Beef Brisket in Oven

Discover the Art of Oven-Baked Beef Brisket

Welcome to a delicious journey into the world of beef brisket, a dish that brings together rich traditions and the comforts of home cooking. Today, we’re diving into a recipe that promises tender, juicy meat with a flavorful twist, all from the convenience of your oven. Whether you’re a fan of Texas barbecue or Jewish-style brisket, this recipe offers a delightful fusion that’s sure to please your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This oven-baked beef brisket is perfect for those who love the robust flavors of barbecue but don’t have access to a smoker. The blend of spices in the rub creates a savory crust, while the homemade barbecue sauce adds a tangy sweetness that complements the meat wonderfully. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe that can easily be adapted to suit your taste or dietary preferences.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Oven
• Baking sheet or baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Medium-sized saucepot
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Knife for slicing

Ingredients

Brisket:
1 (3 – 5 pound) brisket, fat trimmed to about ¼-inch thick
Salt, to taste
Ground black pepper, to taste

Brisket Rub:
1 packed Tablespoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste (optional)

Barbecue Sauce:
2 Tablespoons butter (or rendered brisket fat)
1 cup finely chopped onion (about ½ of a large onion)
2 – 3 cloves of garlic, minced
⅓ cup packed dark brown sugar
½ cup ketchup
1 Tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced (about 1 Tablespoon)
½ cup apple cider vinegar
¼ cup bourbon
Reserved brisket juices, skimmed of fat

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 275°F/135°C and place an oven rack in the middle of your oven.
2. Season the brisket with salt and black pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix all of the spice rub ingredients together until they’re well combined.
4. Gently rub the spice mix all over the brisket, ensuring even coverage.
5. Create a double-layered aluminum foil pouch: place the brisket (fat side up) on two layers of foil, and seal well to retain moisture.
6. Let the brisket sit in the spice rub for 3 to 24 hours in the refrigerator, or cook immediately.
7. Place the foil pouch on a baking sheet or dish and cook for 3 to 5 hours, depending on the brisket’s size.
8. Turn off the oven and allow the brisket to rest until it’s cool enough to handle.
9. Pour the brisket juices into a bowl, skim the fat, and reserve 2 tablespoons of fat for the sauce.
10. In a medium saucepot over medium heat, cook the onion until softened, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
11. Add brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chipotle pepper, apple cider vinegar, and bourbon. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
12. Add reserved brisket juices and simmer until reduced to desired consistency, about 15 minutes.
13. Remove brisket from oven, open foil, and turn oven to broil. Brush brisket with sauce and broil until top is browned and fat crisps.
14. Let brisket cool slightly before slicing against the grain into ¼-inch slices. Serve with extra barbecue sauce.

Tips for Success

• For best results, let the brisket marinate in the spice rub overnight to enhance the flavors.
• Ensure the foil pouch is sealed tightly to keep the brisket moist during cooking.
• Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the rub for your preferred level of heat.

Additional Tips and Variations

Try adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the barbecue sauce for an extra kick. If you’re avoiding alcohol, you can substitute the bourbon with beef broth or apple juice.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: 450
Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 15g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this brisket ahead of time? Yes, this brisket can be cooked a day in advance. Simply reheat it in the oven before serving.

What can I serve with this brisket? This brisket pairs well with classic sides like coleslaw, mashed potatoes, or cornbread.

Conclusion

We hope this oven-baked beef brisket recipe becomes a favorite in your household. Its tender texture and rich flavors make it a standout dish for any occasion. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience with us. Bon appétit!