Delicious Beef Brisket Recipe from Smitten Kitchen: 1 Minute to a Flavorful Beef Brisket

Beef brisket is a classic comfort food dish, beloved for its tenderness and deeply layered flavors. Drawing inspiration from Smitten Kitchen's renowned approach to homestyle cooking, this brisket recipe combines accessible techniques with impressive results. You'll enjoy a dish perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or simply cozy nights in. Here's how you can create a delicious, tender beef brisket that will win rave reviews at any table.

Ingredients:

1. 3-4 pounds beef brisket, preferably first-cut
2. Salt and freshly ground black pepper
3. 2 tablespoons olive oil
4. 2 large onions, thinly sliced
5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
6. 2 cups beef broth (or low-sodium stock)
7. 1 cup dry red wine
8. 1/4 cup tomato paste
9. 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
10. 2 tablespoons brown sugar
11. 3 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
12. 2 celery stalks, cut into chunks

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Pat brisket dry and generously season all sides with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the brisket: In a large Dutch oven or heavy roasting pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the brisket on both sides (about 4-5 minutes per side), then remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Lower the heat to medium. Add onions and a pinch of salt, cooking until golden and soft (about 10 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Braise: Add the tomato paste, stirring it into the onions for 2-3 minutes. Pour in the wine and scrape up any brown bits on the bottom of the pan. Stir in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Return the brisket to the pot, nestling it among the onions, and add carrots and celery around the meat.
5. Roast: Cover tightly with a lid or foil and roast for 3-3.5 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender.
6. Let it rest: Remove the brisket from the oven and let it cool in its juices for at least 30 minutes. For best results, refrigerate (covered) overnight, then slice brisket cold the next day and reheat in its sauce — this allows flavors to deepen and the brisket to slice beautifully without falling apart.
7. Serve: Warm the brisket and sauce together, correct seasoning if needed, and serve with the vegetables and plenty of sauce ladled over the top.

As a designer, I always consider how presentation elevates a homecooked meal—not just its flavor. For this brisket, serving it on an elegant platter garnished with fresh herbs creates a heartwarming centerpiece for the table. If you’re inspired to take your DIY room decor or tablescape to new heights for your next dinner party, a thoughtfully plated brisket certainly adds a touch of sophistication and warmth to your space.

Tips 1:

For enhanced flavor, prepare the brisket a day ahead. Chilling overnight not only helps the brisket slice neatly but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Reheat gently in the oven before serving for best texture and taste.

FAQ

Q: Can I make this brisket in advance?

A: Absolutely! Brisket actually tastes even better the next day after resting in its sauce, letting flavors deepen and making slicing easier.

Q: Can I skip the wine in the recipe?

A: Yes, you can substitute additional beef broth for the wine, though wine adds great depth to the finished dish.

Q: What cut of brisket works best?

A: A first-cut (or flat-cut) brisket is leaner and slices more neatly, while a point-cut has more marbling and richness.

Q: How should I store leftovers?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The brisket also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?

A: Yes! After searing and preparing the sauce, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until fork-tender.