Meemaw’s Tender Slow-Cooked Brisket

Ingredients:

• 4-5 lb (1.8-2.3 kg) beef brisket
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
• 1 cup (240ml) tomato sauce
• ½ cup (120ml) Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Brisket

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) if cooking in the oven.
2. Pat the brisket dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika on both sides.

Step 2: Sear the Brisket

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the brisket on both sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In the same pan, sauté the sliced onion until softened (about 5 minutes).
2. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the beef broth, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Combine and Cook

1. Place the seared brisket in a roasting pan or slow cooker. Pour the prepared sauce over the brisket.
2. If using the oven: Cover tightly with foil or a lid and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender.
3. If using a slow cooker: Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove the brisket from the sauce and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing against the grain.
2. Serve with the sauce spooned over the top, alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread.