A showstopping slow-cooked beef brisket infused with red wine, caramelized onions, and aromatic herbs—easy to make, yet worthy of a five-star feast!
A La Serviette Blanche favorite – Perfect for entertaining!
This succulent slow-cooked beef brisket is packed with deep, rich flavors, thanks to a perfect balance of aromatics, herbs, and a luscious red wine reduction. It was a go-to dish for informal yacht catering events at La Serviette Blanche, where guests wanted something effortless yet impressive.
The low-and-slow cooking method allows the brisket to soak up all the delicious flavors of garlic, onions, thyme, and bay leaf while melting into tender, pull-apart perfection. The added Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and brown sugar bring incredible depth, while a touch of red wine enhances the sauce for an elevated finish.
Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering, family dinner, or casual get-together, this brisket is guaranteed to be the star of the table.
RECIPE:
Serves: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-10 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (or 10 hours 15 minutes on low)
Ingredients:
1 large onion, thinly sliced
4 garlic cloves, smashed and peeled
1 4-pound first cut beef brisket (flat cut), trimmed to leave about ¼-inch fat
2 teaspoons coarse salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (adds subtle smoky depth)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (for umami richness)
1 teaspoon honey or dark brown sugar (enhances caramelization)
1½ cups low-sodium beef broth
½ cup dry red wine (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Syrah)
1 bay leaf
3-4 sprigs fresh thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano (for extra aromatic depth)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for a silky finish in the sauce)
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Build the Flavor Base
1️⃣ Sauté the aromatics (optional but recommended): Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 5 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the garlic, smoked paprika, and oregano, cooking for another minute.
2️⃣ Transfer the onions & garlic to the slow cooker.
Prepare the Brisket
3️⃣ Season the brisket generously with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce, rubbing the seasoning into the meat.
4️⃣ Sear the brisket (optional but highly recommended): Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for 2-3 minutes per side until a deep brown crust forms.
5️⃣ Place the brisket fat-side up in the slow cooker over the onions.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
6️⃣ Pour in the beef broth and red wine around the brisket. Add the bay leaf and thyme sprigs.
7️⃣ Cover and cook:
High setting: 6 hours (for a slightly firmer brisket that still shreds beautifully)
Low setting: 10 hours (for ultra-tender, fall-apart brisket)
Step 4: Enhance the Sauce
8️⃣ Remove the brisket and let it rest for 10 minutes on a cutting board.
9️⃣ Strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan, discarding the bay leaf and thyme stems. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in 2 tablespoons of butter for a rich, silky finish.
Step 5: Slice & Serve
🔟 Slice the brisket against the grain for maximum tenderness.
1️⃣1️⃣ Drizzle the reduced sauce over the meat and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
1️⃣2️⃣ Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Bonus Pro Tips for the Best Brisket Ever:
✔️ Searing is Worth It: While optional, searing locks in flavor and adds a rich, caramelized crust.
✔️ Red Wine Makes a Difference: It enhances the sauce’s depth and complements the beef beautifully.
✔️ Slow & Low Wins the Game: The longer cook time at low heat (10 hours) ensures the most fall-apart tender texture.
✔️ Leftovers Are Even Better: Refrigerate overnight, then reheat gently in its sauce for even richer flavors the next day.
Perfect Pairings for Beef Brisket:
Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes – A classic comforting side.
Parmesan Polenta – The ultimate Mediterranean pairing.
Roasted Root Vegetables – Carrots, parsnips, and potatoes roasted with rosemary.
Crusty Artisan Bread – Perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce.
Brisket Sandwiches – Layer with mustard and caramelized onions on a toasted baguette.
This slow-cooked beef brisket recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication, making it an ideal dish for both casual gatherings and elegant dinner parties. With its rich, savory depth and fall-apart tenderness, it’s a guaranteed showstopper.
This was always a fan-favorite at La Serviette Blanche, especially for intimate yacht catering events. Serve it up, pour a glass of wine, and watch as this flavor-packed brisket becomes the highlight of your meal.