Brisket is a flavorful and tender cut of meat that’s perfect for special occasions, barbecues, or a hearty family dinner. Its rich, beefy taste pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes that can enhance its flavor and create a well-rounded meal. If you’re wondering what to serve with brisket to make your meal memorable, read on for some mouth-watering ideas.
Things You Can Serve with Brisket!
Classic Sides
- Potato Salad Potato salad is a timeless side dish that complements brisket beautifully. The creamy, tangy dressing balances the savory flavor of the meat. You can make it with a classic recipe, including potatoes, mayonnaise, mustard, celery, and pickles, or get creative by adding ingredients like bacon or hard-boiled eggs.
- Coleslaw Another classic option is coleslaw. Its crunchy texture and refreshing taste provide a nice contrast to the tender brisket. Traditional coleslaw recipes usually feature shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing. For a twist, you might try adding apple slices or raisins for extra sweetness.
- Baked Beans Baked beans are a hearty and satisfying choice. The sweet and savory flavors of the beans meld well with brisket, creating a comforting combination. You can make them from scratch or use a high-quality canned version. Adding a bit of barbecue sauce or brown sugar can enhance the flavors even further.
Vegetables and Greens
- Roasted Vegetables Roasted vegetables are a versatile side dish that pairs excellently with brisket. Carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, and onions, when roasted to perfection, bring out their natural sweetness and complement the robust flavor of the meat. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and herbs before roasting for the best results.
- Green Beans Almondine For a more elegant touch, try green beans almondine. The crisp-tender green beans and crunchy almonds provide a delightful contrast to the brisket. Simply sauté the green beans with butter, garlic, and almonds until they are tender and golden.
- Corn on the Cob Corn on the cob is another great side dish, especially during the summer months. You can grill or boil the corn and then slather it with butter and a sprinkle of salt. For added flavor, try seasoning it with herbs or a dash of chili powder.
Comforting Carbs
- Macaroni and Cheese Macaroni and cheese is a rich and creamy side that’s hard to resist. Its cheesy goodness pairs wonderfully with the savory brisket. You can stick to the classic recipe or add extras like bacon, jalapeños, or breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes Garlic mashed potatoes are a comforting choice that goes hand-in-hand with brisket. The creamy texture and garlicky flavor complement the meat perfectly. For a smooth and flavorful mash, boil the potatoes with garlic cloves and then mash them with butter and cream.
- Dinner Rolls Soft and fluffy dinner rolls are a great way to soak up the flavorful juices from the brisket. You can buy them pre-made or bake them from scratch. A touch of butter brushed on top before baking will give them a golden, delicious finish.
Salads and Fresh Options
- Caesar Salad A Caesar salad is a crisp and flavorful choice that can balance the richness of the brisket. The combination of romaine lettuce, Parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty meat.
- Caprese Salad For a light and fresh option, try a Caprese salad. This Italian classic features ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese drizzled with balsamic glaze. It’s a simple yet elegant side that adds a burst of flavor to your meal.
- Fruit Salad A fruit salad can provide a sweet and refreshing counterpoint to the savory brisket. Mix together a variety of fruits, such as berries, melons, and citrus, for a colorful and tasty side. You can even add a splash of citrus juice or a drizzle of honey for extra sweetness.
Sauces and Condiments
- Barbecue Sauce A good barbecue sauce can elevate the flavor of your brisket. Whether you prefer a tangy vinegar-based sauce or a sweet and smoky variety, serving brisket with your favorite barbecue sauce can make for a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Horseradish Sauce If you like a bit of heat, horseradish sauce is a great choice. Its spicy kick can cut through the richness of the brisket and add an extra layer of flavor. Mix horseradish with sour cream or mayonnaise for a creamy and zesty sauce.
- Chimichurri Chimichurri is a vibrant and herbaceous sauce that pairs wonderfully with beef. Made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and oil, this Argentinean condiment adds a fresh and zesty note to your brisket.
Tips for a Perfect Brisket Meal
- Plan Ahead: Brisket often needs time to cook slowly, so plan your meal in advance to ensure everything is ready at the same time.
- Balance Flavors: Choose side dishes that balance the rich flavor of the brisket. Fresh salads, tangy sauces, and light vegetables can help create a well-rounded meal.
- Consider Dietary Preferences: If you’re serving a group, consider offering a variety of sides to accommodate different tastes and dietary needs.
By pairing your brisket with these delicious sides, you can create a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable. Whether you opt for classic choices or try something new, the right side dishes can make your brisket dinner an outstanding experience.
Conclusion
To create a memorable brisket meal, complement the rich, tender meat with a variety of side dishes that enhance and balance its flavor. Classic options like potato salad, coleslaw, and baked beans provide traditional comfort, while roasted vegetables and green beans almondine offer fresh, elegant contrasts. For comforting carbs, macaroni and cheese and garlic mashed potatoes are unbeatable, and fresh salads like Caesar or Caprese add a light touch. With thoughtful planning and a mix of flavors and textures, your brisket dinner will be both satisfying and impressive.
