Name: Braised Beef Brisket
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 210 min
Total time: 240 min
Ingredients: 1 large beef brisket (about 5 lbs, trimmed of all fat); 1 tablespoon matzo meal (or all-purpose flour if not for Passover, gluten-free flour for gluten-free); to taste black pepper (freshly ground); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 large white onions (peeled and thickly sliced); 3 tablespoons tomato paste; to taste kosher salt; 4 cloves garlic (peeled and quartered); 2 cups beef broth; 3 large carrots (peeled and trimmed 2 inches long); 8 medium red potatoes (32 oz total, quartered); 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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There’s something utterly comforting about a pot of Braised Beef Brisket simmering on the stove. The aroma wafts through the house, inviting everyone to gather and share a meal. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly winter evening, and I wanted nothing more than to warm up with a hearty meal. As I watched the brisket slowly transform from a tough cut of meat into a tender delicacy, I realized how magical cooking can be. The combination of flavors from the beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions creates a symphony of taste that is both satisfying and unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to enjoy a comforting dinner, this recipe is bound to impress. So, gather your loved ones and let’s dive into the delightful world of Braised Beef Brisket!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
4 hr

Prep Time:
30 mins

Cook Time:
210 mins

Difficulty:
Hard

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
20 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Oven, Peeler, Chef’s Knife

Braised Beef Brisket Ingredients

When it comes to preparing Braised Beef Brisket, the ingredients not only play a crucial role in flavor but also in creating a wholesome meal. The harmony of beef with potatoes and carrots provides a balanced dish that satisfies the heart and soul. Each ingredient contributes to the depth of flavor that develops as they cook together, making this dish a true testament to the beauty of simple, quality ingredients.

1 large beef brisket, about 5 lbs, trimmed of all fat
1 tablespoon matzo meal, or all-purpose flour if not for Passover, gluten-free flour for gluten-free
Black pepper, to taste, freshly ground
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 large white onions, peeled and thickly sliced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
Kosher salt, to taste
4 cloves garlic, peeled and quartered
2 cups beef broth
3 large carrots, peeled and trimmed 2 inches long
8 medium red potatoes, 32 oz total, quartered
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

How to Prepare Braised Beef Brisket

Making Braised Beef Brisket is an enjoyable process that allows your kitchen to fill with mouth-watering scents. Follow these steps closely to ensure your brisket turns out perfectly tender and flavorful. Ready? Let’s get started!

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This initial heat is essential for starting the cooking process right.
Lightly season the brisket with salt and pepper to taste. Dust it lightly with matzo meal or flour. This will create a nice crust when searing.
In a large 7-quart Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the brisket to the pot. Brown it on both sides for about 10 to 12 minutes. Watch for a nice golden-brown crust forming.
Once browned, carefully remove the brisket and set it aside on a plate while you prepare the onions.
Add the sliced onions, a sprinkle of salt, and pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 10 to 12 minutes until they are soft and browned. Stir frequently with a wooden spoon, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
Spread the tomato paste over the brisket, seasoning with a touch more salt and pepper. Place it back in the pot over the sautéed onions, and add the carrots and garlic. Pour the beef broth over everything, adding depth to your flavor.
Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Cook the brisket for about 1 and 1/2 hours. This slow cooking will help to tenderize the meat beautifully.
After this time, remove the brisket from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Slice it thinly across the grain; this helps keep the meat tender.
Return the sliced brisket back to the pot, keeping the pieces together to resemble the unsliced brisket. Now, add the quartered potatoes and season with salt and pepper again. Cover the pot and return it to the oven.
Reduce the heat to 325°F and continue to cook the brisket until it is fork-tender and the potatoes are cooked through, about another 1 and 1/2 hours. Be sure to check occasionally, adding more broth if needed to maintain moisture.
To serve, arrange the sliced brisket on a platter with the carrots, onions, and potatoes. Garnish with some of the cooking liquid and top with fresh chopped parsley. The remaining gravy can be served on the side for a wonderful finishing touch.

Things Worth Knowing

Check the Temperature: Ensure your brisket reaches an internal temperature of around 190°F to 205°F for optimal tenderness.
Resting Time: Always let your brisket rest for about 15 minutes after cooking before slicing to lock in the juices.
Skimming Fat: You might want to skim off excess fat from the surface of the cooking liquid before serving for a cleaner taste.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, onions, and herbs will greatly enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Recipe Tips about Braised Beef Brisket

When preparing Braised Beef Brisket, a few tips can help elevate your dish. These suggestions will ensure you get the most out of your cooking experience and your meal.

