What is Beef Brisket Called in the Grocery Store? A Guide to Meat Labeling
Confused by the name for beef brisket at the store? Don’t fret, you’re in the right spot! Learn all about finding beef brisket and get handy tips on where to locate it in the supermarket.
In addition, we’ll provide tips on how to choose the best cut of brisket and how to buy it at your favorite grocery store. With our expertise and guidance, you’ll soon be an expert on beef brisket.
What’s A Beef Brisket?
According to Chef Tom Colicchio, James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur, brisket is a complex cut of meat that requires a good understanding of its anatomy and cooking techniques to turn out a delicious result.
Furthermore, the different labels, such as ‘packer brisket,’ ‘whole brisket,’ or ‘flat cut brisket,’ refer to different portions of the cut and can impact the cooking time, texture, and flavor of the final dish [1].
Names of Beef Brisket
Flat Cut
This is the most common cut of brisket. It is a thin, rectangular piece of meat containing the brisket muscle.
Deckle
The fatty, triangular end of the brisket is closest to the end of the brisket.
Point Cut
The thick, marbled end of the brisket contains the fattiest flavor.
Fat Cap
This is the layer of fat that sits on top of the brisket.
Packer Cut
This is the whole brisket, including the Point Cut and the Flat Cut, with a thick layer of fat still on it.
What Does Brisket Look Like in the Grocery Store?
At the grocery store, brisket typically comes as a large, flat cut of beef with a thick layer of fat on one side.
It is usually an inexpensive cut of meat because it requires long, slow cooking to become tender.
“Brisket is one nasty cut of meat. It will fight you ferociously as you try to tame it. Once you do, though, it lays down like a cuddly puppy and rewards you with a big, delicious hug.”
Danny Meyer, Restaurateur
You can also find pre-marinated and smoked brisket, which is ready to cook and has a smoky, savory flavor.
Find out the white stuff on ground beef after cooking.
Other Names of Brisket Around the World
Beef brisket is a cut of beef enjoyed around the world in a variety of dishes. In Germany, the cut is known as “braten”, while in France, it is called palette de boeuf.
Italians refer to the cut as “petto di manzo,” while in Brazil, it is known as “maminha.” In Mexico, brisket is referred to as “falda de res,” while in Argentina, it is “tapa de asado.” [2]
Uses for Beef Brisket
Brisket has a rich flavor and is best cooked slowly at low heat for tenderness. It is great for pulled beef sandwiches, tacos, stews, and soups.
Choose from grilling, braising, smoking, roasting, or slow cooking to create a delicious and juicy meal.
How to Choose the Right Brisket at the Grocery Store
Selecting the right brisket at the grocery store is crucial for a flavorful and tender meal. The first thing to check is the color—fresh brisket should have a deep red hue, indicating good quality. Avoid any meat that looks grayish or has excessive liquid in the package, as these are signs of aging or poor storage. Additionally, ensure the packaging is intact and free of leaks.
Marbling plays a significant role in the brisket’s taste and tenderness. Look for fine streaks of white fat running through the meat. More marbling generally means a juicier brisket, especially for slow cooking. However, too much exterior fat may require trimming.
When choosing between a whole packer brisket, flat cut, or point cut, consider your cooking method. A whole brisket is ideal for smoking, while a flat cut is leaner and better for slicing.
| Cut Type | Fat Content | Best Cooking Method |
| Whole Brisket | Moderate to High | Smoking, slow roasting |
| Flat Cut | Lean to Moderate | Braising, slicing for sandwiches |
| Point Cut | High | Pulled brisket, stews |
Tips & Tricks When Buying Beef Brisket at the Grocery Store
- Inspect the brisket for marbling, the fat that runs through the meat.
- Choose a brisket with a layer of fat on top for maximum flavor.
- Check the packaging for any signs of damage or excess liquid.
- Select a brisket with a deep red color for the best flavor.
- If available, buy USDA Choice or Prime beef for the best flavor.
- Ask your butcher for advice on selecting the best brisket.
| Also read: Do You Use A Binder For Brisket? |
FAQs on Naming Beef Brisket in the Grocery Store
What is the butcher’s name for beef brisket?
At the butcher’s, beef brisket is often referred to simply as brisket.
What is brisket labeled as?
Briskets labeled “brisket’ are likely just the flat portion or a piece.
What cut of meat is like brisket?
Similarly, to brisket, flank steak is a popular cut of meat. It comes from the same part of the cow, the abdominal area, and is known for its robust flavor.
What is the best cut of brisket to buy?
The best cut of brisket to buy is a whole-packer brisket, which includes both the flat and the point. This cut offers excellent marbling, allowing for more flavor and tenderness when cooked.
What is a poor man’s brisket?
A poor man’s brisket is a cheaper cut of beef, usually taken from the shoulder or second cut of the brisket. It is usually tougher than other cuts and needs to be cooked slowly and moistly to get tender.
Where can I buy beef brisket?
Beef brisket can be purchased at most large grocery stores or butcher shops. In addition, many online retailers also offer briskets for sale.
The Bottom Line
Brisket is a cut of beef from the chest or lower chest of cattle, typically sold as a large, flat cut with a layer of fat.
It’s a versatile meat that can be grilled, smoked, roasted, or slow-cooked, with the best cut being a whole-packer brisket that includes both the flat and the point.
When purchasing brisket, choose one with some marbling, fat mixed in, and a deep red color for the best flavor.
In various parts of the world, brisket is also known as braten, palette de boeuf, petto di manzo, and a few other names.
References:
- https://www.thespruceeats.com/what-is-beef-brisket-p2-1805836
- https://matadornetwork.com
