Looking for a hearty meal that warms the soul? Beef brisket is the answer! This tender, slow-cooked delight is perfect for family gatherings or a comforting dinner at home. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Imagine the delicious aroma filling your kitchen and the joy on your loved ones’ faces as they dig in. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious beef brisket!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With straightforward ingredients and a slow-cooker, it’s almost foolproof.
- Incredibly Delicious: The spices and slow cooking create a rich flavor that packs a punch.
- Perfect for Gatherings: It’s a crowd-pleaser that feeds a lot of people, making it great for parties or family dinners.
- Comfort Food: This dish brings warmth and satisfaction, perfect for chilly nights.
- Leftover Magic: Enjoy it again in sandwiches, salads, or as a topping for baked potatoes!
Beef brisket stands out with its deliciously seasoned crust and tender interior, making it a dish you’ll want to serve again and again.
Ingredients Needed
To make a flavorful beef brisket, gather the following ingredients:
- For the Brisket:
- 4 lbs beef brisket
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- For the Cooking Liquid:
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
These ingredients combine to create a balanced flavor profile that enhances the brisket beautifully.
How to Make Beef Brisket
- Prep the Brisket: Start by trimming any excess fat from the beef brisket. Pat it dry with paper towels to ensure a nice sear.
- Mix the Seasonings: In a bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar. This spice mixture will build the flavor of the brisket.
- Season the Meat: Rub the spice mix evenly over the brisket, ensuring it’s well-coated for maximum flavor.
- Sear the Brisket: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it gets a nice brown crust. This step locks in the juices and enhances the flavor.
- Set Up for Cooking: Place the brisket in a slow cooker or a roasting pan. Pour the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth over it, then add the apple cider vinegar to balance the flavors.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook the brisket on low for about 8-10 hours. It’s ready when it is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.
- Rest and Slice: After cooking, let the brisket rest for at least 20 minutes. This is crucial for juicy slices. When ready, slice against the grain for the best texture.
Serving and Storage Tips
To serve, arrange the sliced brisket on a platter and drizzle some of the cooking liquid over the top for extra flavor. Pair it with sides like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the brisket back in the oven at a low temperature, or warm it in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Helpful Notes
- Tips for Perfection: Make sure to slice the brisket against the grain to ensure tenderness. This simple technique can make a big difference!
- Variations: You can experiment with different spices like chili powder for a kick or add sliced onions and bell peppers to the slow cooker for an extra layer of flavor.
- Leftover Ideas: Use leftover brisket in tacos, grilled cheese sandwiches, or to top burgers for an extra treat!
Conclusion
This beef brisket recipe is a winner for its simplicity and taste. With easy preparation and a deliciously tender result, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and a star rating below! We’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Don’t forget to share your experience on social media, and feel free to ask, “What variations did you try?” Let us know in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast, but the cooking time may vary. Brisket works best for its tenderness after slow cooking.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Once cooled, you can slice the brisket and store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
How thick should I slice the brisket?
Aim for slices about 1/4 inch thick. This thickness ensures tender bites while allowing for easy chewing. Slicing too thin can make it fall apart.
Print
Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket
- Total Time: 615 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A tender, slow-cooked beef brisket with a seasoned crust, perfect for family gatherings and comfort food.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef brisket
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the beef brisket and pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix together kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and brown sugar.
- Rub the spice mix evenly over the brisket.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the brisket for about 4-5 minutes on each side.
- Place the brisket in a slow cooker or roasting pan. Pour Worcestershire sauce and beef broth over it, and add apple cider vinegar.
- Cover and cook the brisket on low for about 8-10 hours until fork-tender.
- Let the brisket rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Notes
For the best texture, remember to slice the brisket against the grain. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 600 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 70g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
