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slow cooked beef brisket

Slow Cooked Beef Brisket for Unforgettable Comfort Food

This slow cooked beef brisket delivers tender, fall-apart meat and rich, savory gravy for the ultimate comfort food experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 hours
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 10 hours 35 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Brisket
  • 1 piece Beef Brisket The star ingredient providing deep, rich flavor and remarkable tenderness.
  • 2.5 tsp Kosher Salt Essential for enhancing flavor and retaining moisture in the meat.
  • 1.5 tsp Black Pepper Adds a kick of heat; freshly ground is ideal for maximum taste.
  • 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika Infuses a smoky depth that elevates the brisket’s profile.
  • 1 tbsp Brown Sugar Balances the spices with a hint of sweetness; honey can be an alternative for change.
  • 2 tsp Garlic Powder Foundational flavors that create a savory base for the dish.
  • 2 tsp Onion Powder Foundational flavors that create a savory base for the dish.
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin Contributes pleasant earthiness, complementing the other spices.
  • 1 tsp Chili Powder Introduces mild heat and additional complexity.
  • 1 tsp Dried Thyme Provides an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Essential for searing, adding moisture and smoky flavor.
For the Gravy
  • 2 pieces Yellow Onions Thinly sliced, forms the savory base and adds natural sweetness to the gravy.
  • 6 pieces Garlic Cloves Smashed, fresh flavor booster in the cooking liquid that elevates the dish.
  • 1.5 cups Beef Broth Low-sodium creates a rich sauce; vegetable broth can lighten it up if preferred.
  • 2 tbsp Tomato Paste Deepens the richness of the sauce, enhancing flavor depth.
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce Adds a robust umami flavor; opt for gluten-free if necessary.
  • 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar Balances richness and rounds out the flavors wonderfully.
  • 2 pieces Bay Leaves Infuse savory flavors into the cooking liquid.
For Extra Flavor
  • 0.5 tsp Liquid Smoke Optional, adds unique depth in flavor.
  • 1 tsp Espresso Powder Adds a unique depth in flavor to make your brisket unforgettable.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the brisket by patting it dry and trimming excess fat. Combine spice mixture and rub generously over the brisket.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear the brisket on each side for 3–4 minutes until golden brown. Transfer to a slow cooker.
  3. Sauté sliced onions until softened, then add smashed garlic cloves and cook until fragrant.
  4. Pour beef broth and add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir and simmer for 1 minute. Pour over brisket and add bay leaves.
  5. Cover and cook on Low for 8–10 hours or High for 5–6 hours until fork-tender. Alternatively, bake in a Dutch oven at 300°F for 3.5 to 4.5 hours.
  6. Let the brisket rest for 20 minutes, then slice against the grain. Strain and reduce the cooking liquid for gravy.
  7. Serve slices on a platter with warm gravy and sautéed onions. Pair with roasted veggies or mashed potatoes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 8gProtein: 28gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 680mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gCalcium: 20mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Rest brisket before slicing for optimal moisture. Thicken gravy if needed by reducing it on stove before serving. Can substitute brisket with chuck roast if unavailable.

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