Looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next holiday gathering or a delicious and impressive Sunday dinner? Look no further! This recipe for Beef Brisket with Cranberry Sauce combines the rich, savory depth of slow-cooked brisket with the bright, tart tang of homemade cranberry sauce. It's a perfect blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends, and it’s surprisingly easy to make! This recipe is perfect for those searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas, making homemade cooking a breeze. Get ready to elevate your meal game with this delicious dish, among the best recipes you’ll ever try.
Ingredients:
For the Brisket:
- 3-4 lb beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cranberry Sauce:
- 1 (12 ounce) bag fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar (or to taste, depending on cranberry tartness)
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 orange zest (about 1 tablespoon)
Instructions:
Preparing the Brisket:
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Sear the Brisket: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Season the brisket generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on all sides until nicely browned. Remove from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine and Braise: Return the brisket to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer, then cover the pot tightly and transfer to the preheated oven.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: Braise the brisket for 3-4 hours, or until it's fork-tender. Check occasionally and add more liquid if necessary to prevent sticking.
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Rest and Slice: Remove the brisket from the oven and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful brisket.
Making the Cranberry Sauce:
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Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have burst and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Cool and Serve: Remove from heat and let the cranberry sauce cool slightly before serving.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor: Add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the cranberry sauce.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or cloves to the cranberry sauce.
- Make it ahead: Both the brisket and cranberry sauce can be made a day or two in advance, making this recipe perfect for meal prepping.
- Alternative cooking method: You can also cook the brisket in a slow cooker on low for 8-10 hours.
- Serving suggestions: Serve the brisket sliced with the cranberry sauce alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or your favorite sides.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your brisket and the specific ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use an online nutrition calculator. However, generally, you can expect this dish to be high in protein and relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a satisfying and potentially healthy meal option.
This Beef Brisket with Cranberry Sauce recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight meal. Enjoy the delicious results of your homemade cooking!