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Smokey and the Bandit’s Diablo Sandwich

01/10/2024|,
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“Lemme have a Diablo Sammich and a Dr. Pepper – and make it fast. I’m in a . . . hurry.” – Buford T. Justice, Sheriff (played by Jackie Gleason).

Sometimes, when Heath and I get together, we like to reminisce about our favorite old movies. Of course, Smokey and the Bandit ranks way up there. We got to thinking – what was in that Diablo sandwich that Sheriff Justice wanted so bad? Well, we decided we’d make a sandwich worthy of the name “Diablo.” For those of y’all that don’t live so close to the border, Diablo means “devil” in Spanish – any sandwich fit for a devil must be HOT.

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What We Know about the Diablo Sandwich

One – we know that the Diablo sandwich is made of loose meat, and it has a sauce that will cause a stain on a shirt.

Two – it gives Sheriff Justice heartburn. That’s the second indication besides the name “diablo” that this sandwich has some kick to it!

The Diablo Sandwich

We decided to go with shredded brisket, but you can use any shredded bbq you’ve got. Here’s the recipe for the best brisket you’ll ever have: Brisket Smoked Right! Remember to smoke it in a foil pan so that all of the fat that renders stays with the meat. This way you get moist, delicious brisket every time.

Tip: Save excess fat to use in stock or to flavor stews.

Cowboy Up Your Sandwich!

Whether you’re using leftover shredded bbq or making a brisket from scratch, what’s important is that you pick a sauce with some kick! We used about a cup of Red River Mud BBQ Sauce and added about 3 tablespoons of Adobo sauce from canned “chipotle chilies in adobo sauce.” That sauce has been marinating some roasted jalapenos since it was sealed so it’s guaranteed to give you some zing and some delicious flavor.

Tip: Once the bbq is sauced up, heat it in the smoker, uncovered, with some cherry and oak wood to boost the flavor.

Add Sliced Hot Links

To take this sandwich to the next level, add some smoked hot links. I like J.C. Potter Hot Links but you can use any hot link you want. A jalapeno cheddar sausage would also taste mighty good on a Diablo sandwich. Heat them up on the smoker next to the brisket, and you’ll get some extra smoke flavor for the sandwich.

Slice the hot links round like pickles. Add them on top of the brisket.

Spread the buns with butter and toast them, then add the brisket. Top with hot links, pickles, red onion, and some Sweet & Spicy Mustard. The full printable recipe is right below, so enjoy!

Kent Rollins remake of the Smokey and the Bandit Diablo Sandwich

Side Dish Ideas for the Diablo Sandwich

More Amazing Sandwiches

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A close up of a sandwich on a cutting board
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Diablo Sandwich – Cowboy Kent Rollins

Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 6 sandwiches

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Preheat the smoker to 350 degrees F.
  • Mix the shredded meat, adobo sauce and BBQ sauce together to your desired taste and consistency. Place the mixture into a foil pan and cover with foil. Place the meat on the indirect side of the smoker, or grill, to warm, stirring occasionally.
  • Place the hot links on the indirect side of the smoker. Add a few chunks of cherry and oak woods to the coals and smoke for about 15 to 20 minutes. Move the hot links over the direct heat for about 4 minutes, or until lightly charred. Remove and cut into round slices.
  • Meanwhile, butter the undersides of the buns and toast.
  • To assemble the sandwiches: Add a generous helping of the brisket to each bottom bun, top with cut hot links. Spread the top bun with Kent’s Sweet and Spicy mustard and top with red onions, if using. Serve immediately.

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