In Texas, brisket isn’t just a meal—it’s a cultural staple and a symbol of BBQ mastery. Texans take great pride in the art of smoking brisket, transforming this cut of meat into a tender, smoky delicacy that stands on its own. But the right sides and accompaniments are what truly make a Texas BBQ experience complete. This guide dives into the classic and unique dishes that Texans traditionally serve alongside brisket to create the perfect BBQ spread.
Introduction: The Art of Texas BBQ Pairings
When it comes to Texas BBQ, the sides and accompaniments are just as important as the brisket itself. Texans have perfected the art of pairing brisket with sides that balance its rich, smoky flavor while enhancing the overall meal. With tangy pickles, savory beans, and refreshing coleslaw, each side dish adds a layer of flavor and texture that complements the brisket perfectly.
Classic Texan Sides for Brisket
Texan BBQ culture is known for its simplicity, relying on a few essential sides that have become iconic accompaniments for brisket. Here are the traditional sides that you’ll almost always find at a Texas BBQ.
1. Baked Beans
Baked beans are a Texas BBQ staple. Texans often make these beans with brown sugar, molasses, and a hint of smokiness, which complements the brisket beautifully. Some recipes include bacon or ham hocks for added flavor. The result is a side dish that balances sweetness and richness with the smoky brisket.
For an authentic recipe, check out Texas BBQ Baked Beans.
2. Potato Salad
Potato salad is another classic Texan side that pairs well with brisket. Texans tend to prefer a creamy potato salad made with mustard, mayonnaise, and pickles, which adds a cool, tangy element to the meal. For a lighter twist, vinegar-based potato salad is also popular, especially in summer months when a refreshing bite is welcome alongside the rich meat.
For unique potato salad ideas, visit Texas-Style Potato Salad Recipes.
3. Coleslaw
Coleslaw adds a crunchy, refreshing balance to the rich, smoky brisket. Texans often enjoy both creamy and vinegar-based coleslaw, depending on the flavor profile they’re looking for. The tanginess of coleslaw cuts through the heaviness of the brisket, creating a satisfying contrast with each bite.
4. Jalapeño Cornbread
Cornbread is a beloved Southern staple, and in Texas, it often gets an upgrade with the addition of jalapeños. The subtle sweetness of the cornbread pairs well with brisket, while the jalapeños add a kick of heat that enhances the BBQ flavors. Texans may serve it warm with a drizzle of honey or a pat of butter to add even more richness.
Unique Texan Sides for Brisket
Beyond the traditional sides, Texans also love experimenting with unique accompaniments that bring new flavors and textures to the BBQ table. Here are a few unique sides Texans often serve with brisket.
1. Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Elote, or Mexican street corn, has become increasingly popular at Texas BBQs. The grilled corn is brushed with mayo, rolled in cheese, and sprinkled with chili powder and lime juice. The result is a smoky, creamy, and tangy side that pairs excellently with brisket.
2. Pickled Vegetables
Pickles are a Texas BBQ essential, but Texans often go beyond traditional dill pickles by adding a variety of pickled vegetables, such as onions, jalapeños, and carrots. These pickles bring a tangy crunch that contrasts beautifully with the richness of brisket, refreshing the palate between bites.
3. Macaroni and Cheese
While mac and cheese is popular across the U.S., Texans love to serve it alongside brisket. Made with a rich cheese sauce, creamy mac and cheese is a comforting, indulgent side that complements the smokiness of brisket. For an added Texas twist, some versions include smoked gouda or a sprinkle of chili powder.
For mac and cheese inspiration, visit Texas Mac and Cheese Recipes.
Toppings Texans Love with Brisket
Texans keep it simple with toppings, focusing on flavors that enhance the brisket without overpowering it. Here are the most common toppings you’ll find on a brisket plate in Texas.
Pickles and Onions
Pickles and onions are perhaps the most iconic Texan accompaniments for brisket. The acidity of pickles and the sharpness of raw onions provide a refreshing contrast that balances the rich, smoky brisket. Texans typically prefer dill pickles, but pickled jalapeños are also popular for those who want a bit of heat.
