Olivia Carter
If you’re a meat lover and enjoy the smoky, tender flavors of BBQ brisket, then you’re in for a treat. We’ve got the perfect recipe to make mouthwatering BBQ brisket right in your slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for those who don’t have access to a smoker or grill, but still want to enjoy the rich flavors of slow-cooked meat.
The key to creating the best BBQ brisket is all in the rub and cooking time. We’ll guide you through a simple yet delicious rub recipe that will enhance the flavors of the meat, and then show you how to cook it low and slow in your slow cooker. The result will be a tender, juicy brisket that falls apart with a touch of your fork.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply want a flavorful dinner option, this slow cooker BBQ brisket recipe is a winner. Gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and get ready to impress your family and friends with a plate of delicious, melt-in-your-mouth brisket.
Choosing the right cut of brisket
When it comes to making the best BBQ brisket in a slow cooker, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. The cut of brisket you choose will determine the tenderness and flavor of the final dish.
Point cut brisket: This cut of meat is known for its abundance of marbling, which adds plenty of flavor and moisture to the finished dish. It is usually more tender than the flat cut and is often preferred by BBQ enthusiasts.
Flat cut brisket: Also known as the center cut or the first cut, this is a leaner cut of meat compared to the point cut. It has less marbling and is generally more uniform in shape. The flat cut is a popular choice for slicing as it yields even slices with a beautiful presentation.
When selecting a brisket, look for one that has a good amount of fat marbling throughout the meat. This will ensure that the final dish is tender and juicy. Additionally, consider the size of the brisket – a larger brisket will take longer to cook, so keep that in mind when planning your meal.
Overall, the choice between the point cut and flat cut brisket depends on your personal preference, as both cuts can result in delicious and tender BBQ brisket. Whichever cut you choose, make sure to properly season and prepare the meat before slow cooking to achieve the best possible flavor and texture.
Preparing the Brisket for Slow Cooking
Before slow cooking the brisket, it is important to properly prepare the meat to ensure a juicy and flavorful end result. Here are a few steps to follow when getting your brisket ready for the slow cooker.
1. Trim excess fat: Start by trimming any excess fat from the brisket. While some fat is necessary for flavor, removing too much can prevent the meat from drying out during the long cooking process.
2. Season with rub: Next, create a flavorful rub for your brisket. This can include spices such as paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar. Generously coat the brisket with the rub, making sure to cover all sides.
3. Let it marinate: After applying the rub, it is best to let the brisket marinate for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and tenderize it further.
4. Sear the brisket: Before transferring the brisket to the slow cooker, it is recommended to sear the meat on all sides. This step helps to lock in the juices and create a flavorful crust.
5. Slow cook: Finally, transfer the brisket to the slow cooker and set it on low heat. Slow cooking allows the meat to become tender and juicy over the course of several hours. It is important to not rush the process and let the slow cooker work its magic.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your brisket is well-prepared and ready for a delicious slow cooking experience.
Creating a Flavourful Dry Rub
One of the key elements in making a delicious barbecue brisket is a well-seasoned dry rub. A dry rub is a mixture of various spices and herbs that are applied to the meat before cooking, allowing it to infuse with flavor. There are countless variations of dry rubs, but the best ones often include a combination of sweet, savory, and smoky ingredients.
Choosing the right spices: When creating your dry rub, it’s important to choose spices that complement each other and enhance the natural flavors of the brisket. Common spices used in a dry rub for brisket include paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper. Each spice brings its own unique element to the rub, creating a balanced and complex flavor profile.
Getting the proportions right: Finding the perfect balance of spices is crucial for a successful dry rub. Too much of one spice can overpower the others, while too little can result in a bland and unexciting flavor. It’s all about finding the right ratio that suits your personal taste preferences. Experimenting with different amounts of each spice can help you achieve a rub that is tailored to your liking.
Applying the dry rub: Once you have created your dry rub, the next step is to apply it to the brisket. Start by patting the brisket dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Sprinkle the rub evenly over the entire surface, making sure to coat all sides. Gently press the rub into the meat to help it adhere. The rub will form a crust on the exterior of the brisket, locking in all the flavors as it cooks low and slow.
Allowing the rub to marinate: For the best results, let the dry rub marinate on the brisket for at least a few hours, or even overnight. This will give the flavors a chance to penetrate the meat and intensify. You can wrap the brisket tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a resealable plastic bag to keep the rub in contact with the meat. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the final result will be.
