Slow Cooked Beef Brisket – Tender, Soul-Warming Perfection

why make this recipe

Slow Cooked Beef Brisket is a delightful dish that warms your soul and fills your home with an irresistible aroma. It’s perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or a cozy family dinner. Cooking the brisket low and slow makes it extremely tender and flavorful, ensuring every bite melts in your mouth. Plus, the ingredients are simple and easy to find, making this recipe accessible for anyone looking to impress their guests or enjoy a comforting meal.

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how to make Slow Cooked Beef Brisket

Ingredients:

• 4–5 lb (1.8–2.3 kg) beef brisket, fat cap trimmed to about 1/4 inch
• 2 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1 1/2 cups low-sodium beef broth (use gluten-free if needed)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 bay leaves
• Optional: 1/2 tsp liquid smoke or 1 tsp espresso powder for depth

Directions:

1. Pat the brisket dry and trim the fat cap to about 1/4 inch. Mix the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, and thyme in a bowl. Rub this mixture all over the brisket.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for 3–4 minutes per side until deeply browned. Transfer it to a slow cooker or Dutch oven.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in the smashed garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar; simmer for 1 minute. Pour this mixture over the brisket and add the bay leaves.
4. For slow cooking: Cook on Low for 8–10 hours or High for 5–6 hours until fork-tender. For oven baking: Cover the Dutch oven tightly and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours.
5. Once cooked, let the brisket rest for 20 minutes on a cutting board, tented with foil. Strain the cooking liquid and discard the bay leaves. Reduce the liquid on the stove for 8–12 minutes until it forms a glossy gravy.
6. Slice the brisket against the grain into 1/4-inch slices or shred it. Serve with warm gravy and onions.

how to serve Slow Cooked Beef Brisket

Slow Cooked Beef Brisket is best served warm with a generous drizzle of the glossy gravy and sautéed onions on top. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. Add a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.

how to store Slow Cooked Beef Brisket

Leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep the gravy separate and store it in its own container. You can also freeze the leftover brisket and gravy for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or on the stovetop until heated through.

tips to make Slow Cooked Beef Brisket

• Make sure to rub the seasoning mixture generously over the brisket; this enhances the flavor.
• Searing the brisket before slow cooking helps to lock in the juices and develops a richer taste.
• For extra depth of flavor, consider adding the optional liquid smoke or espresso powder.
• Always slice the brisket against the grain for the most tender result.

variation

You can add carrots and potatoes to the slow cooker for a complete one-pot meal. Just place them around the brisket before cooking. You can also experiment with different spices or add a splash of your favorite beer to the cooking liquid for a unique taste.

FAQs

1. Can I cook brisket in an oven instead of a slow cooker?
Yes, you can bake the brisket in a Dutch oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 hours until it is tender.

2. How do I know when the brisket is done?
The brisket is done when it is fork-tender, meaning you can easily pull it apart with a fork.

3. Can I use a different cut of beef?
While brisket is best for this recipe, you can use other slow-cooking cuts like chuck roast or round. Cooking times may vary slightly.

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