Slow Cooker Beef Brisket Recipe

Indulge in the rich and hearty flavors of Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with this mouthwatering recipe. Perfectly seasoned and slow-cooked to tender perfection, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a gathering with friends and family or simply craving a comforting meal, this beef brisket is sure to hit the spot. Join us as we delve into the art of slow cooking and learn how to create a dish that will leave everyone coming back 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. In a small bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder to create a dry rub.
2. Rub the dry rub all over the beef brisket, ensuring that it’s evenly coated.
3. In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef brisket on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer the brisket to the slow cooker.
4. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Transfer the onion and garlic to the slow cooker, arranging them around the brisket.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine the beef broth, balsamic vinegar or red wine, brown sugar, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour the mixture over the brisket in the slow cooker.
7. Add the bay leaves and fresh thyme sprigs to the slow cooker.
8. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the brisket is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
9. Once cooked, remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain.
10. Serve the sliced brisket with the cooking juices spooned over the top.

Cook Notes and Variations

• For added flavor, you can marinate the brisket in the dry rub overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
• Feel free to customize the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or swap out the smoked paprika for regular paprika for a milder flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the brisket from the slow cooker once it’s cooked and strain the cooking juices into a saucepan. Simmer the juices over medium heat until reduced to your desired consistency.
• Serve the brisket with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw for a complete meal.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? A: While beef brisket is the traditional choice for this dish, you can also use other cuts such as chuck roast or bottom round. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts may require longer or shorter cooking times.

Q: Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of a slow cooker? A: Yes, you can certainly make this recipe in the oven. Simply follow the same instructions for seasoning and searing the brisket, then transfer it to a roasting pan. Cover the pan with foil and roast in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is tender.

Q: Can I freeze leftover brisket? A: Yes, leftover brisket freezes well. Once cooled, you can store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the brisket overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it gently in a skillet or in the microwave until warmed through.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

For those following a keto or low-carb diet, you can make a few simple substitutions to create a version of Slow Cooker Beef Brisket that fits your dietary needs:

• Omit the brown sugar from the recipe to reduce the carb content.
• Replace the balsamic vinegar or red wine with beef broth or apple cider vinegar for a low-carb option.
• Serve the brisket with cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables instead of traditional carb-heavy sides.

With these substitutions, you can enjoy the savory goodness of Slow Cooker Beef Brisket while staying within your dietary goals.

Slow Cooker Beef Brisket is a classic comfort food dish that never fails to impress. With its tender, flavorful meat and rich, aromatic sauce, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to satisfy. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the savory goodness of Slow Cooker Beef Brisket. Your taste buds will thank you!