Burnt ends facts for kids
Burnt ends are super tasty pieces of meat. They come from the "point" part of a smoked brisket. A brisket is a large cut of beef. It has two main parts: the "flat" (which is leaner) and the "point" (which has more fat). Burnt ends are a special treat in barbecue cooking. They are a very traditional part of Kansas City-style barbecue.
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How Burnt Ends Are Made
Burnt ends get their name because they are cooked for a long time. This makes them extra tender and flavorful.
Starting with Brisket
Sometimes, the whole brisket is cooked together. Then, the fattier "point" part is cut off. This point is then cooked even longer. Other times, the point and flat are separated before cooking starts.
The Cooking Process
The point part of the brisket has more fat. This means it needs to cook longer than the leaner flat part. The longer cooking time helps the fat melt and makes the meat super soft. This extra cooking is why they are called "burnt ends." It gives them a nice, crispy outside, called "bark."
Sometimes, when the flat part of the brisket is ready, the point is put back in the smoker. This is for more cooking. Some cooks even add more seasoning to the point at this stage.
How to Enjoy Burnt Ends
Burnt ends are a delicious part of barbecue. They can be served in many ways.
Serving Styles
In Kansas City, burnt ends are often chopped into small pieces. They are usually served with barbecue sauce. The sauce can be on top or on the side. A good burnt end should have a little bit of crispy "bark" on at least one side.
What to Eat Them With
You can eat burnt ends all by themselves. They are often covered in barbecue sauce. They also make great sandwiches. People also add them to other dishes. Some popular choices include baked beans and French fries.
Who Made Them Famous?
A writer from Kansas City helped make burnt ends well-known.
Calvin Trillin's Story
Calvin Trillin is often given credit for making burnt ends popular. In 1972, he wrote an article about a restaurant called Arthur Bryant's in Kansas City. He wrote about how the restaurant would give away the "burned edges of the brisket" for free. He loved these pieces so much that he dreamed about them! He thought it was amazing that something so delicious was given away for free. His article helped many people learn about this special barbecue treat.
