Looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner that practically cooks itself? The Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket is your answer! This luscious, fork-tender brisket is bathed in a sweet-tart cranberry glaze that brilliantly harmonizes rich flavors and a refreshing twist. Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast, a cozy weekend gathering, or simply seeking an easy dinner idea, this recipe is not just impressive but also incredibly straightforward. This dish thrives on simplicity and taste, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of family and friends.
Imagine coming home after a long day to the mouthwatering aroma of a perfectly cooked brisket, a delightful blend of cranberries and herbs filling your home with warmth. With minimal prep work, the slow cooker does the magic for you, transforming a simple piece of meat into a centerpiece dish worthy of any celebration. Not only does this meal tick all the boxes for flavor and ease, but it also provides tremendous value, offering ample servings and leftovers to enjoy later. Dive into this foolproof recipe that merges classic comforts with festive flair!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket
- Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does the work for you, allowing for perfect results with minimal effort.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of cranberry, balsamic vinegar, and herbs creates a rich and complex flavor profile.
- Tender and Juicy: Slow cooking ensures your brisket is fork-tender and packed with moisture.
- Impressive Presentation: This dish garners compliments, making it perfect for special occasions.
- Healthy Comfort Food: Enjoy comfort food that still celebrates fresh ingredients like herbs.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before starting your culinary adventure with the Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket, it’s time to prepare your workspace. Ensure you have a reliable slow cooker on hand, ideally with a programmable feature for consistent results. Gather your ingredients, and make sure to trim off excess fat from the brisket to enhance its tenderness during cooking.
Prepare a large skillet for searing the brisket, as this crucial step adds depth to the dish. Having measuring cups and spoons ready will simplify your preparation, especially when mixing the glossy glaze. For serving, take out an attractive platter to display the brisket, and be sure to have your preferred garnishes, such as extra cranberries or fresh herbs, for that finishing touch.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 pounds beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 14 oz can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- <1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried
- 4 to 5 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
- Optional garnish: extra cranberries, rosemary sprigs, or chopped parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Brisket
Start by seasoning the brisket generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This initial step enhances the flavor of the meat, and it’s crucial for achieving a savory depth throughout the cooking process.
Step 2: Sear the Brisket
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, place the seasoned brisket into the skillet, searing it on all sides until you achieve a golden-brown crust. Searing is vital as it locks in juices and adds an enticing texture while also developing complex flavors.
Step 3: Prepare the Glaze
While the brisket is searing, it’s time to whip up the delicious glaze. In a mixing bowl, combine the whole berry cranberry sauce with beef broth, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. This flavorful mixture will envelop the brisket, creating a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Brisket
Once the brisket is nicely browned, transfer it to the slow cooker. Pour the prepared cranberry glaze over the brisket, ensuring it is evenly coated. Add the fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs to the cooker, infusing additional aromatic flavors as it cooks. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours until the meat is fork-tender. Patience is key here, as the longer cook time allows flavors to deepen.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After the brisket has reached its tender state, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This step helps retain the juices within the meat, preventing dryness. Slice the brisket against the grain for the best texture, and garnish with your choice of extra cranberries, rosemary sprigs, or chopped parsley for a refined touch.
Variations
- Protein: Try replacing brisket with pork shoulder or a beef roast for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetables: Incorporate root vegetables like carrots and potatoes for a hearty one-pot meal.
- Spices: Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick.
Cooking Notes
- Always allow the brisket to rest before slicing to ensure it remains juicy.
- For a thicker sauce, transfer the cooking liquid to a saucepan and simmer until reduced, enhancing the glazes’ flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the brisket.
Tips
- For enhanced flavor, don’t skip the searing step! It significantly improves taste.
- Utilize leftovers in sandwiches or wraps for delicious lunches the next day.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 300 per serving
- Protein: 38g
- Sodium: 650mg
FAQs
Can I cook this brisket on the stovetop?
While the slow cooker is recommended for this recipe, brisket can be braised on the stovetop. Follow the same steps, cooking in a covered pot over low heat for about 3–4 hours, checking for tenderness.
What can I substitute for beef broth?
You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as a substitute, keeping in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.
Can I use jellied cranberry sauce instead of whole berry?
Whole berry cranberry sauce is preferred for texture and flavor, but in a pinch, jellied varieties can be used.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of broth or water to maintain moisture.
Conclusion
The Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket is the perfect meal for any occasion, combining ease of preparation with an impressive final product. Its sweet-tart glaze accentuates the natural flavors of the brisket, making it a dish that will fill both bellies and hearts. Experiment with the variations to suit your taste preferences, and don’t hesitate to share your experience or tips in the comments below. This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a gateway to creating beautiful family memories around the dinner table. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s make something memorable today!
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Slow Cooker Cranberry Glazed Brisket
- Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This luscious, fork-tender brisket is bathed in a sweet-tart cranberry glaze that brilliantly harmonizes rich flavors and a refreshing twist.
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 pounds beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 14 oz can whole berry cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- <1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried
- 4 to 5 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried
- Optional garnish: extra cranberries, rosemary sprigs, or chopped parsley
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the brisket generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This initial step enhances the flavor of the meat, and it’s crucial for achieving a savory depth throughout the cooking process.
- Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, place the seasoned brisket into the skillet, searing it on all sides until you achieve a golden-brown crust. Searing is vital as it locks in juices and adds an enticing texture while also developing complex flavors.
- While the brisket is searing, it’s time to whip up the delicious glaze. In a mixing bowl, combine the whole berry cranberry sauce with beef broth, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and onion powder. This flavorful mixture will envelop the brisket, creating a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity.
- Once the brisket is nicely browned, transfer it to the slow cooker. Pour the prepared cranberry glaze over the brisket, ensuring it is evenly coated. Add the fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs to the cooker, infusing additional aromatic flavors as it cooks. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours until the meat is fork-tender. Patience is key here, as the longer cook time allows flavors to deepen.
- After the brisket has reached its tender state, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This step helps retain the juices within the meat, preventing dryness. Slice the brisket against the grain for the best texture, and garnish with your choice of extra cranberries, rosemary sprigs, or chopped parsley for a refined touch.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, don’t skip the searing step! It significantly improves taste. Utilize leftovers in sandwiches or wraps for delicious lunches the next day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 hours on LOW or 4–5 hours on HIGH
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 per serving
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Protein: 38 g