If you’re crafting a mouthwatering brisket sandwich, you’ve already nailed the main event. But what truly completes the meal are the sides that complement the smoky, savory flavors of the brisket. From classic BBQ favorites like coleslaw and baked beans to more unconventional options like grilled vegetables and cucumber salad, the right sides can elevate your sandwich experience. So, what goes with brisket sandwiches? Let’s dive into a comprehensive guide filled with delicious ideas that cater to every palate.
Introduction: Why Side Dishes Matter for Brisket Sandwiches
A brisket sandwich is rich, tender, and full of deep flavors, often seasoned with spices or BBQ sauce. When thinking about what goes with brisket sandwiches, the key is balance. You want to pair the hearty, smoky meat with sides that either complement or contrast the richness. The right side dish can transform a meal from good to great. Whether you prefer classic BBQ sides or want to try something lighter, this guide will help you find the perfect accompaniments for your next brisket sandwich.
Classic Sides for Brisket Sandwiches
When it comes to brisket sandwiches, the classics never disappoint. These side dishes are BBQ staples and perfectly balance the smoky and savory profile of the brisket.
Coleslaw
Why It Pairs Well: The crisp crunch of coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the brisket. Its tangy, slightly sweet flavor cuts through the smokiness of the meat, making it a perfect companion for brisket sandwiches.
How to Prepare: You can go with either a creamy mayonnaise-based coleslaw or a tangy vinegar-based version. For a classic creamy slaw, mix shredded cabbage and carrots with mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Vinegar slaw is a lighter option, using apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and spices for a tangy bite.
Baked Beans
Why It Pairs Well: Baked beans offer a sweet and savory flavor that complements the smoky brisket. They add a touch of sweetness, which balances the salty, rich meat.
How to Prepare: Slow-cooked beans in a mixture of molasses, brown sugar, mustard, and bacon create a side dish that’s perfect for BBQ. You can make it on the stove or in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach.
Potato Salad
Why It Pairs Well: A cool, creamy potato salad contrasts the warmth of the brisket sandwich, creating a comforting combination. The starchiness of the potatoes also helps to mellow the richness of the brisket.
Variations: Traditional mayo-based potato salad is a BBQ favorite, but mustard-based or vinegar-based versions are lighter and provide more tang.
Hearty Sides for a Filling Meal
Looking for something more substantial to pair with your brisket sandwiches? These hearty sides add a filling touch that will leave everyone satisfied.
Mac and Cheese
Why It Pairs Well: Few things are as comforting as mac and cheese. The rich, cheesy goodness pairs perfectly with the smoky flavors of brisket, offering a creamy balance to the robust meat.
How to Prepare: For the ultimate mac and cheese, opt for a baked version with a crispy topping. A combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and a hint of parmesan creates a flavorful, gooey sauce that complements your brisket sandwiches beautifully.
Cornbread
Why It Pairs Well: Slightly sweet and crumbly, cornbread is the perfect partner for brisket sandwiches. The mild flavor of cornbread doesn’t compete with the brisket; instead, it enhances the overall meal by adding texture and a touch of sweetness.
How to Prepare: Serve cornbread warm with a dollop of butter or drizzle honey on top for added flavor.
Mashed Potatoes
Why It Pairs Well: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth, buttery texture that pairs wonderfully with tender brisket.
How to Prepare: Opt for rich mashed potatoes with plenty of butter and cream for a luxurious side dish. For extra flavor, mix in roasted garlic or fresh herbs like chives or parsley.
Lighter and Healthier Side Options
Sometimes you need a lighter side dish to balance out the richness of the brisket sandwiches. These fresh, healthier options will leave you satisfied without feeling too heavy.
Grilled Vegetables
Why It Pairs Well: Grilled vegetables bring a fresh, light flavor that contrasts nicely with the bold, smoky taste of brisket. The charred, slightly caramelized edges from grilling add a touch of sweetness.
How to Prepare: Grill vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, and onions. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before grilling to enhance their natural flavors.
Vinegar-Based Slaws
Why It Pairs Well: Lighter than creamy coleslaw, vinegar-based slaws offer a tangy, refreshing side that helps cut through the richness of the brisket. It’s perfect if you want something crisp and acidic.
How to Prepare: Use shredded cabbage, carrots, and onions, and dress with a mixture of apple cider vinegar, olive oil, sugar, and a dash of mustard. Let it marinate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Cucumber Salad
Why It Pairs Well: Cool and refreshing, cucumber salad brings a clean, crisp flavor that complements brisket sandwiches. The lightness of cucumbers contrasts beautifully with the heavier, smoky brisket.
How to Prepare: Thinly slice cucumbers and red onions, then toss them in a dressing of vinegar, olive oil, and dill. The result is a light, tangy salad that refreshes your palate.
Southern-Inspired Side Dishes for Brisket Sandwiches
For a true Southern BBQ experience, consider these classic dishes that are steeped in tradition and pair perfectly with brisket sandwiches.
Collard Greens
Why It Pairs Well: Slow-cooked collard greens bring a savory, earthy flavor that complements the smoky richness of brisket. Their bold taste and soft texture balance the meal.
How to Prepare: Cook collard greens with smoked ham hocks or bacon, adding onion and garlic for depth of flavor. Let them simmer low and slow until tender.
Fried Okra
Why It Pairs Well: Crispy, golden fried okra provides a delightful contrast in texture to the softness of the brisket and bread. Its mild flavor won’t overpower the sandwich, but the crispy coating adds a satisfying crunch.
How to Prepare: Lightly coat okra in cornmeal and fry until golden and crisp. Serve immediately to enjoy that perfect crunch.
