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Instructions
1. Prepare the Brisket:
- Pat the brisket dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Ensure the spices are evenly distributed over the meat.
2. Sear the Brisket:
- In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the brisket on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). This step enhances the flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
3. Make the BBQ Sauce:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning according to your taste.
4. Slow Cook the Brisket:
- Place the seared brisket in the slow cooker and pour half of the BBQ sauce over it. Reserve the other half for serving. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the brisket is fork-tender.
5. Shred and Serve:
- Once cooked, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 15 minutes. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the shredded brisket to the slow cooker, mixing it with the remaining BBQ sauce for extra flavor.
6. Enjoy:
- Serve the beef brisket on its own, or pile it onto sandwich buns for a delicious BBQ sandwich. Pair it with coleslaw, baked beans, or your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Cut: Look for a well-marbled brisket, as the fat will render down during cooking, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
- Cook Low and Slow: For the best results, opt for the low setting on your slow cooker. This allows the meat to become tender while fully absorbing the flavors of the BBQ sauce.
- Storage: Leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Health Benefits
- Protein-Packed: Beef brisket is a great source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Homemade Sauce: By making your own BBQ sauce, you can control the ingredients, reducing added sugars and preservatives typically found in store-bought options.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with BBQ Sauce is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and flavor to your table. The slow cooking process ensures a tender and juicy brisket, while the homemade BBQ sauce adds a sweet and tangy kick. Whether served at a family gathering, a barbecue party, or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!