why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Beef Brisket is a comforting dish that fills your home with mouthwatering aromas while it cooks. This recipe is perfect for busy days since it cooks itself over several hours. The result is a tender, flavorful brisket that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

how to make Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Ingredients:

4-5 pounds beef brisket, trimmed
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar or red wine
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
2 bay leaves
Fresh thyme sprigs

Directions:

Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix together kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Rub this seasoning mix all over the brisket.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for about 3-4 minutes on each side. Transfer the brisket to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, cook the onion and garlic until softened. Pour in the beef broth to deglaze the skillet. Stir in balsamic vinegar (or red wine), brown sugar, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 2 minutes, then pour this mixture over the brisket.
Add bay leaves and thyme. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.
Let the brisket rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with the gravy.

how to serve Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Serve the sliced brisket on a platter with its gravy poured over the top. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve it in sandwiches or tacos for a delightful twist.

how to store Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve the flavor, keep the gravy with the meat. You can also freeze the brisket for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

tips to make Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

Choose a brisket with good marbling for better flavor.
Make sure to sear the brisket well; this step adds a lot of flavor.
Don’t rush the cooking time; low and slow is the key to tender meat.
Try adding different herbs or spices according to your taste.

variation (if any)

You can add other vegetables like carrots or potatoes to the slow cooker for a complete meal. Also, experimenting with different types of vinegar can give you a unique flavor profile.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use chuck roast or round roast, but cooking time may vary slightly.

2. Is it necessary to sear the brisket?
While it adds flavor, you can skip searing if you’re short on time. The brisket will still turn out tasty.

3. How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix for some heat.