When indulging in a well-crafted dish like Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket, it’s essential to think about the components that elevate the experience. Imagine sinking your teeth into that tender brisket, complemented by a crispy side, refreshing drink, and maybe even a tangy razor-sharp pickle to cleanse your palate. Here’s what I like to pair with my brisket:
Crispy Onion Rings – Their crunch perfectly contrasts the smoky brisket, adding a delightful texture. Each bite is a party for the taste buds.
The sweetness of the fries balances the rich flavors of the brisket. Plus, they’re a healthier option than traditional fries!
The acidity of coleslaw cuts through the richness, making each bite harmonious.
The sharpness of pickles and the heat from peppers provide a refreshing break from the heavy brisket.
As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I always search for that perfect dish to round out a satisfying meal. A few years ago, I stumbled upon Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket. The moment I tried it, I was hooked! The combination of flavors, textures, and that smoky aroma has always kept me coming back for more.
So, join me as we dive into this culinary adventure. We’ll explore what makes Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket remarkable, step through the recipe together, and share tips to help you replicate this experience right in your kitchen.
What is Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket?
Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket is more than a sandwich; it’s a flavorful experience. The brisket is slow-smoked for hours, allowing the meat to soak up a rich tapestry of flavors from the smoke and seasoning.
It’s piled high on a roll, often featuring a slice of aged Gouda and crispy onion tanglers for that perfect crunch. Every bite is an explosion of taste, with smokiness embracing the meat, the richness of cheese, and the delightful crunch of toppings.
Why Does This Recipe Work?
When exploring the merits of recreating this dish, it’s evident why it stands out. Here are four reasons to embrace this recipe:
1. Tender, Flavorful Meat: The primary star of this dish is the brisket itself. Slow cooking brings out the natural flavors and tenderness. As a result, you’ll end up with meat that practically melts in your mouth.
2. Balanced Flavors: Combining sweet, smoky, and savory elements creates a delightful balance. The BBQ sauce adds sweetness and depth, while the Worcestershire sauce provides that umami punch.
3. Customizable Ingredients: You can play around with the ingredients! Want a spicier kick? Toss in some hot sauce. Prefer a different cheese? Swap it out with your favorite. This recipe allows you to make it your own.
4. Simple Steps, Maximum Impact: You don’t need to be a culinary wizard to nail this recipe. The steps are straightforward. Anyone can pull this together without drowning in complex instructions.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket
Gathering ingredients can sometimes feel daunting. Don’t worry! Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Roll:
- 1 low-calorie awesome roll
- 4 oz smoked brisket
- 1 slice aged Gouda cheese
- 3 crispy onion tanglers
- Mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
- BBQ sauce of your choice
For the Brisket:
- 3 lbs beef brisket
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon seasoned meat tenderizer
- 2 tablespoons liquid hickory smoke
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 freezer bag (for marinating)
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (adds a tangy twist)
- 1 cup Dinosaur BBQ sauce (or your preferred brand)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for depth of flavor)
How to Make Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket?
Now, let’s get into the fun part! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this dish deliciously memorable.
Step 1: Prepare the Brisket
Start by trimming any excess fat from the brisket. You want it lean, but you also want enough fat to keep it moist during cooking.
Step 2: Season the Meat
In a bowl, mix the celery salt, garlic salt, seasoned salt, and meat tenderizer. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the brisket. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours or, if time permits, overnight.
Step 3: Marinating
Put the seasoned brisket in a freezer bag. Add liquid hickory smoke, Worcestershire sauce, water, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika. Seal the bag and massage the mixture into the meat. Refrigerate it again for another few hours.
Step 4: Cooking the Brisket
Preheat your smoker or slow cooker. If you’re using a smoker, set it to 225°F. Place the marinated brisket directly on the grill and smoke for around 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches about 190°F. If using a slow cooker, let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Step 5: Building Your Sandwich
Once your brisket is ready, remove it from heat and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. Slice it thinly against the grain. Toast your low-calorie roll, layer it with brisket, aged Gouda, and crispy onion tanglers. Drizzle BBQ sauce over the top or add mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier sandwich.
Step 6: Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors and textures!
Tips for Making Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket
Even with the best recipes, a few extra nuggets of wisdom can make all the difference. Here are some tips I’ve learned along the way:
- Rest Your Meat: Allowing the brisket to rest after cooking is crucial for juiciness. It locks in flavor and moisture.
- Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain ensures tender bites. It makes a big difference in texture.
- Experiment with Sauces: Everyone has their favorite BBQ sauce. Don’t hesitate to explore and find what works best for your palate!
- Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer. Keeping an eye on temperatures will give you the best results.
- Stay Patient: Good things come to those who wait. Slow cooking may take a while, but it’s worth every minute!
Nutrition Information
For those mindful of their diet, here’s a rough breakdown of what to expect from a serving of this recipe (excluding sides):
- Calories: Around 450
- Protein: 30g
- Total Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
Keep in mind that these numbers may change based on the specific ingredients and brands you use.
How to Store the Leftovers?
Leftovers can be a lifesaver. After enjoying the sandwich, let any remaining brisket cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to five days. You can also freeze it for up to three months. Just make sure to portion it out for easy reheating.
Recommended Side Dishes for Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket
Enhancing your meal includes consideration of side dishes. Here are some of my favorites that perfectly pair with the brisket:
1. Classic Coleslaw
This crunchy mix of cabbage and carrots adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the brisket. Toss in a bit of apple cider vinegar for zing.
2. Baked Beans
The slight sweetness of baked beans harmonizes beautifully with smoky brisket. It’s comforting and hearty.
3. Grilled Corn On The Cob
Sweet corn brings a delightful crispness to your meal. Slather it in butter and sprinkle some smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
4. Macaroni and Cheese
Rich and creamy, this combination is unforgettable! It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that complements the full flavors of brisket.
Substitute Options for Ingredients
You might find yourself short on a few items. No worries—here are some good substitutes to consider:
1. Liquid Hickory Smoke
If you don’t have this, you could use a smoked paprika or mesquite smoke powder for smoky flavor.
2. Aged Gouda Cheese
Try sharp cheddar or pepper jack for a similar, melty experience but with a different flavor profile.
3. BBQ Sauce
Feel free to substitute with homemade BBQ sauce or other store brands. Just ensure they match your flavor preference.
4. Worcestershire Sauce
If unavailable, soy sauce mixed with a splash of vinegar can work in a pinch.
Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket Recipe
Equipment
- smoker or slow cooker
Ingredients
- 1 low-calorie awesome roll
- 4 oz smoked brisket
- 1 slice of aged Gouda cheese
- 3 crispy onion tanglers
- Mayonnaise optional, for extra creaminess
- BBQ sauce your preferred choice
- 3 lbs beef brisket
- 1 teaspoon celery salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 teaspoon seasoned salt
- 1 teaspoon seasoned meat tenderizer
- 2 tablespoons liquid hickory smoke
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 freezer bag for marinating
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist
- 1 cup Dinosaur BBQ sauce or your preferred BBQ sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor
Instructions
- Start by trimming any excess fat from the brisket. You want it lean, but you also want enough fat to keep it moist during cooking.
- In a bowl, mix the celery salt, garlic salt, seasoned salt, and meat tenderizer. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the brisket. Allow it to marinate in the refrigerator for at least two hours or, if time permits, overnight.
- Put the seasoned brisket in a freezer bag. Add liquid hickory smoke, Worcestershire sauce, water, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika. Seal the bag and massage the mixture into the meat. Refrigerate it again for another few hours.
- Preheat your smoker or slow cooker. If you’re using a smoker, set it to 225°F. Place the marinated brisket directly on the grill and smoke for around 8-10 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches about 190°F. If using a slow cooker, let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Once your brisket is ready, remove it from heat and let it rest for at least 30 minutes. Slice it thinly against the grain. Toast your low-calorie roll, layer it with brisket, aged Gouda, and crispy onion tanglers. Drizzle BBQ sauce over the top or add mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier sandwich.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the burst of flavors and textures!
Notes
- Rest Your Meat: Allowing the brisket to rest after cooking is crucial for juiciness. It locks in flavor and moisture.
- Slice Against the Grain: Cutting against the grain ensures tender bites. It makes a big difference in texture.
- Experiment with Sauces: Everyone has their favorite BBQ sauce. Don’t hesitate to explore and find what works best for your palate!
- Monitor Temperature: Use a meat thermometer. Keeping an eye on temperatures will give you the best results.
- Stay Patient: Good things come to those who wait. Slow cooking may take a while, but it’s worth every minute!
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Recreating the experience of Arby’s Smokehouse Brisket in your kitchen is a delightful journey. Each layer—from the seasoning to the slow cooking—brings a world of flavor to your table.
Pair it with some crispy, fresh sides, and you have a meal fit for a gathering or a quiet night at home. So fire up that grill or slow cooker and dive into this smoky goodness. You won’t regret it! Enjoy every juicy bite.
