This Cranberry-Glazed Baked Brisket is the perfect dish to make when you want to impress without the stress. It combines the rich, hearty flavor of beef brisket with a sweet and tangy cranberry glaze that's perfect for any occasion, especially during the holiday season.
The star of this dish is the beef brisket, a cut known for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked slowly. A generous rub of olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder sets a savory base that enhances the meat's natural taste. The beef broth adds depth and moisture to the dish, while the cranberry sauce offers a sweet contrast to the savory elements. Brown sugar and apple cider vinegar balance sweetness and acidity, enhancing the glaze's complexity. Worcestershire sauce and Dijon mustard bring in umami and a hint of spice. Finally, onions and garlic provide aromatic support that rounds out the flavor profile.
This Cranberry-Glazed Baked Brisket pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the rich meat. Consider serving with a crusty bread to soak up any extra glaze.
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). This is the perfect temperature for a slow, even cook that will tenderize the brisket beautifully. Pat your brisket dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear, then rub it with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This rub will form a flavorful crust as the brisket cooks.
Heat a bit more olive oil in a large ovenproof pot over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on all sides—this should take about 3–4 minutes per side. It might sizzle and spit a bit, but this step is crucial for locking in those juices and adding a rich, browned flavor.
Once your brisket is browned, set it aside. In the same pot, toss in your sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do the trick. You’ll love how the kitchen starts to smell at this point!
While the onions and garlic are cooking, mix together beef broth, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard in a bowl. This is your glaze, a magical mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors.
Return the brisket to the pot and pour the cranberry mixture over the top, making sure it’s evenly coated. Cover the pot and place it in your preheated oven. Let it bake for 3–4 hours. You’re looking for a fork-tender finish, where the meat practically melts in your mouth.
Once out of the oven, let the brisket rest for about 15 minutes. This lets the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every bite is as juicy as the last. Slice against the grain to serve, and get ready to wow your guests!
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