Brisket is the star of many barbecues, celebrated for its rich, smoky flavor and tender texture. However, even the best brisket can benefit from the perfect accompaniments. Choosing the right sides can enhance the overall dining experience, adding balance, texture, and flavor. Here are some of the best sides to serve with brisket to make your barbecue unforgettable.
Classic Coleslaw
Coleslaw is a quintessential barbecue side. Its crisp and refreshing texture, combined with a tangy dressing, provides a delightful contrast to the rich and savory brisket. The cabbage and carrots add a crunch that complements the tenderness of the meat, while the acidity of the dressing helps to cut through the fat.
Baked Beans
Baked beans are a hearty and flavorful side that pairs wonderfully with brisket. The smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy flavors of the beans enhance the smokiness of the brisket. Whether you prefer your beans with a hint of molasses or a touch of barbecue sauce, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a Southern staple that brings a touch of sweetness and a soft, crumbly texture to your barbecue spread. Its buttery flavor complements the robust taste of the brisket. You can serve it plain, with a pat of butter, or even with a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Macaroni and Cheese
Macaroni and cheese is a comfort food classic that offers a creamy, cheesy counterpoint to brisket. The gooey cheese sauce and tender pasta make for a rich, indulgent side dish. For an extra special touch, consider adding a crispy breadcrumb topping or incorporating some smoked cheese to echo the flavors of the brisket.
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables are a healthy and colorful addition to your barbecue plate. Bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, and corn on the cob are all excellent choices. The char from the grill enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables and adds a smoky flavor that complements the brisket perfectly.
Potato Salad
Potato salad is a versatile side that can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you prefer a classic mayonnaise-based dressing, a tangy mustard dressing, or a light and refreshing vinaigrette, potato salad offers a creamy and satisfying accompaniment to brisket. Adding ingredients like hard-boiled eggs, pickles, or bacon can further elevate the dish.
Pickles and Pickled Vegetables
Pickles and pickled vegetables bring a tangy, acidic bite that contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors of brisket. Whether you opt for classic dill pickles, pickled red onions, or a medley of pickled vegetables, they add a refreshing and palate-cleansing element to the meal.
Creamed Corn
Creamed corn is a sweet and creamy side that pairs wonderfully with brisket. The natural sweetness of the corn is enhanced by the rich, buttery sauce, creating a side dish that is both comforting and indulgent. For added flavor, consider incorporating roasted or grilled corn kernels.
Green Salad
A simple green salad provides a light and refreshing contrast to the heaviness of brisket.
Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette create a crisp and healthy side that balances the meal. For added texture and flavor, consider topping the salad with nuts, seeds, or cheese.
Bread Rolls
Soft, buttery bread rolls are a classic barbecue side that are perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the brisket. They also provide a neutral, comforting element that allows the flavors of the brisket to shine. Serve them warm with a side of butter for the ultimate comfort food experience.
The best sides for brisket are those that complement its rich, smoky flavor and tender texture.
Whether you prefer classic barbecue staples like coleslaw and baked beans, or lighter options like grilled vegetables and green salad, there is a side dish to suit every taste. By carefully selecting your sides, you can create a balanced and memorable meal that showcases the best of barbecue.
Honorable Mentions
While the aforementioned sides are among the most popular and well-loved accompaniments for brisket, there are several other options worth considering. These honorable mentions can add variety and excitement to your barbecue spread.
Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic party appetizer that can easily double as a side dish for brisket.
Their creamy filling, often flavored with mustard, mayonnaise, and a touch of paprika, provides a tangy and savory bite that pairs well with the smoky brisket.
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries offer a sweet and slightly crispy alternative to regular fries. Their natural sweetness complements the savory flavors of the brisket, and their vibrant color adds visual appeal to your plate. Serve them with a dipping sauce like chipotle mayo or a honey mustard for an extra kick.
Smoked Gouda Grits
For a Southern twist, consider serving smoked Gouda grits alongside your brisket. The creamy, cheesy grits, infused with the smoky flavor of Gouda, provide a rich and comforting side dish that echoes the smokiness of the brisket.
Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts, especially when caramelized and crispy, offer a slightly bitter and earthy contrast to brisket. You can enhance their flavor with a balsamic glaze, bacon bits, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Caprese Salad
A Caprese salad, with its fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, drizzled with balsamic reduction, provides a light and refreshing counterpoint to the heaviness of brisket. The combination of fresh, juicy tomatoes and creamy mozzarella is both delicious and visually appealing.
