Buying Whole Brisket Advice

Citizen Q · July 2006

I notice that alot of people here have trouble finding whole packer trim briskets and end up cooking smaller flats. IMO, nothing else in BBQ beats the flavor of brisket cooked whole, a thing that just can't be experienced by cooking a flat. Almost no major supermarkets and few butchers carry packer trims anymore, and although they should be able to order them for you, you'll pay through the nose in time, money and frustration. Wholesale shopping clubs are an alternative source, but are unpredictable and you have to go there to find out what they've got. BJ's in my area carries flats only, and the nearest Costco has packers less than 25% of the time. [p]While there is no substitute for having a good butcher willing to work with you, they are on the verge of extinction and most of us have never had the luxury to begin with. A good supplier and learning some basic meat cutting skills are a good alternative.[p]For those within driving distance of any urban area, check the yellow pages for that city under the headings "Meat - Packers" or "Meat - Wholesale", give them a call and ask if they've got any whole briskets. Now, these are not stores where you can go in and pick through a display case for the perfect cut, but you can go up to the loading dock, ask them to bring out a couple to look at and buy the one you want, CASH & carry at wholesale prices (1.79/lb -Boston).[p]Those that can't find meat packers or wholesalers nearby look under "Meat - Retail" and call down the list to find yourself a good supplier. Or you can try to strike a friendly conversation with the owner, chef or kitchen manager of your favorite restaurant (at a down time) explaining your predicament and see how quickly they offer to throw an order for you on top of their next delivery, at cost. [p]Hope this helps the brisket deficient amongst us.[p]Cheers,
C~Q

Rumrunner · July 2006

Citizen Q, good advice

Buying Whole Brisket Advice

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