Burnt ends. The name itself conjures images of smoky, flavorful, and intensely delicious morsels of BBQ perfection. These aren’t just scraps; they’re the prized point of a brisket, slow-cooked to achieve a bark that’s almost caramelized and an interior that melts in your mouth. But what completes this BBQ experience? What are the perfect accompaniments to elevate burnt ends from a tasty snack to a truly unforgettable meal? Let’s dive into a comprehensive guide on what to eat with burnt ends, exploring classic pairings, creative sides, and even drink suggestions to enhance your smoky feast.
The Classic BBQ Companions
Burnt ends, originating from Kansas City, have a strong connection to traditional BBQ sides. These sides are designed to complement the rich, smoky flavor of the meat and offer a balanced, satisfying meal.
Coleslaw: A Creamy Counterpoint
Coleslaw is a staple at any BBQ gathering, and it’s a particularly excellent choice with burnt ends. The cool, creamy, and slightly tangy nature of coleslaw cuts through the richness of the meat, providing a refreshing contrast. There are many variations of coleslaw, from mayonnaise-based to vinegar-based, each offering a slightly different flavor profile. A vinegar-based coleslaw, with its brighter acidity, is especially effective at balancing the richness of burnt ends.
Consider experimenting with different coleslaw recipes to find your perfect match. Some include pineapple, cranberries, or even a touch of jalapeno for an extra kick.
Potato Salad: A Hearty Classic
Another cornerstone of BBQ, potato salad offers a comforting and familiar flavor that pairs well with burnt ends. Like coleslaw, potato salad comes in numerous variations. Some are creamy and dense, while others are lighter and more tangy. A mustard-based potato salad can provide a zesty counterpoint to the smoky sweetness of the burnt ends.
Think about adding some chopped celery, onion, or even crispy bacon to your potato salad for added texture and flavor.
Baked Beans: Sweet and Savory Harmony
Baked beans, often cooked with molasses, brown sugar, and bacon, offer a sweet and savory complement to burnt ends. The sweetness of the beans balances the smoky, savory flavors of the meat, creating a harmonious pairing.
Many BBQ joints have their own secret baked bean recipes, often incorporating spices, different types of beans, and even chunks of smoked meat.
Cornbread: A Sweet and Savory Balance
Cornbread is a classic Southern side that’s perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from burnt ends. Its slightly sweet and crumbly texture complements the richness of the meat.
Cornbread can be made in a variety of ways, from simple skillet cornbread to more elaborate versions with additions like jalapenos, cheese, or even creamed corn.
Beyond the Basics: Exploring Creative Sides
While the classic sides are always a good choice, there’s no reason to limit yourself. Burnt ends are versatile enough to pair well with a variety of other dishes. Let’s explore some more creative options.
Mac and Cheese: Comfort Food Elevated
Mac and cheese is a comforting and crowd-pleasing side that adds a creamy, cheesy richness to the meal. The addition of burnt ends to mac and cheese is a popular trend, but serving it as a side provides a more balanced approach.
Experiment with different cheeses, such as Gruyere, smoked Gouda, or sharp cheddar, to elevate your mac and cheese game. You can also add toppings like breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions for added texture.
Grilled Vegetables: A Healthy Balance
For a lighter and healthier option, consider serving grilled vegetables alongside your burnt ends. Grilled vegetables offer a smoky, slightly charred flavor that complements the meat without being overly heavy.
Some excellent choices for grilling include bell peppers, zucchini, onions, asparagus, and corn on the cob. A simple marinade of olive oil, herbs, and spices can enhance the flavor of the vegetables.
Pickled Vegetables: A Tangy Contrast
Pickled vegetables, such as pickled onions, cucumbers, or carrots, offer a tangy and acidic contrast to the richness of burnt ends. The acidity cuts through the fat and provides a refreshing palate cleanser.
Consider making your own pickled vegetables at home for a truly unique and flavorful addition to your BBQ.
Watermelon Salad: A Refreshing Summer Choice
For a refreshing and summery side, watermelon salad is an excellent choice. The sweetness of the watermelon, combined with the salty and savory flavors of burnt ends, creates a surprisingly delicious combination.
Add some feta cheese, mint, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze to your watermelon salad for an extra layer of flavor.
Building the Perfect Burnt Ends Plate
The key to a successful burnt ends meal is balance. You want to choose sides that complement the richness of the meat without overwhelming it. Consider the following factors when building your plate:
Texture: A Mix of Soft and Crunchy
Aim for a variety of textures. The tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture of burnt ends is best balanced by sides with some crunch, such as coleslaw with a bit of cabbage stem or cornbread with a slightly crispy edge.
