Never Fail Brisket
A tender, flavorful brisket glazed with apricot jam and ketchup, slow-baked for deep richness. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, with a sweet and savory taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Season the brisket to taste with onion powder, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Broil the brisket in a pan for 10 minutes on each side, being careful not to burn the meat.
- In a bowl, add 2 cups of boiling water to the onion soup mix until dissolved.
- Add 12 ounces of apricot jam and 1 cup of ketchup to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the brisket.
- Bake the brisket at 350°F (175°C) for 3 hours.
- It is better if made the day before and can be frozen very well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the brisket overnight with the spices. If you don’t have apricot jam, peach or orange marmalade can be good substitutes. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, and feel free to add a splash of soy sauce for an umami boost. Ensure the brisket has a good fat cap for moisture during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the brisket against the grain and serve it with the sauce drizzled over the top. It pairs wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a refreshing Turkey-Mushroom Salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the brisket and warm it gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it, but be careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Never Fail Brisket contains roughly 598 calories, with 12g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), iron (22% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
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 meat instead of brisket?
While brisket is ideal for this recipe due to its marbling and flavor, you can substitute a chuck roast. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, and you'll want to ensure it's tender by cooking it long enough.
How do I know when the brisket is done?
The brisket is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F to 205°F (88°C to 96°C) for optimal tenderness. Use a meat thermometer to check, and remember that it will continue to cook slightly while resting after being removed from the oven.
Is it necessary to broil the brisket before baking?
Broiling the brisket helps to develop a nice crust and enhances the flavor. However, if you're short on time, you can skip this step and go straight to baking, but the texture may differ slightly.
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).