Storage: Leftover Braised Beef Brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently to preserve moisture.
Freezing: You can freeze the brisket for up to three months. Slice it before freezing to make reheating easier.
Pairing: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for a delightful meal. A crusty loaf of bread for dipping is also fantastic.
Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like parsnips or turnips for a different flavor profile.
Slow Cooker Method: If you prefer, you can make this in a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 9 to 10 hours for the same delicious result.

What to Serve With Braised Beef Brisket

Pairing side dishes with Braised Beef Brisket can enhance your dining experience significantly. Here are some delightful suggestions:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that complements the rich flavors of the brisket.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables can add color and nutrition to your plate.
Crusty Bread: A good crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy.
Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the meat.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf or even cauliflower rice can be a lighter side option.
Seasonal Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions like holidays and winter celebrations.

FAQ

While brisket is traditionally used for this recipe, you can substitute it with other cuts like chuck roast or round roast. Just be aware that the cooking time might vary depending on the cut and its thickness. The key is to choose a cut that benefits from slow cooking, which helps break down tough fibers and enhances flavor.

When serving Braised Beef Brisket, consider pairing it with hearty side dishes such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. These sides complement the richness of the brisket while adding variety to your meal. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

Leftover Braised Beef Brisket should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before storing. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. Just remember to slice it first to make reheating easier later on.

Absolutely! To make Braised Beef Brisket in a slow cooker, simply follow the initial steps of browning the meat and sautéing the onions. Then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on LOW for about 9 to 10 hours, or until the meat is very tender. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the meat juicy and flavorful.

Conclusion

Braised Beef Brisket is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. With its rich flavors and tender texture, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to impress and provide that home-cooked goodness we all crave. Share it with your loved ones, and enjoy the delightful experience together!

Braised Beef Brisket

The ultimate comfort food, Braised Beef Brisket is rich, tender, and packed with flavor. This easy weeknight dinner will have your family begging for seconds. With succulent beef, hearty potatoes, and vibrant carrots, it's the perfect dish for cozy evenings. Make it tonight for a meal everyone will love!

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Prep Time 30

Cook Time 3 30

Total Time 4

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

Wooden Spoon
Oven
Peeler
Chef's Knife

Ingredients

1 large beef brisket about 5 lbs, trimmed of all fat
1 tablespoon matzo meal or all-purpose flour if not for Passover, gluten-free flour for gluten-free
to taste black pepper freshly ground
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 large white onions peeled and thickly sliced
3 tablespoons tomato paste
to taste kosher salt
4 cloves garlic peeled and quartered
2 cups beef broth
3 large carrots peeled and trimmed 2 inches long
8 medium red potatoes 32 oz total, quartered
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F. This initial heat is essential for starting the cooking process right.
Lightly season the brisket with salt and pepper to taste. Dust it lightly with matzo meal or flour. This will create a nice crust when searing.
In a large 7-quart Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the brisket to the pot. Brown it on both sides for about 10 to 12 minutes. Watch for a nice golden-brown crust forming.
Once browned, carefully remove the brisket and set it aside on a plate while you prepare the onions.
Add the sliced onions, a sprinkle of salt, and pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 10 to 12 minutes until they are soft and browned. Stir frequently with a wooden spoon, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pot.
Spread the tomato paste over the brisket, seasoning with a touch more salt and pepper. Place it back in the pot over the sautéed onions, and add the carrots and garlic. Pour the beef broth over everything, adding depth to your flavor.
Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Cook the brisket for about 1 and 1/2 hours. This slow cooking will help to tenderize the meat beautifully.
After this time, remove the brisket from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board. Slice it thinly across the grain; this helps keep the meat tender.
Return the sliced brisket back to the pot, keeping the pieces together to resemble the unsliced brisket. Now, add the quartered potatoes and season with salt and pepper again. Cover the pot and return it to the oven.
Reduce the heat to 325°F and continue to cook the brisket until it is fork-tender and the potatoes are cooked through, about another 1 and 1/2 hours. Be sure to check occasionally, adding more broth if needed to maintain moisture.
To serve, arrange the sliced brisket on a platter with the carrots, onions, and potatoes. Garnish with some of the cooking liquid and top with fresh chopped parsley. The remaining gravy can be served on the side for a wonderful finishing touch.

Notes

Slow Cooker Method: To make this in the slow cooker, cook the meat on LOW for 9 to 10 hours, or until very tender. Thirty minutes before your timer goes off, slice the meat and return it to the pot, cooking for an additional 30 minutes.

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