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A perfectly cooked beef brisket showing tender meat and rich glaze.

Beef Brisket

A slow-cooked beef brisket that's tender, juicy, and layered with flavors, ideal for family gatherings and special occasions.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 10 hours
Total Time 10 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Brisket Ingredients
  • 4-5 pounds Beef Brisket Look for good marbling for better flavor.
  • 1 cup water Keeps the brisket moist during cooking.
  • 1 tablespoon beef bouillon Enhances savory depth; substitute with beef broth if unavailable.
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Adds umami flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon reduced sodium soy sauce Can be substituted with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Spice Rub
  • 2 tablespoons paprika Smoked paprika adds a delightful twist.
  • 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar Balancing sweetness.
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder Adjust to your desired spiciness.
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder Fresh garlic is a lovely substitute.
  • 2 teaspoons salt Optional adjustments based on personal preference.
Barbecue Sauce Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups ketchup Low-sugar varieties can be used.
  • 1/3 cup molasses Honey can be substituted but won’t have the same depth.
  • 1/4 cup seedless blackberry preserves Raspberry preserves work as a substitute.
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar Any vinegar can be used as a substitute.
Additional Flavor Enhancers
  • 1 tablespoon reserved spice rub Keep a portion of the spice blend for added flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon mesquite liquid smoke Optional for added smokiness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
  2. Trim the brisket of excess fat, rinse it under cold water, and pat it dry with paper towels.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together spice rub ingredients and reserve 1 tablespoon for the barbecue sauce.
  4. Generously rub the remaining spice mix all over the brisket and let it sit for 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking
  1. Bake the brisket for 30 minutes at 425 degrees F to sear the meat.
  2. In a separate bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce ingredients, including the reserved spice rub.
  3. Combine 1/2 cup of the barbecue sauce with water, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and beef bouillon in the slow cooker.
  4. Transfer the brisket into the slow cooker, cover, and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours until fork-tender.
  5. After cooking, move the brisket to a foil-lined baking sheet and brush with barbecue sauce. Broil for 5-10 minutes until slightly caramelized.
  6. Warm any remaining barbecue sauce, either in the microwave or by simmering on the stovetop.
  7. Slice brisket against the grain and serve it hot alongside the barbecue sauce for dipping.

Notes

For maximum juiciness, allow the brisket to rest for at least 10 minutes after cooking. You can freeze cooked brisket for up to 3 months.