Rustic Herb-Infused Slow Cooker Brisket

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 8 hours
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
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Get ready to transform a simple cut of beef into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece with this Rustic Herb-Infused Slow Cooker Brisket. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, marrying rich herbs and spices into a savory symphony of flavors. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this brisket is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for Rustic Herb-Infused Slow Cooker Brisket

Beef brisket is the star, providing a rich, beefy flavor that melts in your mouth after slow cooking. We use olive oil to sear the brisket, which locks in the juices and adds a hint of fruitiness. Onion and garlic create a savory base, infusing the dish with depth. The beef broth and red wine add moisture and complexity, while tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce enhance umami. Thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika bring earthy, aromatic notes. Basic seasoning with black pepper and salt rounds it out, and bay leaves add subtle warmth. Finally, fresh parsley brightens the dish at the end.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a deeper flavor, sear the brisket a day ahead and refrigerate overnight before slow cooking.
  • Use a large, heavy skillet to get an even sear on the brisket.
  • If you prefer, substitute beef broth with chicken broth for a lighter flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This brisket pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery polenta. A side of roasted root vegetables or a fresh green salad complements the richness of the meat beautifully. For a comforting meal, serve with a warm, crusty bread to soak up the savory juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, a chuck roast can substitute brisket but may have a slightly different texture.
What can I use instead of red wine?
Try using an equal amount of grape juice or simply increase the beef broth.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Rustic Herb-Infused Slow Cooker Brisket Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating up your skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, place the brisket in the pan. You’ll want to sear it on all sides until it’s beautifully browned. This step is key for locking in flavor.

Next, move the seared brisket to your slow cooker. Layer the sliced onion and minced garlic on top. These aromatics will slowly infuse the meat as it cooks.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Pour this mixture over the brisket, coating it evenly. Tuck in the bay leaves for an extra layer of flavor.

Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Now, you can walk away and let it cook for about 8 hours. The brisket will become tender and the flavors will meld together beautifully.

Once done, carefully remove the brisket and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting step helps keep the juices in the meat. Just before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Effortlessly impressive: Minimal prep time with maximum flavor.
  • Herb-infused goodness: Aromatic herbs elevate the dish.
  • Perfect for gatherings: Feeds a crowd with ease.
  • Make-ahead magic: Tastes even better the next day.

Ingredients

4 lbs beef brisket
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup red wine
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tsp dried thyme
2 tsp dried rosemary
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp salt
2 bay leaves
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on all sides until browned.
2. Transfer the brisket to the slow cooker. Add sliced onion and minced garlic on top.
3. In a bowl, mix together beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Pour over the brisket.
4. Add bay leaves to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the brisket is tender.
5. Remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.

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