Introduction
Burnt ends with bourbon sauce combine the rich flavors of smoked brisket with a sweet and tangy bourbon-infused sauce, creating a dish that is truly unforgettable. This recipe caters to barbecue enthusiasts and those looking for a standout dish for gatherings or weekend feasts. Perfectly cooked, these burnt ends are a delightful treat that showcase the magic of slow-cooked meat paired with a luxurious sauce.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 pound beef brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 tablespoon of kosher salt
– 1 tablespoon of black pepper
– 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1/2 cup of bourbon
– 1/2 cup of ketchup
– 1/4 cup of brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard
– Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
Prep Time
Preparation time for this dish is approximately 30 minutes. This includes cutting the brisket into cubes and mixing the spices and sauce ingredients to ensure everything is well-combined before cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time for the burnt ends is around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the desired tenderness. When combined with the prep time, the total time for this recipe is about 2.5 to 3.5 hours. This recipe yields approximately 4 servings, making it an ideal choice for small gatherings or family dinners.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Brisket
Trim the brisket of excess fat, leaving a thin layer for flavor and moisture. Cut the brisket into cubes approximately 1-1.5 inches in size.
Season the Brisket Cubes
Generously season the brisket cubes with salt and pepper. You can use a simple rub or your favorite barbecue seasoning for additional flavor. Let the seasoned brisket sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
Preheat the Smoker
Preheat your smoker to 225°F. Use a combination of hickory and cherry wood chips for optimal flavor.
Smoke the Brisket Cubes
Place the brisket cubes in the smoker and let them cook for about 3 hours. Ensure they are spaced out for even smoke coverage.
Prepare the Bourbon Sauce
In a saucepan, combine bourbon, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and ground mustard. Bring this mixture to a simmer and reduce it for about 15 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Glaze the Burnt Ends
After 3 hours of smoking, remove the brisket cubes from the smoker. Place them in a disposable aluminum pan and pour the bourbon sauce over the top, ensuring all pieces are well-coated.
Finish Cooking
Cover the aluminum pan tightly with foil and return it to the smoker for an additional 2 hours. This step allows the burnt ends to become tender and absorb the sauce.
Caramelize the Sauce
After 2 hours, remove the foil and let the burnt ends cook for another 30 minutes to 1 hour. This will caramelize the sauce and create a sticky, flavorful coating.
Serve
Once cooked, remove the burnt ends from the smoker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. You can drizzle more sauce on top if desired.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
These burnt ends are best served with classic barbecue sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.
Storage
Leftover burnt ends can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a smoker, you can achieve similar results using a slow cooker or an oven set to low heat, though the smoky flavor will be less pronounced.
Experiment with Flavors
Feel free to customize the bourbon sauce by adding additional spices or ingredients such as hot sauce for heat, or honey for extra sweetness.
