Brisket sandwiches are a delightful treat, often considered a staple in BBQ culture. Their smoky, tender meat tucked between two slices of bread makes for a hearty and satisfying meal. But what truly elevates a brisket sandwich to a complete dining experience are the side dishes that accompany it. Have you ever wondered ”what goes well with sandwiches made with brisket?” you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore a variety of mouthwatering sides that complement the rich flavors of brisket, offering something for everyone, whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, planning a weeknight dinner, or simply indulging in a comfort meal.
Introduction to What Goes with Brisket Sandwiches
When you think of brisket sandwiches, the first thing that likely comes to mind is their succulent, smoky flavor. These sandwiches, often loaded with tender beef and a tangy sauce, are a crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. However, the key to making a brisket sandwich meal truly unforgettable lies in the sides you serve with it. From crispy coleslaw to creamy mac and cheese, the right side dishes can enhance the flavors of your brisket sandwich, making each bite more satisfying.
What goes with brisket sandwiches is not just about filling the plate; it’s about creating a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and even colors. Whether you’re aiming for a light, refreshing contrast to the rich brisket or a hearty accompaniment that stands up to its bold taste, there’s a side dish that will perfectly complement your meal.
In this guide, we’ll cover various options ranging from classic BBQ sides to healthier alternatives and gourmet choices. We’ll also explore dietary substitutions and customization tips, so you can tailor your meal to suit your needs or preferences. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or cooking for one, this comprehensive guide will ensure you know exactly what goes with brisket sandwiches to create a memorable meal.
Benefits and Advantages of Perfectly Paired Sides with Brisket Sandwiches
Understanding what goes with brisket sandwiches can transform a simple sandwich into a full-fledged meal that satisfies all your senses. The right pairings can balance the robust flavors of brisket, providing contrast, complement, or even a bit of indulgence to enhance your dining experience.
Enhancing Brisket Sandwich Flavor Profiles
One of the main benefits of pairing brisket sandwiches with the right sides is the enhancement of flavors. Brisket is rich, smoky, and often has a deep, savory taste that can be complemented by sides that are either refreshing or equally robust. For example, a tangy coleslaw can cut through the richness of the meat, while a creamy potato salad adds a comforting, starchy balance.
Texture Contrast with Brisket Sandwiches
Texture plays a crucial role in meal satisfaction. Brisket sandwiches are typically tender and juicy, so adding a side dish with a contrasting texture can make each bite more interesting. Crispy fries or a crunchy salad can provide that needed contrast, making the meal more dynamic and enjoyable.
Nutritional Balance with Brisket Sandwiches
While brisket sandwiches are a great source of protein, they can be heavy on fats, especially if you’re enjoying them with a rich BBQ sauce. Pairing your sandwich with sides like steamed vegetables, a fresh green salad, or grilled asparagus can add nutritional value, offering vitamins, minerals, and fiber that balance out the meal.
Nutritional Balance with Brisket and Sandwich Sides
Another advantage of understanding what goes with brisket sandwiches is the ability to cater to different dietary needs. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ with guests who have specific dietary restrictions or you’re looking to lighten up your own meal, the right sides can provide variety and inclusivity. Opt for gluten-free cornbread, vegan baked beans, or a quinoa salad to ensure everyone can enjoy the meal.
Creating a Complete Brisket Sandwich Meal Experience
Finally, the right side dishes turn your brisket sandwich from a quick bite into a full, satisfying meal. This is especially important when you’re entertaining or serving the sandwiches as part of a larger meal. Sides like cheesy grits, pickled vegetables, or baked beans not only fill the plate but also round out the flavors, making the meal feel complete and well thought out.
Understanding what goes with brisket sandwiches ensures that you can craft meals that are not just delicious, but also well-balanced, nutritionally sound, and satisfying for all your guests or family members.
Brisket Sandwiches: Ingredients Overview for What Goes with Brisket Sandwiches
When deciding what goes with brisket sandwiches, it’s essential to consider ingredients that will complement the star of the show—the brisket. Below, we’ll dive into some must-have ingredients for popular side dishes, along with potential dietary substitutions to suit a variety of needs.
Essential Ingredients for What Goes with Brisket Sandwiches
- Cabbage and Carrots: For a classic coleslaw, cabbage and carrots are the foundational ingredients. Their crunch and slight sweetness contrast perfectly with the rich brisket.
- Potatoes: Whether for potato salad, mashed potatoes, or fries, potatoes are a versatile side that pairs well with brisket sandwiches. They provide a comforting, starchy base that balances the meat’s smokiness.
- Cornmeal: Essential for making cornbread, which adds a slightly sweet and crumbly texture that complements the savory brisket.
- Pickles: The tangy, briny flavor of pickles is an excellent contrast to the richness of brisket. They can be served on the side or added directly to the sandwich.
- Cheese: For those who love a bit of indulgence, cheese is a must. Whether you’re making mac and cheese or adding a slice to your sandwich, it’s a rich, creamy addition that pairs well with brisket.
