California Brisket Sandwich

Ingredients

In this California adaptation of the Texas Brisket Sandwich, we incorporate the flavors and ingredients commonly found in California cuisine. The original sandwich is typically served with barbecue sauce, but in this version, we replace it with a tangy avocado-cilantro spread to add a refreshing twist. Additionally, we include fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and pickled red onions to enhance the sandwich's freshness and provide a vibrant crunch. We alse have the original recipe for Texas Brisket Sandwich, so you can check it out.

• 1.5 pounds (680g) beef brisket 1.5 pounds (680g) beef brisket
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
• 1 teaspoon (5g) salt 1 teaspoon (5g) salt
• 1 teaspoon (2g) black pepper 1 teaspoon (2g) black pepper
• 1 teaspoon (2g) smoked paprika 1 teaspoon (2g) smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon (2g) garlic powder 1 teaspoon (2g) garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon (2g) onion powder 1 teaspoon (2g) onion powder
• 1 teaspoon (2g) cumin 1 teaspoon (2g) cumin
• 1 avocado 1 avocado
• 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped 1/4 cup (15g) fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) lime juice 1 tablespoon (15ml) lime juice
• 4 brioche buns 4 brioche buns
• 4 lettuce leaves 4 lettuce leaves
• 2 tomatoes, sliced 2 tomatoes, sliced
• 1/2 cup (80g) pickled red onions 1/2 cup (80g) pickled red onions

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 550 kcal / 2300 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 32g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 35g, 6g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. 2.
   In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin to create a spice rub.
3. 3.
   Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, ensuring it is evenly coated.
4. 4.
   Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on all sides until browned.
5. 5.
   Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
6. 6.
   While the brisket is cooking, prepare the avocado-cilantro spread. In a bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice and chopped cilantro until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. 7.
   Once the brisket is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then, shred the brisket using two forks.
8. 8.
   Toast the brioche buns lightly.
9. 9.
   To assemble the sandwiches, spread the avocado-cilantro spread on the bottom half of each bun. Top with shredded brisket, lettuce, tomato slices, and pickled red onions. Cover with the top half of the bun.
10. 10.
    Serve the California Brisket Sandwiches immediately and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Avocado — Choose ripe avocados for a creamy texture. If they are not ripe enough, place them in a paper bag with a banana or apple to speed up the ripening process.
• Brisket — Opt for a well-marbled brisket for the best flavor and tenderness. Trim any excess fat before cooking.
• Pickled red onions — If you don't have pickled red onions, you can make your own by thinly slicing red onions and marinating them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt for at least 30 minutes.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra smoky flavor, you can add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the spice rub before applying it to the brisket.
• If you prefer a spicier sandwich, add a few slices of jalapeno or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the avocado-cilantro spread.
• To save time, you can prepare the avocado-cilantro spread and pickled red onions in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to use.
• If you don't have an oven-safe skillet, you can transfer the seared brisket to a baking dish before roasting it in the oven.
• Serve the sandwich with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the California Brisket Sandwiches with a side of coleslaw and a pickle spear for a classic deli-style experience. For a lighter option, pair it with a mixed greens salad dressed with a citrus vinaigrette.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, you can garnish the sandwiches with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a slice of lime. Serve them on a wooden cutting board or a rustic platter to showcase the sandwich's rustic charm.