Brisket Carbonnade
A hearty Belgian-inspired dish featuring tender beef brisket slow-baked in beer with onions and aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pour all ingredients over the beef brisket in a baking dish or slow cooker.
- Cover with foil if baking, or set slow cooker to low.
- Bake at 350°F for 3 1/2 to 4 hours, or cook in a slow cooker for 10 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider browning the brisket before adding it to the baking dish or slow cooker. You can substitute the beer with beef broth or a non-alcoholic beer if preferred. Adjust the amount of brown sugar based on your sweetness preference. Fresh thyme can replace dried thyme for a more vibrant taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the brisket carbonnade with crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the rich sauce. It pairs beautifully with Sauerkraut Casserole From Netherlands for a hearty meal. A side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad would also complement the dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the brisket in a baking dish with some of the cooking liquid, cover with foil, and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Brisket Carbonnade contains roughly 731 calories, with 13g protein, 178g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (102% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (88% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 29g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
While brisket is ideal for its marbling and flavor, you can use chuck roast or shank as alternatives. These cuts will also yield tender results when cooked slowly, but adjust cooking times as needed based on thickness.
Is it necessary to cover the dish while cooking?
Yes, covering the dish while cooking helps to retain moisture and ensures the brisket becomes tender. If using a slow cooker, keep the lid on to maintain heat and prevent drying out.
How can I enhance the flavor of the sauce?
To enhance the sauce's flavor, add a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or some chopped carrots and celery to the mix. These ingredients add complexity and sweetness, similar to what you might find in Beef Carbonade or French Country Beef Stew.
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).