Flavor: Sweet, Savory, and Acidic Harmony
Strive for a balance of sweet, savory, and acidic flavors. The smoky, savory flavor of burnt ends is complemented by sweet sides like baked beans or cornbread, as well as acidic sides like coleslaw or pickled vegetables.
Temperature: Hot and Cold Contrast
A contrast in temperature can also enhance the dining experience. Serve warm burnt ends with cool sides like coleslaw or potato salad for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Drinks to Complement Burnt Ends
No BBQ is complete without the perfect beverage. The right drink can enhance the flavors of the food and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the meat.
Beer: Hoppy, Malty, and Refreshing Choices
Beer is a classic BBQ pairing. Choose a beer that complements the smoky and savory flavors of burnt ends.
- IPA: A hoppy IPA can cut through the richness of the meat and provide a refreshing bitterness.
- Amber Ale: An amber ale offers a malty sweetness that complements the smoky flavors.
- Lager: A crisp lager is a light and refreshing choice that won’t overpower the flavor of the burnt ends.
Wine: Bold Reds and Refreshing Whites
Wine can also be a great choice with burnt ends, depending on the specific flavors and sides you are serving.
- Zinfandel: A bold Zinfandel with its fruity and spicy notes can stand up to the rich flavors of burnt ends.
- Pinot Noir: A lighter-bodied Pinot Noir can provide a more subtle complement to the meat.
- Riesling: A slightly sweet Riesling can provide a refreshing contrast to the smoky and savory flavors.
Cocktails: Smoky and Refreshing Combinations
For a more adventurous choice, consider a cocktail that complements the flavors of burnt ends.
- Old Fashioned: The classic Old Fashioned, with its combination of bourbon, sugar, bitters, and orange peel, is a great match for the smoky flavors.
- Margarita: A refreshing margarita can cut through the richness of the meat and provide a tangy counterpoint.
- Smoky Mezcal Cocktail: A cocktail featuring mezcal, with its inherent smoky notes, will amplify the smoky flavor of the burnt ends.
Non-Alcoholic Options: Refreshing Choices for Everyone
Don’t forget the non-alcoholic options for those who prefer not to drink alcohol.
- Iced Tea: A classic Southern choice, iced tea provides a refreshing and slightly tannic complement to the meal.
- Lemonade: A sweet and tart lemonade can cut through the richness of the meat and provide a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Sparkling Water with Citrus: Sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime is a light and refreshing choice that won’t overpower the flavor of the burnt ends.
The Art of Sauce Pairing
Burnt ends, with their rich, smoky flavor, can be further enhanced by the right sauce. While many enjoy them without any sauce at all, a well-chosen sauce can elevate the experience to another level.
Kansas City Style BBQ Sauce: A Natural Fit
Since burnt ends originated in Kansas City, it’s no surprise that Kansas City-style BBQ sauce is a popular choice. This sauce is typically thick, sweet, and tangy, with a blend of tomato, molasses, vinegar, and spices. The sweetness of the sauce complements the smoky flavor of the burnt ends, while the tanginess cuts through the richness.
Mustard-Based BBQ Sauce: A Tangy Twist
For a different flavor profile, consider a mustard-based BBQ sauce. This sauce is typically tangy and slightly spicy, with a base of yellow mustard, vinegar, and spices. The tanginess of the mustard cuts through the fat of the burnt ends, providing a refreshing counterpoint.
Vinegar-Based BBQ Sauce: A Southern Classic
Vinegar-based BBQ sauce, common in the Carolinas, is a thin, tangy sauce made with vinegar, spices, and sometimes a touch of sugar. The acidity of the vinegar helps to balance the richness of the burnt ends.
White BBQ Sauce: An Alabama Specialty
White BBQ sauce, a specialty of Alabama, is a mayonnaise-based sauce with vinegar, pepper, and other spices. The creamy and tangy sauce provides a unique contrast to the smoky flavor of the burnt ends.
Serving Suggestions and Presentation
Presentation matters. Even the most delicious burnt ends can be made even more appealing with thoughtful serving suggestions.
Family-Style Platter: A Gathering of Flavors
Serve your burnt ends and sides on a large platter, family-style. This encourages sharing and creates a communal dining experience. Arrange the burnt ends in the center of the platter, surrounded by the sides.
Individual Plates: A Carefully Curated Experience
For a more formal setting, consider serving individual plates. Carefully arrange the burnt ends and sides on each plate, ensuring a balanced and visually appealing presentation.
