Description
This luscious, fork-tender brisket is bathed in a sweet-tart cranberry glaze that brilliantly harmonizes rich flavors and a refreshing twist.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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