Tender Beef Brisket
Tender beef brisket slow-cooked to perfection with a tangy, savory sauce featuring ketchup, horseradish, and mustard, ideal for hearty family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the brisket in a 3-quart slow cooker.
- In a bowl, combine the ketchup, chopped onion, cider vinegar, prepared horseradish, prepared mustard, sugar, and pepper.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the brisket.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until tender.
- Remove the beef; set aside.
- Pour the sauce into a saucepan.
- Cook, uncovered, over low heat for 13 to 15 minutes or until reduced and thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Slice the meat across the grain.
- Serve with the thickened sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the brisket overnight in the sauce mixture. If you don't have horseradish, a bit of wasabi can work as a substitute. You can also try using a mix of BBQ sauce and tomato sauce for a different flavor profile. Be sure not to rush the cooking process, as slow and low is key to achieving tender beef.
Serving Suggestions
This tender beef brisket pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a comforting meal. For a heartier option, serve it alongside a fresh garden salad or coleslaw. Drizzle the thickened sauce over the meat and consider serving with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, slice the meat and warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist. You can also microwave it in short intervals, covered, to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tender Beef Brisket contains roughly 84 calories, with 8g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 instead of brisket?
While brisket is ideal for this recipe, you can use chuck roast as an alternative. It also becomes tender when slow-cooked and has a similar rich flavor. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and thickness of the cut.
What can I do with leftover brisket?
Leftover brisket can be used in various recipes. Shred it for sandwiches, toss it in a salad for added protein, or incorporate it into a beef stew. You can also make a delicious beef hash by sautéing it with potatoes and onions, similar to a Boy Scout Hash.
How can I tell when the brisket is done cooking?
The brisket is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 195-205°F for optimal tenderness. It should easily pull apart with a fork. If using a slow cooker, cooking on low for 6 hours typically yields perfect results, but always check for the desired tenderness.
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).