Are you looking for a mouthwatering and effortless meal that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than this Slow Cooker Beef Brisket recipe! Perfectly seasoned and cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, this tender and juicy brisket is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting meal, this dish delivers on taste and convenience. So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
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 (for a richer flavor)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh thyme sprigs
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brisket:
- In a small bowl, combine the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder to make a dry rub.
- Rub the dry rub all over the beef brisket, ensuring that it is evenly coated on all sides.
2. Sear the Brisket:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the brisket on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This will help seal in the juices and add flavor to the meat.
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker:
- Place the sliced onions and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the seared brisket on top of the onions and garlic.
4. Prepare the Braising Liquid:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, balsamic vinegar or red wine, brown sugar, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce until well combined.
- Pour the braising liquid over the brisket in the slow cooker.
- Add the bay leaves and fresh thyme sprigs to the slow cooker for added flavor.
5. Cook the Brisket:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook the brisket on low heat for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily with a fork.
6. Serve:
- Once the brisket is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and transfer it to a cutting board.
- Allow the brisket to rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain.
- Serve the sliced brisket with the onions and garlic from the slow cooker, along with any remaining braising liquid.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dry rub and sear the brisket in advance, then refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply transfer the brisket to the slow cooker and continue with the recipe.
- Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the dry rub.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef brisket with a meat alternative, such as seitan or portobello mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
To make a keto-friendly and low-carb version of this Slow Cooker Beef Brisket, follow these modifications:
- Omit the brown sugar or substitute it with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Use a sugar-free tomato paste or reduce the amount to lower the carb content.
- Serve the brisket with low-carb side dishes such as roasted vegetables or cauliflower mash.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? A: While beef brisket is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can also use other cuts of beef such as chuck roast or bottom round roast. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the thickness and marbling of the meat.
Q: Can I freeze leftover brisket? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover brisket for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely, then slice it and store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw the brisket overnight in the refrigerator and then warm it in the oven or microwave.
Q: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Simply follow the instructions for searing the brisket using the sauté function, then pressure cook it on high pressure for 60-70 minutes, followed by a natural release.
Q: Can I omit the balsamic vinegar or red wine? A: While the balsamic vinegar or red wine adds depth of flavor to the dish, you can omit it if you prefer. Just adjust the seasoning to taste.
With its tender and succulent meat, rich flavor, and aromatic spices, this Slow Cooker Beef Brisket is a true crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe delivers on taste, convenience, and satisfaction. So, fire up your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
