The Perfect Brisket & The Secret to Our Sides: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at Briskets & Gravy

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The Perfect Brisket: Our Smoking Process

The brisket is the heart and soul of our food truck. It's what draws people in and keeps them coming back for more. But to create that melt-in-your-mouth, smoky perfection, it takes more than just a grill. It’s all about patience, precision, and the right technique.

Step 1: Sourcing Quality Meat

It all starts with choosing the best cut of meat. We work with trusted local suppliers to source prime-grade brisket, ensuring the highest quality from the start. The marbling and tenderness of the meat are key to achieving the perfect texture once smoked.

Step 2: The Rub

Our brisket rub is simple but effective. We use a combination of salt, pepper, and a secret blend of spices that enhances the natural flavor of the meat. This is generously applied, and the brisket is left to sit, allowing the spices to meld with the meat.

Step 3: Smoking Low and Slow

Now comes the most crucial part: the smoking process. We slow-smoke our brisket at 225°F for hours. This low-and-slow method allows the meat to absorb the smoky flavors, while breaking down the fat and collagen, making it tender and juicy. We use a combination of oak and hickory wood, which adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

Step 4: Let It Rest

Once our brisket is perfectly smoked, it’s important to let it rest. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and moisture.

Step 5: The Perfect Slice

Finally, we slice our brisket against the grain to ensure a tender, easy-to-chew experience. With the right balance of smokiness, tenderness, and flavor, we serve it up on a plate or sandwich that’ll make your taste buds sing.

What Goes Into Our Sides? The Secret to Southern Comfort Food

At Briskets & Gravy, the sides are just as important as the brisket. The right side dish can elevate a meal and add layers of flavor and texture. Our Southern-inspired sides are made with the same care and quality that goes into our brisket, and they’re the perfect complement to any BBQ plate.

Mac and Cheese: Creamy and Comforting

Our mac and cheese is a fan favorite, and for good reason. We start with a creamy cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar and a little Gruyère for extra richness. The macaroni is cooked just right, and the whole thing is baked to perfection with a golden, crispy top. The result is a creamy, cheesy indulgence that perfectly balances the smoky brisket.

Collard Greens: A Southern Classic

Collard greens are a staple in Southern cooking, and we treat them with the respect they deserve. We cook our collards slowly, simmering them with ham hocks, garlic, and a secret blend of spices until they’re tender and full of flavor. The smoky, savory taste of the ham hocks infuses the greens, making them an irresistible, comforting side.

Cornbread: Buttery and Sweet

Our cornbread is moist, buttery, and just the right amount of sweet. Made from a blend of cornmeal and a touch of sugar, it’s baked to golden perfection and served warm. The slightly crispy exterior gives way to a soft, fluffy interior that’s perfect for soaking up every bit of brisket juice.

Coleslaw: A Fresh, Tangy Contrast

To balance the richness of the brisket and sides, we offer a tangy, crunchy coleslaw. Made from fresh shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing, this side adds a refreshing contrast to the heavier dishes. The slight tanginess and crunch make it the perfect palate cleanser.

Why These Dishes Matter

At Briskets & Gravy, we believe that every meal should be more than just food—it should be an experience. That’s why we pay attention to every detail, from the way we smoke our brisket to how we craft each side. It’s about delivering comfort, flavor, and quality in every bite, and that’s what keeps our customers coming back for more.

We’re proud of the process we’ve perfected, and we love sharing it with the Portland community. Whether you’re stopping by our food truck for a quick bite or catering your next big event, we promise that the flavors you love are always made with care, and always served with heart.