- Beans: Baked beans or a bean salad are popular choices. Their hearty texture and sweet, smoky flavors match the depth of a brisket sandwich.
- Leafy Greens: For a lighter, refreshing side, leafy greens like kale, spinach, or arugula can be used in salads or as a sandwich topping.
- Vinegar and Mustard: Key ingredients for tangy dressings and sauces, such as vinegar and mustard, cut through the richness of the brisket and add a zesty punch.
Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Brisket Sandwich Meal
Not everyone can or wants to indulge in the traditional sides that typically accompany brisket sandwiches. Here are some substitutions to make your meal inclusive of different dietary needs:
- Gluten-Free Options: Swap traditional cornbread for a gluten-free version made with almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend. Similarly, opt for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps for the sandwiches.
- Vegan Substitutes: For a vegan-friendly meal, replace dairy-based sides like mac and cheese with a vegan version using cashew cream or nutritional yeast. You can also serve grilled vegetables, vegan coleslaw (made with vegan mayo), or a quinoa salad.
- Low-Carb Choices: If you’re watching your carb intake, consider sides like roasted cauliflower, zucchini noodles, or a leafy green salad instead of potato salad or fries.
- Dairy-Free Alternatives: For those avoiding dairy, substitute regular cheese with plant-based cheese in mac and cheese or sandwiches. Additionally, coconut milk or almond milk can be used in mashed potatoes or creamy sides.
- Low-Calorie Pairings: To keep things light, opt for a cucumber salad, steamed broccoli, or a simple mixed green salad. These sides not only add freshness and nutrition but also do so without adding too many calories.
- Nut-Free Modifications: If you need to avoid nuts, skip the almond flour in gluten-free baking or ensure your salads and sides are free from nuts and nut-based oils.
These dietary substitutions allow you to adapt your meal to meet the needs of your guests or your own dietary preferences, ultimately ensuring everyone can enjoy a delicious and satisfying brisket sandwich meal.
How to Prepare the Perfect Brisket Sandwiches Meal: Step-by-Step Guide
Creating a memorable meal with brisket sandwiches involves more than just preparing the meat. It’s about crafting a plate where each element works in harmony. Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing a brisket sandwich meal that includes the perfect side dishes.
First Step: Preparing the Brisket
Start by slow-cooking or smoking your brisket until it’s tender and juicy. This process can take several hours, depending on the size of the brisket and the cooking method used. Season the brisket with your choice of spices, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika, to enhance its natural flavors.
Second Step: Making the Coleslaw
While the brisket is cooking, prepare a tangy coleslaw. Shred a head of cabbage and a couple of carrots, then mix them in a bowl with a dressing made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. This coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch to the meal and can be served on the side or as a topping for the sandwich.
Third Step: Cooking the Potatoes
For a comforting side, consider making potato salad or mashed potatoes. Boil your potatoes until tender, then mix with a dressing made from mayonnaise, mustard, pickles, and boiled eggs for potato salad. For mashed potatoes, whip boiled potatoes with butter, cream, and a touch of garlic until smooth.
Fourth Step: Baking the Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic accompaniment to BBQ dishes like brisket sandwiches. Mix cornmeal with flour, sugar, eggs, milk, and butter, then bake until golden brown. For a twist, add some diced jalapenos or cheddar cheese to the batter.
Fifth Step: Preparing the Pickles and Vegetables
Pickles are a must-have with brisket sandwiches. You can either use store-bought pickles or make your own by pickling cucumbers in a mixture of vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Additionally, prepare some roasted or grilled vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini for a healthy side dish.
Sixth Step: Assembling the Brisket Sandwich
Once your brisket is ready, slice it thinly against the grain. Toast your bread or buns, then layer the brisket slices on the bottom half. Add a dollop of BBQ sauce, a scoop of coleslaw, and a few pickle slices before topping with the other half of the bun.
Seventh Step: Serving the Meal
Arrange your brisket sandwiches on a platter with the side dishes you’ve prepared. Then, serve the sandwiches with a generous portion of coleslaw, a slice of cornbread, a scoop of potato salad or mashed potatoes, and some pickles or grilled vegetables.
Final Step: Enjoying Your Meal
Gather around the table with your family or friends and enjoy your brisket sandwich meal. Each bite should offer a balance of flavors and textures, from the tender brisket and tangy coleslaw to the comforting sides.
Mastering What Goes with Brisket Sandwiches: Advanced Tips and Variations
Once you’ve mastered the basics of preparing brisket sandwiches and their accompanying sides, you might want to explore some advanced tips and variations to elevate your meal even further.
Experiment with Flavored Butters
Flavored butters can add a gourmet touch to your brisket sandwich meal. Consider making a garlic-herb butter to spread on your cornbread or toast your sandwich buns. You can also try a honey-butter blend for a sweet contrast to the savory brisket.
