Imagine sinking your teeth into a sandwich so incredibly delicious that it transforms an ordinary meal into a legendary culinary experience. The Burnt Ends Sandwich with Pickled Red Onions isn't just a recipe—it's a flavor-packed journey through the heart of American barbecue tradition. Tender, caramelized brisket cubes glazed in rich BBQ sauce, nestled between toasted buns and topped with tangy pickled onions, this sandwich promises to be the star of your next cookout or comfort food craving.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs brisket
- 1 cup BBQ rub
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 sandwich buns
- 1 cup pickled red onions
Instructions
- Prepare the brisket by trimming excess fat, leaving about 1/4 inch of fat cap on the meat surface.
- Generously coat the entire brisket with BBQ rub, massaging the spices into the meat thoroughly, ensuring complete coverage.
- Preheat smoker or oven to 250°F (121°C), using indirect heat method for consistent temperature.
- Place brisket fat side up on the cooking grate, and smoke/cook for approximately 5-6 hours until internal temperature reaches 195-203°F (90-95°C).
- Remove brisket from heat, wrap in butcher paper or aluminum foil, and let rest for 30-45 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Cut brisket into cubes, approximately 1-inch in size, focusing on the point/fatty end of the meat.
- Toss burnt end cubes in BBQ sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Return sauced cubes to smoker/oven at 275°F (135°C) for additional 30-45 minutes until edges become crispy and caramelized.
- Toast sandwich buns lightly, creating a crisp surface to hold the rich burnt ends.
- Pile saucy burnt end cubes generously onto bottom bun, top with pickled red onions.
- Close sandwich with top bun, slice diagonally, and serve immediately while warm.
Tips
- Choose a high-quality brisket with good marbling for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure precise cooking temperatures.
- Allow ample resting time after initial cooking to redistribute meat juices.
- Don't rush the caramelization process—crispy edges are key to authentic burnt ends.
- Homemade pickled red onions can elevate the sandwich's flavor profile.
- If you don't have a smoker, a low-temperature oven works perfectly fine.
- Experiment with different BBQ sauce styles to customize your sandwich's taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 650kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 140mg
