Slow Cooker Texas Smoked Beef Brisket

Background and History

Texas Smoked Beef Brisket is a quintessential dish in Texan barbecue culture, celebrated for its bold flavors and tender, smoky meat. Traditionally cooked low and slow over a wood fire, this slow cooker adaptation brings the essence of authentic Texas barbecue to your kitchen with convenience.

Ingredients

3-4 pounds beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon ground black pepper

1 tablespoon salt

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

1 cup beef broth or stock

1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce

2 tablespoons liquid smoke (optional)

Useful Facts

Beef brisket comes from the lower chest of the cow and is known for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked properly.

The dry rub used in this recipe enhances the flavor of the brisket, while the liquid ingredients help to keep it moist and tender during the cooking process.

Liquid smoke is optional but adds an authentic smoky flavor to the brisket, mimicking the taste of traditional barbecue.

Instructions

In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) to make the dry rub.

Rub the dry rub all over the surface of the beef brisket, ensuring it is evenly coated.

Place the brisket in the slow cooker insert.

In another bowl, mix together the beef broth, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and liquid smoke (if using). Pour this mixture over the brisket.

Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the brisket is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Once done, remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

Serve the Texas Smoked Beef Brisket hot, accompanied by your favorite barbecue sauce and side dishes like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.

Serves

6-8

Preparation Time

15 minutes

Cooking Time

8-10 hours on low or 4-6 hours on high

Nutrition Facts

(Nutrition facts may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. Consider calculating based on your exact ingredients.)

Calories: Approximately 300-400 per serving

Total Fat: Approximately 20-30g per serving

Protein: Approximately 30-40g per serving

Carbohydrates: Approximately 0-5g per serving

Notes

For a deeper flavor, you can marinate the brisket with the dry rub overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can strain the cooking liquid and simmer it on the stove until reduced to your desired consistency.

Leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.

Allergy Warning

This recipe may contain Worcestershire sauce, which often includes anchovies. Additionally, be mindful of potential allergens in the dry rub and other ingredients. Check for any specific allergies before consuming.