Tips for Creating a Perfect Barbecue Spread
To ensure your barbecue is a hit, consider the following tips when planning your meal:
Balance Flavors: Aim for a balance of flavors by including a mix of sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy sides. This will keep your guests’ palates interested and satisfied.
Vary Textures: Incorporate a variety of textures to complement the tender brisket. Crispy coleslaw, creamy macaroni and cheese, and crunchy pickles can add an enjoyable contrast.
Consider Dietary Preferences: Be mindful of your guests’ dietary preferences and restrictions.
Include vegetarian, gluten-free, and lighter options to ensure there’s something for everyone.
Plan Ahead: Many side dishes can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to focus on perfecting your brisket on the day of the barbecue. Coleslaw, potato salad, and baked beans often taste better after the flavors have had time to meld.
Presentation Matters: Pay attention to the presentation of your sides. Arrange them in attractive serving dishes and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of spices to make your spread visually appealing.
Pairing the right sides with brisket can elevate your barbecue from great to exceptional.
Whether you stick with traditional favorites like coleslaw and baked beans or explore new options like sweet potato fries and smoked Gouda grits, the key is to create a well-rounded meal that highlights the star of the show: the brisket. By balancing flavors, varying textures, and considering your guests’ preferences, you can create a memorable dining experience that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Unique and Creative Sides
If you’re looking to add a unique twist to your barbecue spread, consider incorporating some creative sides that go beyond the traditional offerings. These dishes can surprise and delight your guests, adding an element of culinary adventure to your meal.
Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins
Take your cornbread up a notch by adding chopped jalapeños and a touch of cheddar cheese to the batter. These spicy and cheesy cornbread muffins offer a bold flavor that pairs perfectly with the smoky richness of brisket.
Watermelon and Feta Salad
A watermelon and feta salad is a refreshing and unexpected side dish. The sweetness of the watermelon, the saltiness of the feta, and the freshness of mint create a harmonious blend of flavors. This salad adds a bright and cooling element to your barbecue spread, providing a delightful contrast to the savory brisket.
Elote (Mexican Street Corn)
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a delicious and flavorful side that adds a festive touch to your barbecue. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered with a creamy mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and cotija cheese, then sprinkled with chili powder and lime juice. The result is a tangy, spicy, and creamy side that complements the brisket beautifully.
Charred Broccolini
Charred broccolini offers a slightly bitter and smoky flavor that pairs well with brisket. Toss broccolini with olive oil, garlic, and a squeeze of lemon juice, then grill or roast until tender and slightly charred. This side dish is simple yet sophisticated, adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
Wild Rice Salad
A wild rice salad with dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and a light vinaigrette is a hearty and nutritious side that brings a variety of textures and flavors to the table. The nutty flavor of the wild rice, the sweetness of the cranberries, and the crunch of the pecans create a delightful combination that pairs well with brisket.
Pairing Beverages with Brisket and Sides
To complete your barbecue experience, consider offering a selection of beverages that complement the flavors of brisket and its sides. Here are some ideas:
Beers
Pale Ale: The hoppy bitterness of a pale ale can cut through the richness of brisket, providing a refreshing contrast.
Stout: A rich, creamy stout pairs well with the deep, smoky flavors of brisket, creating a harmonious pairing.
Lager: A crisp, clean lager offers a light and refreshing counterpoint to the heaviness of the meat.
Zinfandel: The bold, fruity flavors of a Zinfandel can stand up to the robust taste of brisket.
Syrah/Shiraz: These wines offer a balance of fruitiness and spiciness that complements the smoky flavors of barbecue.
Malbec: With its dark fruit flavors and smooth finish, Malbec is a great choice for pairing with brisket.
Non-Alcoholic Options
Iced Tea: A classic choice for barbecues, iced tea (sweet or unsweetened) is refreshing and easy to make in large batches.
Lemonade: The tartness of lemonade provides a bright contrast to the rich flavors of brisket and sides.
Sparkling Water: Flavored or plain sparkling water offers a light and refreshing option that pairs well with any barbecue spread.
Creating the perfect sides for brisket involves balancing flavors, textures, and dietary preferences. From classic coleslaw and baked beans to creative options like jalapeño cornbread muffins and watermelon and feta salad, the right side dishes can elevate your barbecue experience. By considering unique and varied options, you can ensure that your meal is both memorable and delicious. Pairing your brisket and sides with the right beverages further enhances the dining experience, making your barbecue a standout event.