Try Different Types of Bread
The type of bread you use for your brisket sandwich can change the entire experience. While traditional sandwich buns are popular, you could also try ciabatta, sourdough, or even a pretzel bun for a different texture and flavor.
Add a Twist to Classic Sides
Give your classic sides a twist by incorporating unique ingredients. For example, add smoked paprika or chipotle powder to your potato salad for a smoky kick. You could also mix some fresh herbs like cilantro or dill into your coleslaw for added freshness.
Explore International Flavors
Brisket sandwiches pair well with a variety of international flavors. For example, try serving your brisket with Mexican-inspired sides like elote (Mexican street corn) or a spicy black bean salad. Alternatively, go for an Asian twist with a side of kimchi or a cucumber salad with sesame dressing.
Make It a Loaded Sandwich
For those who love a hearty meal, consider making a loaded brisket sandwich. Add layers of cheese, sautéed onions, and even a fried egg to your sandwich. This adds richness and makes the sandwich even more satisfying.
How to Store What Goes with Brisket Sandwiches: Best Practices
Proper storage of your brisket sandwiches and their sides ensures that you can enjoy leftovers without compromising on taste or texture. Here’s how to store your meal components effectively:
Storing Brisket
Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 3-4 days when stored properly. To reheat, slice the brisket thinly and warm it in a skillet with a little beef broth or BBQ sauce to prevent it from drying out.
Storing Side Dishes
- Coleslaw: Store coleslaw in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2-3 days. Stir before serving again to redistribute the dressing.
- Potato Salad: Like coleslaw, potato salad should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within 3 days.
- Cornbread: Wrap cornbread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It is suitable for storage at ambient temperature for a maximum of 2 days or under refrigeration for a maximum of 1 week.
Freezing Options
Brisket freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the brisket tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Side dishes like mashed potatoes and baked beans also freeze well. Store them in airtight containers, and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips
When reheating brisket, do so gently to avoid drying it out. Use a skillet with some added liquid, or reheat it in the oven covered with foil. Side dishes like mashed potatoes and baked beans can be reheated in the microwave or oven. For best results, add a little milk or broth to mashed potatoes to restore their creamy texture.
Nutritional Value for What Goes with Brisket Sandwiches
A typical brisket sandwich meal is a hearty and satisfying option, but it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content, especially if you’re watching your intake of certain nutrients.
Brisket Sandwich
- Calories: Approximately 500-700 calories per sandwich, depending on the size and ingredients.
- Protein: 25-30 grams
- Fat: 25-35 grams, with saturated fats depending on the cut of brisket used.
- Carbohydrates: 40-50 grams, primarily from the bread.
Coleslaw
- Calories: Around 150-200 calories per serving.
- Fat: 10-15 grams, primarily from the mayonnaise.
- Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams.
- Fiber: 2-3 grams.
Potato Salad
- Calories: Approximately 200-300 calories per serving.
- Fat: 12-20 grams.
- Carbohydrates: 25-35 grams.
- Protein: 3-5 grams.
Cornbread
- Calories: About 150-200 calories per slice.
- Carbohydrates: 30-35 grams.
- Fat: 5-10 grams.
- Protein: 3-4 grams.
Pickles and Vegetables
- Calories: Low in calories, around 5-20 per serving.
- Carbohydrates: Minimal, 1-5 grams.
- Fiber: 1-2 grams, depending on the vegetables.
Total Nutritional Summary
A complete brisket sandwich meal could range from 900 to 1,500 calories, depending on portion sizes and specific ingredients used. It’s rich in protein and fats, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates. To balance your meal, consider portion control or pairing the sandwich with lighter, vegetable-based sides.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About What Goes with Brisket Sandwiches
What are some quick and easy sides to serve with brisket sandwiches?
If you’re short on time, consider easy sides like a simple green salad, store-bought coleslaw, or steamed vegetables. Oven-baked fries or sweet potato fries are also quick and pair well with brisket sandwiches.
Can I prepare sides in advance?
Yes, many sides can be prepared in advance. For instance, coleslaw, potato salad, and cornbread can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. This way, it’s easier to focus on cooking the brisket on the day of your meal.
What drinks pair well with brisket sandwiches?
Brisket sandwiches pair well with a variety of drinks. Classic choices include iced tea, lemonade, or beer. For something different, try a smoky whiskey cocktail or a refreshing soda.
Are there any low-calorie side options for brisket sandwiches?
For a low-calorie side, consider opting for a cucumber salad, steamed broccoli, or a mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette. Not only do these options add freshness and nutrition, but they also do so without adding too many calories.
How can I make my brisket sandwich meal healthier?
To make your brisket sandwich meal healthier, use whole-grain bread or a lettuce wrap instead of white bread, opt for lighter sides like steamed vegetables, and limit high-calorie additions like cheese or heavy sauces.
What is the best way to reheat brisket?
The best way to reheat brisket is in a skillet with a little beef broth or BBQ sauce over low heat, since this helps keep the meat moist. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven, covered with foil, at a low temperature.