Brisket Per Person Calculator

Planning for the right amount of brisket for a gathering is important to avoid running out of food or wasting resources. This calculator estimates how much brisket you need based on the number of people and your preferred serving size per person.

Typical Serving Sizes

A general recommendation is around 0.5 lbs (or 8 ounces) of cooked brisket per person. However, for gatherings with big eaters or fewer side dishes, you might consider increasing the serving size to 0.75 lbs or even 1 lb per person.

Brisket Shrinkage

Keep in mind that brisket loses approximately 30-40% of its weight during cooking due to fat and moisture loss. For example, if you need 10 lbs of cooked brisket, you might need to start with around 14-16 lbs of raw brisket.

Example Calculation

For 10 people with a serving size of 0.5 lbs per person:
\[ \text{Total Brisket Needed} = 10 \times 0.5 = 5 \text{ lbs} \]

For 10 people with a serving size of 0.75 lbs per person:
\[ \text{Total Brisket Needed} = 10 \times 0.75 = 7.5 \text{ lbs} \]

Usage Scenarios

This calculator is useful for planning BBQs, parties, or any event where brisket is the main dish. Adjust the serving size based on the appetite of your guests and other dishes being served.

Common FAQs

1. How much brisket should I cook per person?

   • A typical serving size is 0.5 lbs per person, but you may want to adjust based on your crowd.

2. Should I account for brisket shrinkage?

   • Yes, raw brisket typically shrinks by 30-40% during cooking, so plan accordingly.

3. What if I have leftovers?

   • Leftover brisket can be used in sandwiches, tacos, or frozen for future meals. It’s better to have too much than too little!