Burnt Ends Sliders: A Fun and Casual Option
For a casual gathering, consider serving burnt ends sliders. Pile the burnt ends on slider buns and top with your favorite BBQ sauce and coleslaw.
Conclusion: Crafting Your Perfect Burnt Ends Meal
Burnt ends are a culinary treasure, offering a complex and satisfying flavor experience. By carefully selecting the right sides, drinks, and sauces, you can elevate your burnt ends meal from delicious to unforgettable. Whether you prefer classic BBQ companions or more creative pairings, the key is to strive for balance and harmony in flavor, texture, and temperature. So, gather your friends and family, fire up the smoker, and embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the smoky, succulent, and utterly irresistible joy of burnt ends. The possibilities are endless, so experiment, have fun, and discover your own perfect burnt ends pairing.
What are some classic side dishes that pair well with burnt ends?
Classic side dishes that complement the rich and smoky flavor of burnt ends often include coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans. Coleslaw offers a refreshing and crunchy contrast to the tenderness of the burnt ends, while potato salad provides a creamy and comforting element. Baked beans, especially those with a sweet and smoky profile, enhance the overall barbecue experience.
Another great choice is macaroni and cheese, whose creamy texture and mild flavor cut through the richness of the burnt ends. Cornbread, with its slightly sweet and crumbly texture, also makes an excellent accompaniment. Ultimately, the best side dishes are those that provide a balance to the intense flavors of the burnt ends.
What kind of vegetables go well with burnt ends?
Vegetables that provide a contrasting freshness and slight acidity often work well with the richness of burnt ends. Grilled asparagus, with its slightly smoky flavor, complements the burnt ends without overpowering them. Corn on the cob, especially when grilled and brushed with butter, also provides a sweet and satisfying counterpoint.
Consider also serving a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette. The acidity in the vinaigrette will help cut through the fat of the burnt ends. Alternatively, a simple cucumber and tomato salad can offer a refreshing and light complement to the hearty meat.
Are there any unique or unexpected pairings for burnt ends?
For a unique and unexpected pairing, consider serving burnt ends with a fruit salsa. The sweetness of the fruit, combined with the slight heat from the salsa, creates a delightful contrast to the savory and smoky burnt ends. Mango salsa or pineapple salsa are particularly good choices.
Another interesting option is to pair burnt ends with creamy polenta. The smooth and comforting texture of the polenta complements the crispy and flavorful burnt ends, while the mild flavor of the polenta allows the burnt ends to truly shine. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs can further enhance the dish.
What kind of sauces or condiments enhance the flavor of burnt ends?
While burnt ends are often flavorful enough on their own, certain sauces and condiments can enhance their flavor profile. A classic barbecue sauce, particularly one with a tangy or slightly sweet flavor, is a natural pairing. The sauce adds moisture and depth of flavor to the burnt ends.
Consider also serving a vinegar-based sauce, which cuts through the richness of the meat and adds a refreshing tang. Alternatively, a horseradish cream sauce provides a spicy and creamy element that complements the smoky flavor. Experimenting with different sauces allows you to customize the flavor to your liking.
Can burnt ends be incorporated into other dishes, and if so, what are some good options?
Burnt ends are incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into a wide variety of dishes. They make a fantastic addition to tacos or quesadillas, adding a smoky and savory element. They can also be used as a topping for nachos, providing a hearty and flavorful alternative to ground beef.
Consider adding burnt ends to mac and cheese for a decadent and delicious twist on a classic comfort food. They also make a great addition to salads, providing protein and flavor. Finely diced burnt ends can even be mixed into cornbread batter for a unique and savory flavor.
What beverages pair well with burnt ends?
The rich and smoky flavor of burnt ends calls for beverages that can cut through the fat and cleanse the palate. A crisp and refreshing beer, such as an IPA or a lager, is a classic pairing. The bitterness of the beer helps to balance the richness of the meat.
For those who prefer wine, a bold red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Zinfandel, can stand up to the intense flavors of burnt ends. Alternatively, a sparkling wine, such as a dry rosé, provides a refreshing and celebratory contrast. Iced tea or lemonade are also great non-alcoholic options.
How do you reheat leftover burnt ends to maintain their quality?
Reheating leftover burnt ends requires a gentle approach to avoid drying them out. The best method is to wrap them loosely in foil and reheat them in a low oven (around 250°F) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Adding a tablespoon or two of beef broth or barbecue sauce to the foil packet can help to keep them moist.
Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium-low heat with a small amount of oil or butter. Be sure to stir them frequently to prevent burning. Avoid microwaving them, as this can often result in dry and rubbery burnt ends. Reheating them gently will help to preserve their flavor and texture.