Conclusion: Creating a flavorful dry rub is an essential step in making a mouth-watering barbecue brisket. By carefully selecting the right spices, finding the perfect ratios, and allowing the rub to marinate, you can enhance the natural flavours of the meat and take your brisket to the next level.
Applying the Dry Rub to the Brisket
One of the key steps in preparing a delicious slow cooker BBQ brisket is applying the dry rub. The dry rub is a mixture of spices that adds flavor and enhances the taste of the meat. It forms a crust on the outside of the brisket as it cooks, giving it a mouthwatering flavor.
To apply the dry rub, start by patting the brisket dry with paper towels. This will help the rub adhere to the meat better. Next, generously sprinkle the dry rub onto all sides of the brisket, making sure to cover it evenly. You can use your hands to gently press the rub into the meat, ensuring that the flavors penetrate the surface.
A typical dry rub for BBQ brisket may include a combination of ingredients such as paprika, brown sugar, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Feel free to adjust the quantities of each ingredient to suit your taste preferences. Once the brisket is generously coated with the dry rub, it’s time to move on to the next step of the cooking process.
The Art of Slow Cooking Brisket
Slow cooking is the key to achieving a tender and flavorful brisket. By cooking the meat at a low temperature for an extended period of time, the connective tissues break down, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This method allows the meat to absorb all the flavors of the marinade and spices, creating a delicious and succulent dish.
Choosing the right cut of brisket is essential for a successful slow-cooked brisket. Look for a well-marbled piece of meat with a good amount of fat, as this will help keep the meat juicy during the long cooking process. A brisket with a consistent thickness is also preferable, as it will cook more evenly.
Preparing the brisket involves a few important steps. First, marinate the meat overnight in a flavorful spice rub or marinade. This will infuse the brisket with delicious flavors and help tenderize the meat. Before placing it in the slow cooker, sear the brisket on all sides to develop a rich crust and enhance the overall taste.
Cooking the brisket in a slow cooker requires patience. Set the cooker on low heat and let the meat cook for several hours until it reaches the desired tenderness. Avoid opening the lid too frequently, as this will disrupt the cooking process and increase the cooking time. Basting the brisket with the cooking liquid occasionally will help keep it moist and flavorful.
Serving the slow-cooked brisket is a moment of anticipation. Once the brisket is tender and juicy, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and succulent dish. Serve the brisket sliced, with the cooking liquid drizzled on top, and accompanied by your favorite barbecue sauce and sides.
Creating an Impressive Barbecue Sauce for Your Brisket
If you want to impress your guests with a mouthwatering barbecue brisket, one of the key elements is the sauce. A well-crafted barbecue sauce can elevate the flavors of the meat and make it truly unforgettable. Here are some tips to help you make the perfect barbecue sauce for your slow-cooked brisket in a slow cooker.
1. Balance the flavors:
The foundation of a great barbecue sauce lies in achieving the right balance of flavors. You want a blend of tangy, sweet, and savory notes that complement the rich flavor of the brisket. Experiment with a combination of ingredients like ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, onion, and spices to find the perfect balance for your taste buds.
2. Incorporate depth and complexity:
To create a barbecue sauce that stands out from the rest, consider adding ingredients that add depth and complexity to the flavors. For example, you can include ingredients like molasses, chipotle peppers, smoked paprika, or even a touch of bourbon to give your sauce a unique and unforgettable twist. These additional flavors will help take your barbecue sauce to the next level and make it truly exceptional.
3. Achieve the right consistency:
The consistency of the barbecue sauce is also important. You want a sauce that clings to the meat without being too thick or runny. To achieve the perfect consistency, you can adjust the amount of liquid ingredients like vinegar or Worcestershire sauce, or thicken the sauce with tomato paste or cornstarch. It’s a delicate balance, so make sure to taste and adjust as needed until you reach the desired consistency.
By following these tips, you can create a barbecue sauce that complements your slow-cooked brisket perfectly. With a well-balanced flavor profile, depth and complexity, and the right consistency, your sauce will be a standout element of your barbecue experience. So fire up the slow cooker, get creative with your ingredients, and impress your guests with a truly unforgettable barbecue sauce.
