1 serving Burnt Ends contains approximately 680 calories. If you're a meat lover, you've probably heard of burnt ends before, and you know how mouth-watering they can be. Burnt ends are a dish made from the fatty ends of a smoked beef brisket.

Apart from being delicious, burnt ends are also packed with nutrients. In a serving of burnt ends, you can expect to find high levels of protein, iron, vitamin B12, and other essential nutrients.

In this article, we'll provide you with tips on how to make burnt ends at home, how to lower the calorie count, and how to pair them with side dishes. We'll also take a deep dive into the history of this beloved dish.

What are Burnt Ends?

Burnt ends are a meat delicacy that originated in Kansas City, Missouri. They are made from the fatty ends of a smoked brisket and are characterized by their crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior. Traditionally, burnt ends were a byproduct of smoking brisket, but they have now become a popular dish in their own right. They are usually served with a BBQ sauce and can be eaten on their own or as a protein addition to a sandwich or salad. Crafting the perfect burnt ends requires patience and skill. They need to be cooked until the fat renders and the exterior caramelizes, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Why Are they So Delicious?

Burnt ends are so delicious because they are made from the fattiest and most flavorful part of the brisket. During smoking, the fat renders and infuses the meat with flavor, resulting in a succulent and tender texture. The caramelization of the exterior adds another layer of flavor and texture, resulting in a crispy and savory bite. Combined with the sweetness and tanginess of the BBQ sauce, the combination is unbeatable. It's no wonder that burnt ends have become a sought-after dish, even inspiring their own festivals and competitions.

How to Make Burnt Ends at Home

Making burnt ends at home requires a few essential steps. First, you'll need to prepare the brisket by trimming the fat and seasoning it with a dry rub. Next, you'll need to smoke the brisket over low heat for several hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 195°F. Once the brisket has reached its desired temperature, you'll need to cut the point end into bite-size pieces and return them to the smoker for an additional 2-3 hours until the exterior is caramelized and crispy. Finally, you can serve the burnt ends with your favorite BBQ sauce. While making burnt ends can be time-consuming, the effort is well worth it once you taste the final product.

Tips for Eating Burnt Ends

When it comes to eating burnt ends, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, be prepared for a messy eating experience. Burnt ends are incredibly juicy and fatty, so be sure to have napkins on hand. Next, experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite pairing. Some people prefer a sweet sauce, while others prefer a tangy or spicy one. Finally, consider pairing burnt ends with sides that are both complementary and contrasting. Some popular side dish options include coleslaw, cornbread, mac and cheese, and baked beans.

Nutritional Value of Burnt Ends

While burnt ends are delicious, they are also high in calories and fat. In a serving of burnt ends, you can expect to find approximately 680 calories, 44 grams of protein, and 53 grams of fat. However, burnt ends are also packed with essential nutrients such as iron, vitamin B12, and zinc. They can be a great source of energy for those engaging in high-intensity workouts or training. If you're trying to watch your calorie intake, consider consuming burnt ends in moderation and pairing them with lower-calorie side dishes.

Alternative Ingredients for Lower Calories

If you're looking for a lower-calorie version of burnt ends, consider experimenting with alternative ingredients. For example, you can make a vegetarian version using tofu or seitan. Another option is to use leaner cuts of meat such as chicken breast or turkey. These options will still provide you with the protein and nutrients you need while lowering the overall calorie count. While these alternatives may not be exactly like traditional burnt ends, they can still be a delicious and healthier option.

How to Burn Off Calories from Burnt Ends

If you've enjoyed a serving of burnt ends and want to burn off the calories, there are several exercises you can do. High-intensity workouts such as running, cycling, or weightlifting can help you burn off calories quickly. You can also engage in lower-intensity exercises such as walking, hiking, or yoga to burn off calories over a longer period. Regardless of the type of exercise, it's important to choose a form of activity that you enjoy and can commit to regularly.

Pairing Burnt Ends with Sides

When it comes to pairing burnt ends with sides, there are several options to consider. One popular side dish is coleslaw, which provides a refreshing contrast to the savory meat. Another option is cornbread, which complements the sweetness of the BBQ sauce. Baked beans, mac and cheese, and roasted vegetables are other popular options. Ultimately, the side dishes you choose will depend on your personal preferences and the occasion.

Best Places to Try Burnt Ends

If you're not up for making burnt ends at home, there are several restaurants and BBQ joints where you can try this delicious dish. In Kansas City, some popular spots include Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que, Arthur Bryant's, and Gates Bar-B-Q. Other BBQ hotspots such as Texas, North Carolina, and Memphis also offer their own spin on burnt ends. No matter where you are, there's bound to be a restaurant or food truck nearby that serves burnt ends.

History of Burnt Ends

The origin of burnt ends can be traced back to Kansas City, Missouri, in the early 1900s. They were originally a byproduct of smoking brisket, butchers would remove the burnt, crispy edges of the brisket and toss them out. However, smokehouse workers quickly realized that these burnt ends were a delicious snack and began sneaking them out of the store. Eventually, burnt ends became so popular that they became a mainstay on the BBQ scene. Today, burnt ends are considered a delicacy and have even inspired their own festivals and competitions, such as the Kansas City Barbeque Society's World Series of Barbecue.