What are burnt ends?
Burnt ends are a delicacy typically made from beef brisket, pork belly, or any other fatty meat. They are prepared by cooking the meat low and slow until it becomes tender and flavorful. Traditionally, burnt ends are made in a smoker, but we will show you how to make them using a regular grill.
What do I need to make burnt ends on a grill?
To make burnt ends on a grill, you will need the following ingredients:
– 3-4 pounds of beef brisket or pork belly
– Your favorite dry rub seasoning
– Barbecue sauce
– Aluminum foil
– Tongs
– Meat thermometer
– Charcoal and wood chips for smoky flavor
How do I prepare the meat for burnt ends?
Start by trimming excess fat from the brisket or pork belly to ensure even cooking. Cut the meat into 1 to 2-inch cubes, making sure they are all roughly the same size. Season the meat liberally with your chosen dry rub, ensuring all sides are coated. Let the seasoned meat sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour to allow the flavors to penetrate.
How do I set up my grill for indirect grilling?
On a charcoal grill, light the charcoal and let it burn until the flames have subsided, and the charcoal is covered with a thin layer of white ash. Push the charcoal to one side of the grill, creating a hot zone and a cool zone. Place a drip pan filled with water on the cool side to catch any drippings and create moisture. Soak wood chips in water for 30 minutes, then drain and add them to the hot charcoal for a smoky flavor. If using a gas grill, preheat one side of the grill while keeping the other side turned off.
How do I cook the meat for burnt ends on a grill?
Place the seasoned meat cubes directly on the grill grates over the cool zone. Close the lid and let them cook undisturbed for approximately 2-3 hours at a temperature of around 275-300°F. During this time, the meat will slowly absorb the smoke, rendering the fat, and becoming tender. Monitor the internal temperature of the meat using a meat thermometer. Once the internal temperature reaches 195-205°F, they are ready for the next step.
How do I finish the burnt ends?
Carefully remove the partially cooked meat cubes from the grill and place them in a foil pan. Drizzle barbecue sauce over the cubes, stirring gently to coat them evenly. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and return it to the grill over the hot zone. Cook for an additional 1-2 hours, occasionally stirring and basting the cubes with more sauce. The burnt ends are ready when they are richly caramelized, sticky, and tender.
Now that you know how to make burnt ends without a smoker, it’s time to gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and impress your guests with this flavorful barbecue treat. Whether you’re planning a backyard get-together or simply craving some savory burnt ends, this easy grilling technique will undoubtedly satisfy your taste buds!