BBQ Sauce
While some purists insist that a good brisket doesn’t need sauce, BBQ sauce is often available as a condiment. Texas BBQ sauce tends to be tangy and slightly sweet, with a tomato base. Many Texans add just a light drizzle to complement, not mask, the brisket’s smoky flavor.
For more on authentic Texas BBQ sauces, visit Top BBQ Sauce Pairings.
Bread Options Texans Serve with Brisket
The right bread can make a brisket meal even more enjoyable, and Texans have some go-to options that stand out.
White Bread
Texans often serve brisket with thick slices of white bread. It’s simple, soft, and perfect for soaking up the brisket’s juices without competing with its flavor. Some BBQ spots offer toasted white bread or even buttery Texas toast for added texture.
Flour Tortillas
In Texas, you may also find brisket served with flour tortillas, especially in areas with Mexican culinary influence. The tortilla wraps around the brisket, making a delicious, handheld BBQ experience. Adding a few pickles and onions inside the tortilla gives a unique Tex-Mex twist to the traditional brisket plate.
For more bread pairing ideas, visit Carole Recipes’ Ultimate Guide to Making the Perfect Brisket Sandwich.
Texan Drink Pairings for Brisket
The right drink can elevate the BBQ experience, and Texans have some classic choices for pairing with brisket.
Sweet Tea
Sweet tea is a Texan staple, and its refreshing, slightly sweet flavor pairs perfectly with smoky BBQ. The sweetness complements the spices in the brisket rub, making it a popular non-alcoholic choice for BBQ meals.
Lemonade
Lemonade, like sweet tea, is another refreshing option that balances the richness of brisket. The citrusy acidity of lemonade contrasts with the smoky meat, creating a light, enjoyable pairing.
For more Texan-inspired drink pairings, check out BBQ Beverage Inspirations.
Desserts Texans Love with Brisket
After a filling brisket meal, a light dessert is the perfect ending. Texans love simple, classic desserts that provide a sweet contrast to BBQ.
Peach Cobbler
Peach cobbler is a traditional Southern dessert that Texans often serve with BBQ. The warm, juicy peaches and crumbly topping are the perfect way to end a BBQ meal, adding a sweet finish that contrasts with the savory brisket.
Pecan Pie
Pecan pie, another Southern favorite, is a great choice for a Texas BBQ dessert. The rich, nutty flavor of pecans and the sweet filling offer a delightful complement to the brisket’s smokiness.
For unique Texas dessert recipes, visit Perfect BBQ Desserts.
FAQs: What Do Texans Serve with Brisket?
Can I add toppings like onions and pickles beforehand?
Yes, toppings like onions and pickles can be prepared ahead of time and served fresh. They add a refreshing contrast and don’t interfere with the brisket’s flavor if kept separate until serving.
What is the best type of potato salad for Texas BBQ?
Creamy mustard-based potato salad is the traditional choice in Texas. However, a vinegar-based potato salad is also popular in summer, as it provides a lighter option.
Do Texans use BBQ sauce on brisket?
Many Texans believe good brisket doesn’t need sauce, but BBQ sauce is often available as an option. Texas BBQ sauce is usually tangy with a touch of sweetness, enhancing the brisket’s flavor.
What are the most popular pickled items to serve with brisket?
Dill pickles are the most popular choice, but pickled jalapeños, onions, and carrots are also common additions to add a spicy and tangy bite.
How much brisket should I plan per person?
A portion of about half a pound per person is typically sufficient, though you may want to adjust this based on guest preferences and appetites.
Conclusion: Perfecting the Texas Brisket Experience
Texans have mastered the art of pairing brisket with sides that enhance its rich, smoky flavor. From traditional staples like baked beans, potato salad, and coleslaw to unique options like jalapeño cornbread and Mexican street corn, every side brings its own flavor and texture to the BBQ plate. Accompanied by simple, refreshing drinks like sweet tea and lemonade, and ending with classic Southern desserts, a Texas brisket meal is an experience in itself.