Ingredients
Gathering your ingredients is the first step in any culinary adventure. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 pounds beef brisket
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dark brown sugar
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For those who love to experiment, you can substitute balsamic vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a fruitier tartness, or add a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick.
Instructions
Let’s dive into the cooking process. This is where the magic happens, transforming simple ingredients into a meal that feels like a warm hug.
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a large, oven-safe pot over medium heat. Season the brisket with salt and pepper, then sear it in the pot until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the brisket and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the sliced onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are caramelized and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the beef broth, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the brisket to the pot, spooning some of the sauce over the top. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender and easily pulls apart. Check occasionally, and if the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit more beef broth.
- Once done, remove the brisket from the oven. Use two forks to shred the meat, mixing it well with the sauce.
Remember, patience is key. The longer and slower it cooks, the more tender it becomes. Just like learning to cook with my abuela, sometimes the best dishes require a little time and love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International