If you're craving comfort food with a zesty twist, you're in the right place. This Savory Slow Cooker Citrus Brisket combines the rich, tender flavors of slow-cooked beef with a refreshing citrus kick. Perfect for any cozy dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress!
The star of the show is, of course, the beef brisket. It’s a cut that benefits from long, slow cooking, making it melt-in-your-mouth tender. Olive oil is used for searing, which locks in flavor and starts building a rich fond. Onion and garlic provide a savory base, while beef broth adds depth. The combination of orange juice and lime juice is what gives this dish its signature citrusy flavor, balanced with a touch of soy sauce for umami. Brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness, while smoked paprika and ground cumin bring warmth and complexity. Seasoning with salt and black pepper is essential for enhancing all these flavors, and bay leaves add an aromatic touch.
This brisket pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery polenta. For a lighter option, try it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up all those delicious juices.
Start by heating up your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While that's warming up, pat your brisket dry with some paper towels. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the brisket in the skillet. Sear it on all sides until it has a nice, brown crust, about four minutes per side. This step is crucial for locking in those delicious juices.
Once your brisket is nicely browned, transfer it to your slow cooker. In the same skillet, toss in the sliced onion and minced garlic. You’ll want to sauté these until they’re soft and fragrant, which should take about two to three minutes. Don’t rush this step—it's important for building flavor.
Next, add the beef broth, orange juice, lime juice, and soy sauce to the skillet. As you pour these in, use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. This is where the magic happens, as those bits add tons of flavor.
Stir in the brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Once everything's well combined, pour this aromatic mixture over your brisket in the slow cooker. Toss in those bay leaves for a little extra depth.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let it work its magic for 8-10 hours. Your patience will be rewarded with brisket so tender it practically falls apart. Once it's done, carefully remove the brisket and slice it against the grain. Serve it up with the luscious juices from the slow cooker on top.
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