Description

Beef brisket is the ultimate comfort food, rich in flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tender. Whether roasted, slow-cooked, or smoked, this dish is guaranteed to impress your family and guests. Here’s how to make the perfect brisket!

Ingredients

Scale

4 lbs beef brisket (flat or point cut)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp kosher salt
2 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
2 cups beef broth or stock
1 large onion, sliced
4 garlic cloves, smashed
Optional: 1 cup BBQ sauce for glazing

Instructions

Prepare the Brisket: Trim excess fat, leaving a thin layer to keep the meat moist. Pat the brisket dry with paper towels.
Season Generously: Rub the brisket with olive oil. Combine salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a bowl, then coat the brisket evenly with the mixture. Let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Choose Your Cooking Method:
- Oven Roasting: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the brisket in a roasting pan with sliced onions, garlic, and beef broth. Cover tightly with foil and roast for 3-4 hours until fork-tender.
- Slow Cooking: Place the brisket in a slow cooker, add onions, garlic, and broth. Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
- Smoking: Preheat the smoker to 225°F (107°C). Place the brisket fat-side up, smoke with hickory or oak wood for 10-12 hours, maintaining consistent heat.
Rest the Brisket: Remove the brisket from heat, cover loosely with foil, and let it rest for 20 minutes. This redistributes the juices.
Slice and Serve: Slice the brisket against the grain into thin pieces. Serve with BBQ sauce or pan juices, and pair with your favorite sides.

Notes

1️⃣ Low and Slow is Key: Cooking brisket at a low temperature for an extended period ensures the connective tissue breaks down, making the meat tender and flavorful. Whether roasting, slow cooking, or smoking, patience is essential!

2️⃣ Rest Before Slicing: Allowing the brisket to rest after cooking helps retain its juices. Slice against the grain to ensure every bite is tender and easy to chew.

3️⃣ Season Generously: Brisket can handle bold flavors. Don’t skimp on seasoning or marinades, as this cut thrives on soaking up every bit of flavor you provide.

Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time: 4-12 hours (depending on method)