Bear's Choice from Black Bear Diner features a hearty blend of tender smoked brisket, melted cheddar cheese, and tangy barbecue sauce layered on a toasted bun, delivering a savory and satisfying smoky flavor with a perfectly crisp bite.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Toaster or toaster oven
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Tongs
- Ladle or spoon (for barbecue sauce)
- Cheese slicer or grater (if not pre-sliced)
- Spatula
- Serving plate
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked beef brisket
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 burger buns
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 lb (450g) smoked brisket
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Use high-quality smoked beef brisket for the most authentic and tender flavor in your Bear's Choice sandwich. Choose sharp cheddar cheese that melts well to enhance the savory taste, and opt for fresh, soft hamburger buns toasted to a perfect crispness. You can adjust the barbecue sauce quantity based on your preferred tanginess and smokiness, making sure it complements rather than overpowers the brisket. Buttering the buns before toasting adds a rich texture and helps achieve the signature golden crust. Your homemade Bear's Choice from Black Bear Diner copycat menu will deliver a satisfying smoky bite that rivals the original.
Instructions
- Slice the smoked brisket using a chef’s knife on a cutting board.
- Preheat the grill or griddle.
- Warm the brisket slices on the grill or griddle using tongs.
- Toast the burger buns in a toaster or toaster oven; optionally, spread butter on buns before toasting.
- Place a slice of cheddar cheese on each portion of warmed brisket; allow to melt slightly.
- Add a generous spoonful of barbecue sauce over the cheese-topped brisket using a ladle or spoon.
- Using a spatula, assemble brisket, cheese, and sauce onto the bottom half of each toasted bun.
- Top with the other half of each bun.
- Transfer each sandwich to a serving plate.
Substitution
Bear's Choice from Black Bear Diner copycat menu combines tender smoked brisket, melted cheddar cheese, and rich barbecue sauce on a toasted bun for a smoky and flavorful bite. If smoked brisket is unavailable, you can substitute with slow-cooked beef brisket or smoked pulled pork for a similar texture and smoky taste. Using a grill or griddle helps achieve a perfectly crisp bun, but a toaster oven also works well to lightly toast your buns. Make sure to use sharp knives and tongs to handle the brisket carefully without shredding it too much. Your barbecue sauce can be adjusted in sweetness or spiciness to suit your taste preferences, enhancing the overall savory profile.
Tips
Ensure the smoked brisket is sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness and easier biting. Toasting the buns with butter adds a rich flavor and prevents sogginess when layered with barbecue sauce. Use tongs to gently warm the brisket on the grill or griddle without drying it out, maintaining its smoky juiciness. When assembling, your cheese should slightly melt over the brisket to create a creamy texture that balances the tangy sauce.
Nutritions
Bear's Choice provides a rich source of protein from the smoked beef brisket, supporting muscle repair and growth. The cheddar cheese adds calcium and vitamin D, important for bone health, while the barbecue sauce contributes antioxidants from its tomato base. Your meal includes healthy fats from the butter used to toast the buns, enhancing flavor and satiety. This combination delivers a balanced intake of macronutrients with a satisfying smoky taste.
Storage
Store leftover Bear's Choice sandwiches in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. For best results, consume within 2-3 days and reheat thoroughly in a toaster oven or on a grill to preserve the smoky flavor and melted cheddar texture. Your brisket and barbecue sauce will retain their quality longer when stored separately, allowing you to reassemble the sandwich after reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, substitute smoked brisket with pulled pork or smoked turkey to change the protein while maintaining a smoky flavor profile. Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack or smoked gouda to introduce a different cheese flavor and texture. Instead of toasting buns in a toaster oven, grill them directly on the griddle with a brushed layer of garlic butter for extra aroma and crispness. You can also enhance your barbecue sauce with a splash of apple cider vinegar or a hint of honey to adjust sweetness and tanginess according to your taste.
Allergies
Bear's Choice from Black Bear Diner contains common allergens such as dairy from the cheddar cheese and butter, which may affect individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The smoked beef brisket and barbecue sauce may also pose risks for those with meat or ingredient-specific sensitivities. Always check ingredient labels and consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about potential allergic reactions to your meal.
Why this recipe?
Black Bear Diner's Bear's Choice menu features hearty, classic American comfort foods known for their generous portions and rich flavors, making it a favorite among diners seeking satisfying meals. The menu offers a variety of options such as savory breakfasts, juicy burgers, and homestyle dinners that deliver nostalgic taste experiences. You will appreciate the menu's balance of traditional recipes and bold seasonings that make each dish uniquely memorable. Trying to make a copycat version allows you to recreate the comforting, diner-style dishes at home while customizing flavors to your personal preferences.