Slow Cooker Brisket
Tender, flavorful brisket slow-cooked with tomatoes, applesauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar, creating a savory dish perfect for hearty family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the brisket in the crock-pot, cutting the meat if necessary to fit.
- In a bowl, stir together the Ro-Tel tomatoes, applesauce, tomato paste, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
- Pour the mixture over the brisket.
- Cover and cook on low heat setting for about 10 hours or until the meat is tender.
- Remove the meat, reserving the juices, and keep warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For a juicier brisket, consider marinating the meat overnight in the sauce mixture to enhance flavor. If you don't have Ro-Tel tomatoes, diced tomatoes with green chilies can be a great substitute. Additionally, feel free to adjust the sweetness by using less brown sugar or substituting it with honey for a different flavor profile. This recipe is also great for using leftover brisket in dishes like Blue Cheese Meat Loaf Roll.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the brisket sliced against the grain for maximum tenderness. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad. For a delightful twist, consider using it in a sandwich with crusty bread or as a filling for tacos. This dish also complements well with sides from traditional American recipes, enhancing your meal experience.
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 skillet over low heat, adding a splash of reserved juices to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, covering the meat to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Slow Cooker Brisket contains roughly 389 calories, with 11g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2355mg per serving (102% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the brisket with other cuts like chuck roast or round roast. However, cooking times may vary; make sure to adjust accordingly for tenderness. Generally, tougher cuts benefit from slow cooking, just like brisket, allowing for a flavorful and tender result.
What can I do if the brisket is tough after cooking?
If the brisket turns out tough, it may need more cooking time. Return it to the slow cooker with a bit of liquid and cook on low for an additional hour or two until tender. Always ensure the brisket is fully submerged in the sauce for even cooking.
Can I freeze the cooked brisket?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked brisket for up to 3 months. Make sure to slice it first and store it in an airtight container with some of the cooking juices to help retain moisture. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
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).