Serving and enjoying your slow cooker brisket
After patiently waiting for your slow cooker brisket to cook to tender perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious barbecue dish. Here are some tips and ideas for making the most of your slow cooker brisket:
Slicing and serving: Let the brisket rest for about 15 minutes before slicing it. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more moist and flavorful brisket. Slice the brisket against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve it on a platter, and garnish it with some fresh herbs or thinly sliced onions for added freshness and visual appeal.
Side dishes: Slow cooker brisket pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Some classic options include coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, and potato salad. You can also serve it with some pickles or pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast to the rich and smoky flavors of the brisket.
Sauce options: While slow cooker brisket is flavorful on its own, you can enhance the taste even further with some barbecue sauce. You can either brush the sauce on the sliced brisket or serve it on the side for dipping. There are many types of barbecue sauce available, such as sweet and tangy, spicy, or smoky. Choose your favorite or offer a selection for your guests to choose from.
Leftovers: Slow cooker brisket makes great leftovers. Store any remaining brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will continue to meld, making the brisket even more delicious the next day. You can use the leftovers in sandwiches, tacos, quesadillas, or omelettes. The possibilities are endless!
In conclusion, slow cooker brisket is a crowd-pleasing barbecue dish that rewards your patience with tender and flavorful meat. By following the steps outlined in this recipe, you’ll be able to create a mouthwatering brisket that will be the star of any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a party or enjoying it as a family meal, the slow cooker brisket is sure to impress. So, fire up your slow cooker and get ready to indulge in this delectable dish!
10 Best Bbq Brisket Recipe Slow Cooker
Hamilton Beach Slow Cooker, Extra Large 10 Quart, Stay or Go Portable With Lid Lock, Dishwasher Safe Crock, Black (33195)
Features
| Part Number | 33195 |
| Model | 33195 |
| Warranty | One(1) Year Warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 10 Quarts |
- PERFECT FOR A LARGE GATHERING: The 10 quart slow cooker lets you cook enough food for a gathering of 12 or more people and fits a 10 lb. turkey or a 12 lb. roast.
- REDUCE SPILLS: The lid clips tightly to the slow cooker handles to reduce messy spills when transporting food. Carry hot meals to family gatherings, potlucks or to serve at the table without worrying about spills.
- COOK FLAVORFUL MEALS WITH MINIMAL EFFORT: This Hamilton Beach slow cooker has simple controls that make it easy for you to create flavorful meals with minimal effort and great results. Just turn the dial. No watching needed.
- MAINTAIN THE IDEAL TEMPERATURE WITH 3 HEAT SETTINGS: Just turn the dial to choose from 3 heat settings. Cook your meal on Low or High, and then switch to Warm when cooking is complete for food that's warm and ready when it's time to eat.
- EASY TO CARRY WITH FULL-GRIP HANDLES: The large slow cooker is easy to lift and hold onto when carrying to the table to serve a meal or when taking food to gatherings.
- SIMPLE TO CLEAN: The removable stoneware crock and glass lid are dishwasher safe for easy cleanup.
Instant Pot Pro (8 QT) 10-in-1 Pressure Cooker, Slow Cooker, Rice/Grain Cooker, Steamer, Sauté, Sous Vide, Yogurt Maker, Sterilizer, and Warmer, Includes App...
Features
| Part Number | 113-0044-01 |
| Model | 113-0044-01 |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2021-03-22T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 8 Quarts |
- 10-IN-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Pressure cook, slow cook, sous vide, sauté pan, rice, sterilizer, yogurt maker, food warmer, cake baker and steamer..Voltage : 120 volts.
- THE MOST VERSITILE: The ONLY Multi-Cooker with a Premium Cookware Grade Inner Pot with Stay-Cool Silicone Handles. - Meaning you can take it from your Insta Pot to your stove top!
- CONVENIENT FAVORITES: 5 programmable settings for your own special recipes along with 28 program settings that are perfect for a selection of essential meals
- FAST OR SLOW: Pressure cook to save time and retain more flavor, or slow cook for traditional recipes.
- SAFETY FEATURES: Overheat Protection, safe locking lid, upgraded gentle steam release switch with diffusing cover to reduce noise and prevent splashing on the counter, and more.
- PERFECT FOR LARGER FAMILIES: Cook for up to 8 people – perfect for larger families, or meal prepping and batch cooking for singles and smaller families
- TOP COOKING PERFORMANCE - 20% higher power for a better sauté/sear and shorter pre-heat time, compared to other Electronic Pressure Cookers on the market.Inner pot is made from cookware-grade stainless steel (18/8) with an extra-thick 3.5mm aluminum layer for faster, more efficient heating and flat bottom for optimal searing and sautéing.
