.
Burnt End Tacos
Another delicious option is to use burnt ends as a filling for tacos. Warm up some tortillas, add the burnt ends, and top them off with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, guacamole, and cilantro. The smoky flavor of the burnt ends pairs perfectly with the freshness of the toppings, creating a flavor explosion in every bite.
Burnt End Mac and Cheese
For a comforting and indulgent dish, add burnt ends to your favorite mac and cheese recipe. The smoky meat adds a depth of flavor to the creamy cheese sauce, creating a mouthwatering combination. Top it off with some breadcrumbs for added crunch and bake it until golden and bubbly.
Burnt End Pizza
For a unique twist on pizza, use burnt ends as a topping. Spread some BBQ sauce on your pizza dough, add shredded cheese, and then sprinkle the burnt ends on top. Bake it until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted, and you'll have a BBQ-inspired pizza that will impress your taste buds.
Burnt End Chili
Add some smoky flavor to your chili by incorporating burnt ends. Simply add them to your favorite chili recipe during the cooking process, and let the flavors meld together. The rich and savory taste of the burnt ends will take your chili to the next level.
Burnt End Sliders
If you're hosting a party or a BBQ gathering, serve burnt end sliders as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. Place a few pieces of burnt ends on small buns or rolls, add some BBQ sauce, and maybe some pickles or onions for added flavor. These bite-sized delights will disappear quickly!
Burnt End Nachos
Create a BBQ twist on classic nachos by using burnt ends as a topping. Layer tortilla chips with shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, jalapenos, and the burnt ends. Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then top with your favorite nacho toppings like sour cream and guacamole. The combination of the smoky meat with the crunchy chips and creamy toppings is irresistible.
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- Q: Can I make burnt ends at home?
- A: Yes, you can make burnt ends at home by smoking a beef brisket and cutting off the crispy ends. There are many recipes and techniques available online to help you achieve the perfect burnt ends.
- Q: Can I use a different type of meat for burnt ends?
- A: While traditional burnt ends come from the end of a beef brisket, some pitmasters use other beef parts or even pork to create their own version of burnt ends.
- Q: Where can I buy brisket burnt ends?
- A: Brisket burnt ends can be found on BBQ restaurant menus in Kansas City, the birthplace of burnt ends. They are also available for purchase online through platforms like Goldbelly, which ships BBQ nationwide.
In conclusion, burnt ends are a beloved BBQ delicacy that originated in Kansas City and have gained popularity over the years. Their unique flavor and versatility make them a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts. Whether enjoyed as a sandwich, taco filling, or incorporated into other dishes like mac and cheese or chili, burnt ends are sure to satisfy your BBQ cravings. So, fire up the smoker or visit your favorite BBQ joint to experience the magic of burnt ends for yourself.
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