BBQ Tandoori Brisket with Masala Mac & Cheese
A fusion of American BBQ brisket with Indian tandoori spices, served with creamy mac & cheese infused with garam masala and smoked cheddar.
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Ingredients

For the Tandoori BBQ Brisket:

•    1.5 kg (3 lbs) beef brisket
•    1 cup plain yogurt
•    2 tbsp tandoori masala
•    1 tbsp smoked paprika
•    1 tbsp cumin
•    1 tbsp garlic powder
•    1 tbsp ginger powder
•    1 tsp cayenne pepper
•    2 tbsp lemon juice
•    2 tbsp olive oil
•    Salt & black pepper
•    ½ cup BBQ sauce (use a smoky or spicy variety)

For the Masala Mac & Cheese:

•    2 cups elbow macaroni
•    2 tbsp butter
•    1 tbsp all-purpose flour
•    2 cups whole milk
•    1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
•    ½ cup smoked cheddar cheese, shredded
•    ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
•    1 tsp garam masala
•    ½ tsp turmeric
•    ½ tsp mustard powder
•    ½ tsp chili flakes
•    Salt & black pepper
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Instructions

Tandoori BBQ Brisket:

1.    Marinate the Brisket: In a bowl, mix yogurt, tandoori masala, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, ginger powder, cayenne, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Coat the brisket and marinate for at least 6 hours (preferably overnight).
2.    Slow Cook or Smoke:
o    Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place brisket in a roasting pan, cover with foil, and cook for 4-5 hours.
o    Smoker: Set smoker to 250°F (120°C) and cook brisket for 6-8 hours until tender.
3.    Glaze with BBQ Sauce: Brush with BBQ sauce and broil/grill for 5 minutes to caramelize. Slice and serve.

Masala Mac & Cheese:

1.    Cook macaroni until al dente, drain, and set aside.
2.    In a saucepan, melt butter, add flour, and whisk to make a roux.
3.    Gradually add milk, whisking to thicken.
4.    Stir in garam masala, turmeric, mustard powder, and chili flakes.
5.    Add cheeses and whisk until melted.
6.    Mix in the cooked pasta and season with salt & black pepper.
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Serving Suggestion:

•    Plate a serving of Masala Mac & Cheese.
•    Top with slices of Tandoori BBQ Brisket.
•    Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime.
•    Serve with pickled onions or a side of coleslaw.
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🔥 Why It Works?

•    The smoky BBQ flavors complement the bold Indian spices.
•    The creamy, garam masala-infused mac & cheese balances the heat of the brisket.
•    A perfect mix of comfort food and spice-packed goodness!