Step 1: Prepare the Brisket
- Season the Brisket: Rub the brisket all over with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning will help to enhance the natural flavors of the meat.
- Sear the Brisket: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the brisket and sear each side until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds depth to the flavor and helps to lock in juices.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker. This will act as a bed for the brisket and infuse it with additional flavors as it cooks.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Pour Over Brisket: Once the brisket is seared, place it on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce mixture over the brisket, ensuring it is well-coated.
Step 3: Slow Cook
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours, or until the brisket is very tender. The slow and low cooking process will break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it incredibly tender and flavorful.
- Check for Doneness: The brisket should be tender enough to easily shred with a fork when it’s done.
Step 4: Serve
- Rest the Brisket: Carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it even more tender.
- Slice or Shred: Slice the brisket against the grain for the most tender results. Alternatively, you can shred the meat with two forks.
- Serve with Sauce: Skim any fat from the surface of the sauce left in the slow cooker. Serve the brisket with the sauce on the side or drizzle it over the top.
Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Brisket
- Trimming the Fat: If your brisket has a thick layer of fat, trim it down to about 1/4 inch thick before seasoning. This will help to keep the dish flavorful without being overly greasy.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can transfer it to a saucepan and simmer it on the stove with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Making Ahead: Brisket tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Simply refrigerate the brisket in the sauce overnight and reheat before serving.
Enjoy your slow cooker beef brisket with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad, for a comforting and satisfying meal.