Are you a fan of slow-cooked, tender meat?
Then you’ve probably heard of beef brisket.
But what do Australians call this delicious cut of meat?
Is it still called brisket, or is there a different name for it down under?
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about beef brisket in Australia, from the different cuts available to the best ways to cook it.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to learn all about this mouth-watering meat.
What Is Beef Brisket Called In Australia?
If you’re wondering what beef brisket is called in Australia, the answer is simple: it’s still called brisket.
Traditionally, brisket refers to a cut of beef, but it can also be made from lamb, veal, or even buffalo. In Australia, brisket generally refers to three cuts of meat: the whole brisket (or breast), the lean point cut, and the navel cut.
It’s worth noting that there are two briskets per animal, accounting for around 7.2% of the carcass. The brisket is derived from the underside chest area between the front legs and is a well-exercised muscle with ample connective tissue.
The Different Cuts Of Beef Brisket In Australia
When it comes to beef brisket in Australia, there are three main cuts to be aware of: the whole brisket (or breast), the lean point cut, and the navel cut.
The whole brisket, also known as the breast, is a large and tough cut of meat that includes both the point and navel cuts. It has a high fat content and is ideal for slow cooking methods such as smoking or braising. This cut is often used in traditional barbecue dishes such as Texas-style brisket.
The lean point cut, also known as the “flat”, is a smaller and leaner cut of meat that comes from the front part of the brisket. It has less fat than the whole brisket and can be cooked using a variety of methods, including roasting, smoking, or braising.
The navel cut, also known as the “plate”, is a fattier section of the brisket that comes from the belly area. It has more connective tissue than the other cuts and requires longer cooking times to break down and tenderize. This cut is often used in dishes such as corned beef or pastrami.
It’s important to note that all three cuts of beef brisket require slow cooking methods to break down the tough connective tissue and create tender, flavorful meat. Whether you’re cooking up a classic barbecue dish or trying out a new recipe, understanding the different cuts of beef brisket can help you choose the right one for your needs.
The History Of Beef Brisket In Australian Cuisine
Beef brisket has been a staple in Australian cuisine for centuries, with a rich history that dates back to the early days of colonization. In the early 1800s, beef was a common source of protein for settlers and was often cooked in large pots over an open fire. The brisket cut was particularly popular due to its affordability and versatility.
During the gold rush era in the mid-1800s, beef brisket became even more popular as it was a cheap and easy source of protein for the miners. It was often served in stews or slow-cooked over an open fire, making it a hearty and filling meal.
In the 20th century, as Australia became more urbanized, beef brisket remained a popular dish, particularly in barbecue culture. Australian barbecue is heavily influenced by American barbecue, with many Australians adopting the Texas-style smoked brisket as their own.
Today, beef brisket is a beloved dish in Australia, with many restaurants and food trucks specializing in slow-cooked barbecue brisket. It is often served with sides such as coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
How To Choose The Best Beef Brisket For Cooking
When it comes to choosing the best beef brisket for cooking, there are several factors to consider.
Firstly, it’s important to choose between Prime or Choice grades of brisket. These grades indicate the quality of the meat and will ensure that you end up with a flavorful and tender final product.
Next, look for a brisket that is between eight to 10 pounds in weight. This size is ideal for most home smokers and can feed a large number of people. Additionally, make sure that the brisket is of roughly equal thickness along all sides, as this will prevent one side from drying out while the other remains undercooked.
When evaluating the briskets at your local butcher, look for a thick, well-marbled cut in a rich reddish-purple hue. The marbling is vital as it’s central to whether the brisket would be juicy, tender, and flavorful. However, unlike a steak, where signs of marbling mean a more flavorful piece of meat, brisket doesn’t show much marbling. Instead, focus on finding a deep, rich red color and “clean-looking fat.”
You’ll also need to decide whether to buy a whole packer or choose the point and/or flat cut separately. The first cut is leaner and will preserve its shape when sliced, making it a good option for those who prefer leaner meat. The second cut is loaded with intramuscular fat that breaks down over cooking time and is an excellent choice for those who love a rich, tender piece of meat that falls apart easily.
Finally, don’t forget to let the meat rest after cooking to ensure juicy meat, whether it’s of the lean or fatty variety. By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to choose the best beef brisket for cooking and impress your family and guests with a delicious meal.
Tips And Tricks For Cooking Beef Brisket In Australia
Cooking beef brisket can be a daunting task, but with the right techniques and tips, you can create a succulent and flavorful dish that will impress your guests. Here are some tips and tricks for cooking beef brisket in Australia:
1. Choose the right cooking vessel: For braising or slow cooking, it is recommended to use a large cast-iron pan or casserole pot. You could even use a slow cooker or a pressure cooker, which cuts down cooking time by three quarters.
2. Season and marinate the meat: Before cooking, season the brisket with your favorite spices and herbs. You can also marinate the meat overnight to infuse more flavor.
3. Cook low and slow: Brisket is a tough cut of meat that needs to be cooked at a low temperature for a long time to break down the connective tissue and become tender. A whole brisket may take up to 4 hours to cook, while a brisket flat or point cut may take 3-3 1/2 hours.
4. Check for doneness: To check if the brisket is done, use a fork to see if it’s fork-tender and still juicy. Overcooking will dry it out, so it’s important to keep an eye on it.
5. Let it rest: Once the brisket is cooked, let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing it across the grain to serve. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
6. Remove excess fat: If you’re cooking a whole brisket, let it cool in the sauce that’s in the pot, cover and refrigerate overnight. The next day, remove all of the solidified fat from the top before slicing it.
7. Substitute cuts: If you can’t find brisket, you can use chuck beef or gravy beef as alternatives, particularly if you’re stewing or braising.
By following these tips and tricks, you can create a delicious and tender beef brisket that will be a hit at any gathering or dinner party.
Popular Beef Brisket Recipes In Australia
Beef brisket is a versatile cut of meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways, making it a popular choice for many Australians. Here are some of the most popular beef brisket recipes in Australia:
1. Slow-Cooked Barbecue Beef Brisket: This recipe involves cooking the brisket low and slow over wood and coals for up to 12 hours. The result is fall-apart tender beef with a smoky flavor that’s perfect for sandwiches or served with sides.
2. Braised Beef Brisket: Braising involves cooking the brisket in liquid for several hours until it becomes tender and flavorful. Recipes like O Tama Carey’s black braised brisket or Tony Tan’s recipe with chili-oil sauce produce spiced, aromatic results that are perfect for a cozy dinner at home.
3. Beef Brisket Nachos: For a crowd-pleasing dish, try making beef brisket nachos. Simply cook the brisket low and slow, shred it, and serve it on top of tortilla chips with melted cheese, salsa, and other toppings of your choice.
No matter how you choose to cook it, beef brisket is a delicious and hearty cut of meat that’s sure to satisfy any carnivorous cravings.
