Craving the smoky, caramelized goodness of burnt ends without the hefty price tag? This Poor Man’s Burnt Ends recipe is your perfect solution. By using a more affordable cut of meat, you’ll enjoy all the flavors and tenderness of traditional burnt ends. Let’s get cooking!

What Are Poor Man’s Burnt Ends?

Poor Man’s Burnt Ends are a budget-friendly take on the classic dish, typically made from beef brisket or pork shoulder. Instead of these pricier cuts, this recipe uses chuck roast. Chuck roast is an economical option that’s full of fat and collagen, making it tender, juicy, and flavorful when cooked low and slow. With patience and the right technique, you’ll achieve that mouthwatering caramelized exterior we all love.

A Bit of History

The original burnt ends are said to have originated in Kansas City, Missouri, at Arthur Bryant’s Barbecue in the 1950s. Poor Man’s Burnt Ends, however, were likely created as a budget-friendly alternative to the traditional dish. Despite the different cuts of meat, this recipe has become a beloved staple in the barbecue world, offering the same rich flavors without the steep cost.

Ingredients

• 8 lb Chuck Roast (trimmed)
• 2-4 tbsp Mustard (as a binder)
• 1 ½ cups BBQ Sauce (your favorite)
• 3 tbsp Raw Honey
• 6 tbsp Unsalted Butter
• ¼ cup Brown Sugar
• 2 tsp Dry Mustard
• 2 tsp Cinnamon
• 2 tsp Onion Powder
• 2 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tbsp Turbinado Sugar
• 1 tbsp Kosher Salt
• 2 tsp Black Pepper

Instructions

Prep Time: 1 hour

Cook Time: 4 hours 30 minutes

Rest Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 5 hours 50 minutes

Servings: 6

Step 1: Prepare the Rub and Smoker

1. Combine all the dry rub ingredients: brown sugar, turbinado sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, dry mustard, salt, pepper, and cinnamon.
2. Set your smoker to 250°F and let it come up to temperature.

Step 2: Prepare the Chuck Roast

1. If your chuck roast is 3 inches thick or more, cut it in half. This is easier when the beef is chilled.
2. Coat each side of the chuck roast with 2 tablespoons of mustard as a binder.
3. Generously season all sides with your dry rub, then let it sit for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Smoke the Chuck Roast

1. Place the seasoned chuck roast in the smoker and smoke until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (about 3-4 hours).
2. Once it hits 165°F, remove the roast, and wrap it in aluminum foil with 2 tablespoons of butter. Repeat for each piece.
3. Place the wrapped roasts back in the smoker and cook until the internal temperature reaches 195°F.

Step 4: Rest and Cube the Meat

1. Remove the roasts from the smoker and let them rest for 15-20 minutes.
2. Cube the roast into 1-inch pieces.

Step 5: Caramelize the Burnt Ends

1. Place the cubed meat in an aluminum pan.
2. Add 4 tablespoons of butter, 1-1 ½ cups of BBQ sauce, and 3 tablespoons of honey.
3. Mix well and return to the smoker, unwrapped, for about 1 hour, or until the cubes reach an internal temperature of 203°F.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the cubes from the pan, give them one last mix, and serve.
2. Enjoy with family and friends!

Final Thoughts

Poor Man’s Burnt Ends offer an affordable, yet delicious alternative to traditional burnt ends. Perfect for your next BBQ or a satisfying anytime snack, these burnt ends will be a hit with kids and adults alike. While this recipe is a budget-friendly option, don’t hesitate to try the classic version with brisket or pork shoulder if you’re up for a splurge. Either way, you’re in for a treat!