KC Burnt Ends
Caramelized beef brisket chunks glazed in tangy-sweet sauce, charred at the edges for signature crispy-tender texture. A Kansas City barbecue classic made quick on a sheet pan.
- Total time
- 35 min
- Servings
- 4
- Calories
- 415
- Protein
- 38g
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef brisket, trimmed
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup ketchup
- 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 as needed salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1
Set the oven to 325°F and wait until the indicator light or beep signals it has finished heating, about 10 minutes.
- 2
Place the brisket flat on a cutting board and slice it against the grain into 1.5-inch cubes, cutting straight down through the meat as if dividing a loaf of bread into chunks.
- 3
Spread the brisket cubes in a single layer on a large sheet pan, leaving 1 inch of space between each piece so air can circulate around them.
- 4
Roast the brisket at 325°F for 20 minutes without stirring, until the surface begins to darken and look slightly dried out at the edges.
- 5
Remove the pan from the oven and carefully pour off any liquid that has pooled at the bottom of the pan.
- 6
In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce until smooth and no lumps of sugar remain.
- 7
Pour the glaze over the brisket cubes and stir gently with a spoon until every piece is coated, about 30 seconds.
- 8
Return the pan to the oven and increase the temperature to 425°F, then roast for 12 more minutes until the glaze darkens to deep brown and the edges look charred and caramelized.
- 9
Remove the pan from the oven and taste one piece; sprinkle salt and pepper over the entire batch to your liking, then stir gently to combine.
- 10
Let the burnt ends rest in the pan for 2 minutes so the glaze sets slightly, then transfer to a serving platter or bowl using a spoon.
Tools you’ll need
- oven
- large sheet pan (18 x 13 inches or larger)
- cutting board
- chef's knife
- small bowl
- whisk
- spoon
- meat thermometer (optional, for checking doneness)
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