Beef burnt ends

Beef burnt ends are a barbecue delicacy originating from Kansas City, Missouri, consisting of flavorful, caramelized cubes of beef brisket point. They are typically seasoned with a dry rub, slow-smoked, and then braised in a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce until they become tender, sticky, and richly charred.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is very high in protein and fat, providing a substantial amount of calories, with a typical serving ranging from 400 to 600 calories. It is a significant source of iron and B vitamins, but due to the braising sauce, it can also be high in sugar and sodium.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	450 kcal
Protein	30 g
Carbs	20 g
Fat	28 g
Fiber	1 g
Sugar	15 g
Sodium	1200 mg
Potassium	400 mg
Phosphorus	280 mg
Zinc	8 mg
Iron	4 mg
Niacin (B3)	8 mg
Vitamin B12	3 mcg
Selenium	30 mcg
Cholesterol	110 mg

Per 1 cup (170 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, burnt ends were originally the 'scraps' or ends of the brisket that were considered too fatty, but pitmasters in Kansas City transformed them into a prized menu item. Nutritionally, the slow cooking process renders much of the fat, but the caramelized sauce and charred bits create a unique, intense flavor profile that is a hallmark of American barbecue tradition.