Are you craving tender, flavorful brisket but intimidated by long smoking times? Fear not! This stovetop brisket recipe delivers melt-in-your-mouth results in a fraction of the time, making it the perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights or a delicious weekend treat. This recipe is all about homemade cooking at its finest, showcasing the rich, savory flavors of brisket without the fuss of a smoker. Prepare to impress yourself and your family with this surprisingly easy and healthy meal!
Ingredients:
- 2-3 lb beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Brisket
Season the brisket generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step helps develop a rich flavor and beautiful crust. Remove the brisket from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing Aromatics
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmering the Brisket
Return the brisket to the pot. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently for 2-2.5 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender. You may need to add a little more broth if the liquid evaporates too much during cooking.
Step 4: Shredding and Serving
Once the brisket is cooked through, remove it from the pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before shredding with two forks. Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid. You can thicken the cooking liquid by simmering it uncovered for a few minutes if desired. Serve the shredded brisket over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite sides. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for the Best Stove Top Brisket:
- Choose the right cut: A good quality brisket is key. Look for a well-marbled piece of meat.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Ensure there's enough space in the pot for the brisket to cook evenly.
- Patience is key: Low and slow cooking is essential for tender brisket. Don't rush the process.
- Use a meat thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the brisket to ensure it's cooked through. It should reach an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C).
Variations:
- Spicy Brisket: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the cooking liquid for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Brisket: Once the brisket is shredded, toss it in your favorite BBQ sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garlic Lovers Brisket: Add more garlic! Use 4-5 cloves instead of 2.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your brisket and serving size, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low (depending on sides)
This easy stovetop brisket recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's a perfect example of delicious dishes achieved through simple homemade cooking techniques. Enjoy!