Beef Brisket With Potatoes On The Half-Shell With Sour

Prep: 15 min Cook: 180 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

Tender beef brisket cooked slowly with aromatic thyme and bay leaves, served alongside hearty potatoes and a tangy Sour Cream-Horseradish Sauce for a comforting meal.

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Ingredients

  • 4 to 4 1/2 lb. whole brisket
  • 2 c. water
  • 2 bay leaves
  • salt
  • pepper
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 6 to 8 Idaho potatoes

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 450°F.
  2. Wipe the brisket with a clean, damp cloth and season it with salt.
  3. Roast it in a deep roasting pan until golden brown, about 30 to 35 minutes.
  4. Add about 2 cups of water to the pan or just enough to keep the roast from sticking and burning on the bottom.
  5. Sprinkle the roast with freshly ground pepper.
  6. Add the thyme and bay leaves.
  7. Cover and reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.
  8. Cook until the meat is tender, approximately 2 to 2 1/2 hours, depending on the size and grade of the brisket.

Tips & Substitutions

For optimal flavor, let the brisket sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before seasoning and roasting. If fresh thyme is unavailable, dried thyme can be used, but reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the water can enhance the meat's flavor. This dish also pairs beautifully with Mac And Cheese Pizza Hot Dish for a comforting meal.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the brisket sliced against the grain with the pan juices drizzled over the top. It pairs wonderfully with the potatoes on the half-shell, which can be topped with sour cream or chives. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp salad. This hearty dish is perfect for gatherings or family dinners.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the brisket and warm it gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave in short intervals.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Beef Brisket With Potatoes On The Half-Shell With Sour contains roughly 275 calories, with 6g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (59% of the Daily Value), iron (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 881mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).

275 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.6g 11% DV
Total Fat 11g 14% DV
Carbs 40.5g 15% DV
Fiber 6.7g 24% DV
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 880.7mg 38% DV
Potassium 1032.7mg 22% DV
Cholesterol 1.7mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 61.4mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 53.2mg 59% DV
Calcium 123.9mg 10% DV
Iron 5.4mg 30% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the brisket is done cooking?

The brisket is done when it is fork-tender and reaches an internal temperature of at least 195°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, and if using a fork, it should easily pull apart. Cooking times can vary based on the size and grade of the brisket.

Can I cook the brisket in a slow cooker instead?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. After searing the brisket in a pan, transfer it to the slow cooker with the water, bay leaves, and thyme. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the brisket is tender. This method will yield a juicy, flavorful result.

What are good side dishes to serve with this brisket?

Great side dishes include roasted or mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a simple garden salad. For something heartier, consider serving baked beans or cornbread. This brisket also goes well with creamy sides, making it a perfect match for various American recipes.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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