Description
Greetings, fellow food enthusiasts! Are you ready to discover the magic of a classic Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe? This dish is perfect for anyone who appreciates a hearty, flavorful meal that melts in your mouth. Brisket is a unique cut of meat that, when cooked slowly, transforms into a tender, juicy masterpiece. If you’re craving comfort food that’s both rich in tradition and easy to prepare, you’re in the right place!
Ingredients
- Beef Brisket – 4-5 pounds, trimmed
- Kosher Salt – 2 teaspoons
- Black Pepper – 1 teaspoon, freshly ground
- Smoked Paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Onion Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Garlic Powder – 1/2 teaspoon
- Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons
- Large Onion – 1, sliced
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Beef Broth – 1 cup
- Balsamic Vinegar or Red Wine – 1/2 cup (for a richer flavor)
- Brown Sugar – 1/4 cup
- Tomato Paste – 2 tablespoons
- Worcestershire Sauce – 2 tablespoons
- Bay Leaves – 2
- Fresh Thyme Sprigs
Optional Substitutions:
- For a gluten-free option, replace Worcestershire sauce with tamari.
- Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a slightly different flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brisket
Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Rub this seasoning mix generously over both sides of the brisket.
Step 2: Sear the Brisket
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for about 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms. This step locks in the flavors and juices.
Step 3: Prepare the Slow Cooker Sauce
Using the same skillet, add sliced onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet’s bottom. Then, add balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Allow this to simmer for 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step 4: Set Up the Slow Cooker
Place the seared brisket in the slow cooker and pour the skillet sauce over it. Toss in bay leaves and a few thyme sprigs. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.
Step 5: Serve
Once the brisket is fork-tender, remove it from the slow cooker. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice against the grain. Strain the sauce if desired, and serve the brisket with this rich, flavorful gravy.
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
Buy Now →Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- For Extra Flavor: Searing the meat adds depth, so don’t skip this step.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Add a spoonful of honey or maple syrup to the sauce if you prefer a sweeter profile.
- For Thicker Sauce: Whisk a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the juices. Set the slow cooker to high and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.