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best pork belly burnt ends recipe

Poor Man's Burnt Ends

320kcal
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Prep 15 minutes
Cook 1 hour
4 hours
Total 5 hours 15 minutes
Burnt ends are tender, smoky, and caramelized cubes of beef brisket point, originating from Kansas City barbecue. Slow-smoked and coated with a flavorful rub and glaze, they deliver a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors. This recipe guides you through selecting the right brisket, seasoning, smoking, cubing, saucing, and caramelizing for restaurant-quality burnt ends at home.
Servings 8 servings
Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients

  • Meat
  • 5 –7 lbs beef brisket point trimmed
  • Dry Rub
  • 2 tbsp kosher salt
  • 2 tbsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar optional
  • 1 tsp cayenne or chili powder optional
  • Sauce / Glaze
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 2 tbsp honey optional
  • 2 tbsp butter optional

Equipment

  • Smoker or grill with lid (for indirect smoking)
  • Meat thermometer or probe
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Mixing bowl for rub and sauce
  • Aluminum foil or smoker-safe pan

Method

  1. Prepare the Brisket: Trim excess fat, leaving a thin layer. Apply the dry rub evenly and refrigerate for several hours or overnight.
  2. Smoke the Brisket: Preheat smoker to 225°F–250°F (107°C–121°C). Smoke brisket point until internal temperature reaches 195°F–203°F (90°C–95°C), usually 8–12 hours.
  3. Cube and Sauce: Let brisket rest 15–30 minutes. Cut into 1-inch cubes and toss with barbecue sauce, honey, and butter.
  4. Caramelize: Return cubes to smoker or oven for 30–60 minutes until sauce sets and edges caramelize. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories320kcal

Notes

  • Use hardwoods like oak, hickory, or cherry for authentic smoke flavor.
  • Monitor internal temperature with a probe for consistent results.
  • Optional twists: coffee & cocoa rub, maple-sriracha glaze, or Asian-inspired hoisin glaze for unique flavors.
  • Burnt ends are high in calories and sodium; serve with vegetables or lighter sides for balance.
Nutrition Information
  • Calories: 320–400 kcal
  • Protein: 20–25 g
  • Fat: 10–15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5–7 g
  • Carbohydrates: 5–10 g
  • Sugar: 3–6 g
  • Sodium: 450–600 mg
  • Fiber: 0–1 g

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