- GENTLE STEAM RELEASE: The diffusing cover reduces noise and prevents countertop splash.
- INCLUDED ACCESSORIES: An extra sealing ring and stainless-steel steamer rack with handles. Compatible with optional QuickCool Tray (sold separately) that allows 50% faster steam release.
- DISCOVER AMAZING RECIPES: Includes the free Instant Brands Connect App, where you can find new recipes to create quick favorites and prepare delicious meals, available for iOS and Android.
Nesco 18 Quart Roaster Slow Cooker - Red
Features
| Part Number | MWR18-12 |
| Model | MWR18-12 |
| Warranty | Warranty |
| Color | Red |
| Release Date | 2018-02-15T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 18 Quarts |
- 1450 heating base, 18 quart capacity
- Removable cookwell with integrated side handles
- Full-range temperature control (200°F-450°F)
- Durable porcelain enamel finish
- Includes cooking rack with lift-out handles
Hamilton Beach 9-in-1 Digital Programmable Slow Cooker with 6 quart Nonstick Crock, Sear, Saute, Steam, Rice Functions, Stainless Steel (33065)
Features
| Part Number | 33065 |
| Model | 33065 |
| Warranty | Warranty |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2018-02-22T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 6 Quarts |
| Edition | SLOW_COOKER |
- 9 COOKING OPTIONS. Cook a wide variety of foods multiple ways with this versatile multi pot. You can slow cook on high or low, sear, brown, sauté, roast, steam, cook rice and grains or keep food warm for up to 12 hours.
- SEAR RIGHT IN THE POT. Sear, brown or sauté right in the nonstick pot to improve the color and flavor of every dish you make. The sear/brown and sauté settings are especially useful for improving food's color and flavor before slow cooking and roasting.
- GREAT FOR ROASTING CHICKEN, BEEF, TURKEY AND HAM: Roast meat to the perfect tenderness every time. Simply place meat on top of the rack in the pot and set roasting time up to 3 hours. When food is ready, it automatically switches to warm.
- SERVES 7+ PEOPLE WITH 6 QUART CAPACITY: The large 6 quart pot fits a whole 6 lb. chicken or 4 lb. roast. The removable rectangular pot provides ample room for large cuts of meat and has handles for easy carrying and serving.
- COUNTDOWN TIMER: With this multi cooker, you can set your own time and temperature for most programs in an instant. The cooking timer counts down on the screen and when the cooking is up, it automatically switches to warm.
Crock-Pot 7-Quart Slow Cooker, Portable Programmable with Timer, Locking Lid, Stainless Steel; an Essential Kitchen Appliance, Perfect for Families and...
Features
| Part Number | CPSCVTS70LL-S |
| Model | CPSCVTS70LL-S |
| Color | Stainless Steel |
| Size | 7 Quarts |
- Personalized Cooking: MyTime adjusts the cooking cycle so your meal is ready exactly when you want it
- Leak-proof Lid: Travel-proof locking lid provides a tight seal to prevent leaks and spills
- Large Capacity: Fitted with a 7-quart bowl that serves 7+ people - perfect for families or gatherings
- Temperature Control: Auto-adjustment cooking cycle ensures meals are never overcooked but always flavor-filled
- Intuitive Control: Flat digital control screen lets you schedule meal times, and manually control cook time and temperature
- Convenient Handles: 'Cook and Carry' handles for hassle-free lifting and carrying
- Sustainable Materials: Made of Aluminum, Stainless Steel (Iron, Chromium, Nickel, Manganese, Copper, Phosphorus), and is 100% recyclable.
FAQ
What is a slow cooker?
A slow cooker is a countertop kitchen appliance used for slow cooking food at a low temperature over a longer period of time. It is also known as a crock-pot.
How do I serve my slow cooker brisket?
You can serve your slow cooker brisket by slicing it thinly against the grain and serving it with the cooking juices as a gravy. You can also serve it on sandwiches or in tacos for a different twist.
Conclusion
In conclusion, serving and enjoying slow cooker brisket is a delightful culinary experience. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become tender and infused with delicious flavours. Whether you enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or with a side of mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds. With minimal effort and maximum flavour, the slow cooker brisket is a go-to recipe for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to indulge in the mouthwatering goodness of slow-cooked brisket.
