Traditional Beef Brisket

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 4 hours
🍽 Serves: 8
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This traditional beef brisket recipe is a comforting classic perfect for any time of the year. With a balance of savory flavors and a tender texture, it promises to be a family favorite. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for Traditional Beef Brisket

The star of the show is the beef brisket. This cut of meat is known for its rich, beefy flavor and becomes wonderfully tender when cooked low and slow. We’ll sear it first to lock in those juices. Olive oil is used for searing, adding a touch of fruitiness while helping to brown the meat. The kosher salt and black pepper add just the right amount of seasoning.

For our braising liquid, beef broth brings depth and richness, while Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce add umami. A hint of apple cider vinegar provides a gentle acidity to balance the flavors. Honey adds a subtle sweetness, complementing the savory elements. Smoked paprika and dry thyme contribute a smoky, herbal aroma that rounds out the dish. Finally, onion and garlic infuse the brisket with their aromatic essence during the slow cooking process.

Tips & Tricks

  • For best results, sear the brisket in a hot pan; this locks in the juices and enhances flavor.
  • Don't skip the resting period; it makes slicing easier and the meat juicier.
  • If the brisket is too large for your pan, you can cut it in half to fit.
  • Use a sharp knife to slice against the grain; this ensures tender, easy-to-chew pieces.

Serving Suggestions

This beef brisket pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. For a lighter option, serve it with a crisp side salad or steamed green beans. And don't forget, the leftovers make fantastic sandwiches the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this brisket in a slow cooker?
Yes, after searing the brisket and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze cooked brisket?
Absolutely! Allow the brisket to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Traditional Beef Brisket Recipe Walkthrough

First things first, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). While that's warming up, grab a large roasting pan and set it over medium-high heat. Pour in the olive oil and let it get nice and hot. Now, take your beef brisket and sear it on both sides. You're aiming for a lovely brown crust, about four minutes per side should do the trick. Once seared, set the brisket aside for a moment.

In the same pan, toss in your sliced onions and minced garlic. Let them sauté until the onions are soft and starting to turn translucent. This should take just a few minutes. With the onions and garlic softened, stir in the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, and thyme. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, letting all those flavors meld together.

Now, return the brisket to the pan, nestling it into the sauce. Cover the pan tightly with foil to trap all that moisture, then slide it into your preheated oven. Let it bake for three to four hours, or until the brisket is tender to the touch. Once it's done, remove the pan from the oven and let the brisket rest for about 15 minutes. This rest period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful. When ready, slice the brisket against the grain for the perfect bite.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Perfectly tender meat every time.
  • Rich, deep flavor from a blend of classic ingredients.
  • Simple, straightforward process with a rewarding result.
  • Leftovers make great sandwiches!

Ingredients

5 lbs beef brisket
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp kosher salt
2 tsp black pepper
2 cups beef broth
1 large onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dry thyme

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large roasting pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear brisket on both sides until browned, about 4 minutes per side.
3. Remove brisket and set aside. In the same pan, add onions and garlic, sautéing until onions are soft.
4. Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return brisket to the pan, cover tightly with foil, and bake in the oven for 3-4 hours or until tender.
6. Remove from oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing against the grain.

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