When it comes to comfort food, few things can compete with a brisket sandwich. Juicy, tender brisket piled high on a soft bun, slathered in a rich, tangy BBQ sauce—this is the kind of sandwich that satisfies both your hunger and your soul. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to a hearty meal, this brisket sandwich recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. In this article, I’ll guide you through the steps to make the perfect brisket sandwich, complete with a homemade BBQ sauce that’s easy to whip up and packed with flavor.
Why Brisket Sandwiches are a Must-Try
A brisket sandwich is the epitome of comfort food, combining tender meat with the bold flavors of BBQ sauce. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity—when you start with quality ingredients and take the time to cook the brisket low and slow, the result is nothing short of spectacular. The homemade BBQ sauce adds a personal touch that elevates the sandwich to new heights, giving you a dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual lunches to weekend gatherings.
Ingredients for Brisket Sandwich
To make a mouthwatering brisket sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Brisket Ingredients:
- 5 lbs (2.3 kg) beef brisket: Look for a brisket with a good amount of marbling for the best flavor.
- 2 tbsp (30g) kosher salt
- 1 tbsp (15g) black pepper
- 1 tbsp (15g) smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp (15g) garlic powder
- 1 tbsp (15g) onion powder
- 2 tsp (10g) ground cumin
- 2 tsp (10g) ground mustard
- 2 cups (480ml) beef broth: This helps keep the brisket moist during cooking.
Homemade BBQ Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup (240ml) ketchup
- 1/2 cup (120ml) apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) molasses
- 1/4 cup (60g) brown sugar
- 2 tbsp (30ml) Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp (15ml) Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp (2.5g) garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp (2.5g) onion powder
- 1/4 tsp (1.25g) cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling the Sandwiches:
- 8 sandwich buns: Soft, sturdy buns like brioche or kaiser rolls work best.
- Coleslaw (optional): Adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to the rich brisket.
- Pickles (optional): For an extra punch of flavor and acidity.
Preparing the Brisket
Making the perfect brisket sandwich starts with preparing the brisket itself. Here’s how to do it:
1. Selecting the Brisket
Choosing the right brisket is crucial for this recipe. Look for a brisket with good marbling—the streaks of fat running through the meat. This fat will render down during cooking, keeping the brisket moist and flavorful. A 5-pound brisket is a good size for making sandwiches, yielding enough meat to serve several people.
2. Seasoning the Brisket
Begin by mixing the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, and ground mustard in a small bowl. This dry rub will infuse the brisket with flavor as it cooks.
Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, making sure to cover every inch. Let the brisket sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
3. Cooking the Brisket
There are several ways to cook brisket, but for this recipe, I recommend the low-and-slow method in the oven or a smoker.
- In the Oven: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the brisket in a large roasting pan, fat side up. Pour the beef broth into the bottom of the pan. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and cook for about 6-8 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender.
- In a Smoker: If you have a smoker, this is an excellent way to cook brisket. Set the smoker to 225°F (107°C) and cook the brisket for about 10-12 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F (90°C). The smoke adds an extra layer of flavor that’s hard to beat.
Once the brisket is done, remove it from the oven or smoker and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.
Making the Homemade BBQ Sauce
While the brisket is cooking, you can prepare the homemade BBQ sauce. This sauce is tangy, slightly sweet, and has just the right amount of kick to complement the rich, smoky flavor of the brisket.
1. Combine the Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, combine the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, molasses, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir the ingredients together until well combined.
2. Cook the Sauce
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly and develop a rich, deep flavor.
Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you can add a bit more brown sugar or molasses. For more tang, add a splash of apple cider vinegar.
3. Cool and Store
Once the sauce is done, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. You can use the sauce immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. This BBQ sauce is versatile and works well with other meats like ribs or chicken, so it’s worth having on hand.
Assembling the Brisket Sandwich
Now that your brisket is cooked and your BBQ sauce is ready, it’s time to assemble the brisket sandwiches. Here’s how to do it:
1. Toast the Buns
Toasting the sandwich buns adds a nice texture and helps prevent them from getting soggy. You can toast the buns in a toaster, on a grill, or in a skillet with a little butter. Toast them until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy.
2. Slice the Brisket
Using a sharp knife, slice the brisket against the grain into thin slices. Slicing against the grain ensures that each bite is tender and easy to chew.
3. Assemble the Sandwich
Start by spreading a generous amount of the homemade BBQ sauce on both sides of the toasted buns. Pile the sliced brisket high on the bottom half of each bun. If you like, you can add a scoop of coleslaw or a few slices of pickle on top of the brisket for extra flavor and crunch.
Place the top half of the bun on the sandwich, pressing down slightly to help everything hold together. Repeat with the remaining buns and brisket slices.
Serving Suggestions
Brisket sandwiches are hearty and satisfying on their own, but they’re even better when paired with the right sides. Here are some serving suggestions to complete your meal:
- Coleslaw: A classic side for brisket sandwiches, coleslaw adds a crunchy, tangy contrast to the rich meat. You can make a traditional cabbage coleslaw or try something different like a vinegar-based slaw with apple and fennel.
- Pickles: Pickles add a burst of acidity that cuts through the richness of the brisket. Dill pickles are a popular choice, but you can also try bread and butter pickles for a sweeter flavor.
- Baked Beans: Baked beans are a staple side dish for BBQ, with their sweet and smoky flavor pairing perfectly with brisket sandwiches.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad is another great option. The cool, creamy texture complements the warm, smoky brisket.
- Cornbread: Cornbread adds a touch of sweetness and a soft, crumbly texture that’s perfect alongside a brisket sandwich.
For more BBQ inspiration, check out this Smoked BBQ Chicken Thighs – The Ultimate Guide for another delicious, smoky recipe that’s sure to be a hit.
Why Brisket Sandwiches are Perfect for Any Occasion
One of the best things about brisket sandwiches is their versatility. They’re perfect for casual lunches, game day gatherings, or even as a main course at a BBQ party. The combination of tender, smoky brisket and tangy BBQ sauce is a crowd-pleaser, and you can easily customize the sandwich to suit your taste.
Whether you’re serving them with traditional BBQ sides or something a little different, brisket sandwiches are always a hit. They’re easy to make, especially if you cook the brisket ahead of time, and they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Plus, they’re hearty enough to satisfy even the biggest appetites.
Conclusion
In just a few steps, you can create a Brisket Sandwich that’s both easy and delicious. With a perfectly cooked brisket and a homemade BBQ sauce, this sandwich is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a big backyard BBQ, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to impress.
FAQs
- Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce instead of making my own?
- Yes, you can use store-bought BBQ sauce, but making your own allows you to control the flavors and sweetness to your liking.
- How do I store leftover brisket?
- Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying it out.
- Can I freeze cooked brisket?
- Yes, cooked brisket freezes well. Wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for up to 3 months.
- What type of buns work best for brisket sandwiches?
- Soft, sturdy buns like brioche or kaiser rolls work best as they hold up well to the juicy brisket and sauce.
- Can I make brisket sandwiches ahead of time?
- You can prepare the brisket and BBQ sauce ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep the buns from getting soggy.
- What other toppings can I add to my brisket sandwich?
- In addition to coleslaw and pickles, you can add sautéed onions, jalapeños, or cheese for extra flavor.
- Is there a vegetarian alternative to brisket for sandwiches?
- For a vegetarian option, try using smoked tofu or portobello mushrooms as a substitute for the brisket.
- How can I make my brisket spicier?
- To add more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the BBQ sauce or add sliced jalapeños to the sandwich.