Corn Pudding
Why It Pairs Well: Sweet and creamy, corn pudding is a comforting side that adds warmth to your brisket sandwiches meal.
How to Prepare: This custard-like dish combines whole corn kernels with cream, butter, and eggs, creating a soft, spoonable side that contrasts well with the smoky, chewy brisket.
International Flavors to Elevate Brisket Sandwiches
If you’re looking to add some international flair to your BBQ, these side dishes from around the world pair beautifully with brisket sandwiches.
Mexican Street Corn
Why It Pairs Well: Also known as “elote,” Mexican street corn brings a creamy, spicy, and tangy flavor that enhances the bold taste of brisket. The grilled corn’s sweetness also contrasts with the savory sandwich.
How to Prepare: Grill corn on the cob and slather with a mixture of mayonnaise, lime juice, chili powder, and cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of cilantro for added flavor.
Spanish Rice
Why It Pairs Well: Spanish rice offers a savory, tomato-based side that adds richness and a touch of spice to your BBQ meal. It pairs well with brisket because it introduces a new flavor dimension without overwhelming the sandwich.
How to Prepare: Cook rice with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices like cumin and paprika. Add fresh cilantro for extra zest.
Pickled Red Onions
Why It Pairs Well: Sharp and tangy, pickled red onions bring a refreshing bite to the meal, cutting through the fatty richness of the brisket.
How to Prepare: Quickly pickle red onions by soaking them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Unique and Non-Traditional Side Ideas
For something out of the ordinary, try these unique sides that pair surprisingly well with brisket sandwiches.
Sweet Potato Fries
Why It Pairs Well: The sweetness of sweet potato fries contrasts with the smoky, savory flavors of the brisket. The crispy texture also adds a nice crunch to the meal.
How to Prepare: Cut sweet potatoes into thin wedges, toss in olive oil and spices like paprika and chili powder, and bake or fry until crisp.
Gnocchi
Why It Pairs Well: Soft, pillowy gnocchi provides a hearty, comforting side that pairs well with brisket sandwiches. The gnocchi absorb the flavors of BBQ sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
How to Prepare: Lightly fry the gnocchi in butter or serve with a simple brown butter and sage sauce for added depth.
Brussels Sprouts
Why It Pairs Well: Roasted Brussels sprouts have a slightly bitter, caramelized flavor that complements the smoky brisket.
How to Prepare: Roast Brussels sprouts with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and garlic until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
Sauces and Condiments to Serve with Brisket Sandwiches
No brisket sandwich is complete without the right sauce or condiment to enhance the flavor. Here are a few to consider.
BBQ Sauce
Why It Pairs Well: A tangy, smoky BBQ sauce is the perfect complement to brisket, enhancing its flavors while adding moisture.
How to Prepare: Try a homemade Kansas City-style BBQ sauce for sweetness, or go for a Texas-style sauce that’s spicier and less sweet.
Pickles
Why It Pairs Well: The acidity of pickles cuts through the richness of the brisket, adding a tangy crunch to every bite.
How to Prepare: Quick-pickled cucumbers or store-bought dill pickles work equally well with brisket sandwiches.
Horseradish Sauce
Why It Pairs Well: If you like a bit of heat, horseradish sauce adds a spicy kick to your brisket sandwich, cutting through the meat’s fattiness.
Drinks That Pair Well with Brisket Sandwiches
Of course, you’ll need the perfect beverage to wash down your brisket sandwich. Here are some drink pairings that go well with BBQ.
Beer
Why It Pairs Well: Beer is a classic BBQ drink that complements the smoky, savory notes of brisket. A crisp lager or a hoppy IPA adds a refreshing contrast.
Iced Tea
Why It Pairs Well: Sweet or unsweetened iced tea provides a refreshing, cooling balance to the rich flavors of the brisket.
Lemonade
Why It Pairs Well: Lemonade’s tartness cuts through the heaviness of the meat, adding a sweet and tangy note to the meal.
Dessert Ideas to End a Brisket Sandwich Meal
No meal is complete without dessert. After indulging in a rich, smoky brisket sandwich, these sweet treats make the perfect ending.
Peach Cobbler
Why It Pairs Well: The sweetness and fruity flavor of peach cobbler bring a delightful contrast to the savory brisket.
How to Prepare: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly decadent dessert.
Banana Pudding
Why It Pairs Well: Banana pudding is light, creamy, and provides a sweet, comforting end to a BBQ meal.
How to Prepare: Layer vanilla wafers, bananas, and creamy pudding for a classic Southern dessert.
Chocolate Brownies
Why It Pairs Well: Rich, fudgy brownies are a delicious treat that balances the savory meal with a hint of indulgence.
How to Prepare: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added decadence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a brisket sandwich made of?
A brisket sandwich is typically made with smoked or slow-cooked brisket, often served on a soft roll or bun with toppings like BBQ sauce, coleslaw, and pickles.
What cheese goes with brisket?
Cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or mozzarella work well with brisket, adding a creamy, melty texture to the sandwich.
What is the best bread for a brisket sandwich?
The best bread for a brisket sandwich includes brioche buns, potato rolls, or Texas toast. These options are sturdy enough to hold the brisket while adding complementary flavors and textures.
Conclusion: Crafting the Perfect Meal Around a Brisket Sandwich
Choosing the right sides is key to creating the perfect meal centered around a brisket sandwich. Whether you prefer classic BBQ sides like coleslaw and baked beans or want to experiment with lighter, healthier options like cucumber salad, there’s no shortage of ways to complement the smoky flavors of brisket. By mixing and matching sides, sauces, and even beverages, you can craft a balanced, delicious meal that satisfies every palate.