WHERE DOES BRISKET COME FROM
Brisket comes from the lower breast section of the cow and can weigh anywhere from 8 to 20 pounds. This large boneless chunk of meat contains a considerable amount of tough connective tissue. Thus, why many choose to tenderize that tissue down by cooking it low and slow. WHAT ARE THE PARTS OF A BRISKET Your brisket's anatomy consists of two main areas-the flat and the point. Most briskets available for purchase will be the flat. The flat is leaner and tends to be a more desirable cut because it's easier for cooking, while the point is a fattier piece of meat. But brisket veterans will often tackle what is known as a full or whole packer-a cut of brisket with both the point and flat intact. Outside of the full packer's high price tag and extended cook time, the end result is always worth the wait. WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT GRADES OF BRISKET When purchasing a brisket, you'll find there are three USDA grades. Select is the lowest grade, you'll find these at your local grocery store or a restaurant chain. Choice brings more flavor and tenderness and can be found at most supermarkets and butchers. Prime is the highest grade of meat. When comparing the three you will notice an increase of tenderness, juiciness, marbling, and flavor. This is in reference to the meat's fat content. As you could have guessed, choice has a lower fat content than prime. You can typically find Prime at upscale steakhouses and via request from your butcher.