Why Make This Recipe
Holiday Beef Brisket is a classic dish that can elevate any holiday gathering. It brings warmth, flavor, and a sense of tradition to the table. The rich taste of slow-cooked beef paired with the sweetness of cranberry sauce creates a unique blend that guests will love. This dish is not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends.
One of the standout features of this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice cooks can achieve delicious results. The hands-off cooking method makes it a great choice for busy holiday schedules. You can prepare it in advance and simply heat it up before serving, which makes meal prep stress-free.
Equipment Needed for Holiday Beef Brisket
To create the perfect Holiday Beef Brisket, you will need some essential equipment. Having the right tools will ensure that the cooking process goes smoothly and the end result is delicious.
First, a large slow cooker is crucial. This will allow the brisket to cook evenly and thoroughly. Additionally, using a sharp knife for slicing the brisket is important to achieve clean cuts that showcase the tenderness of the meat. You’ll also need measuring spoons for accurate seasoning and a sturdy cutting board to prepare your ingredients.
Finally, it’s helpful to have foil and oven-proof dishes for the final steps of preparation. With these tools, you will be set up for success in making this delightful holiday dish.
What You Need to Make Holiday Beef Brisket
- 4-5 lb flat-cut beef brisket
- 1 package Lipton Onion Soup Mix
- 1 14 oz. can of cranberry sauce or jelly
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Cook Holiday Beef Brisket Step by Step
To begin, prepare the beef brisket by sprinkling it generously with salt and pepper. This seasoning will enhance the natural flavors of the meat and is crucial for a delicious end result.
Next, place the seasoned brisket in a large slow cooker. This convenient cooking method will ensure that the brisket becomes tender and juicy as it cooks. Once the brisket is in the slow cooker, evenly sprinkle one packet of Lipton Onion Soup Mix over the top. The onion soup mix adds a depth of flavor that complements the meat beautifully.
Now, take the cranberry sauce and cut it into chunks. This will make it easier to distribute throughout the cooking process. Add the cranberry chunks to the slow cooker, letting them mix with the brisket and soup mix.
Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for about eight hours. This gentle cooking method allows the brisket to slowly break down, becoming fork-tender and rich in flavor. After eight hours, you should find that the brisket is tender enough to pull apart easily with a fork.
Once done, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and place it on a plate. Allow it to cool slightly before wrapping it tightly in aluminum foil. This will help retain moisture and flavor. Place the wrapped brisket in the refrigerator if you’re planning to serve it later.
Next, take the liquid left in the slow cooker. Pour it into a tight-fitting container and refrigerate it as well. This cooking liquid, filled with flavor, will be used later to enhance the brisket’s taste during reheating.
When it’s time to serve the Holiday Beef Brisket, slice the chilled meat against the grain. This cutting technique is important as it ensures that each bite is tender. Arrange the slices in an oven-proof dish and take the solidified excess fat off the top of the refrigerated liquid. Pour this flavorful juice over the beef slices.
Cover the dish with foil and heat it in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until it’s hot and bubbly. This reheating process not only warms the meat but also infuses it with the delicious flavors of the sauce. When it’s ready, remove it from the oven, and you’ll have a holiday centerpiece that’s sure to impress.
How to Serve Holiday Beef Brisket
When serving Holiday Beef Brisket, presentation is key. Place the beautifully sliced beef on a large serving platter. Make sure to pour some of the cooking liquid over the top to keep the meat moist and add flavor.
Accompany it with a serving spoon for easy plating. Guests can help themselves to the beef and drizzle on additional sauce as they prefer. To make the meal even more festive, garnish the platter with fresh herbs, such as rosemary or parsley, for a pop of color.
This dish is sure to be a conversation starter, so take the time to serve it elegantly. Setting the table with festive napkins, plates, and cutlery will also enhance the holiday experience. When everyone is gathered, serve the brisket alongside sides that complement its rich flavors.
What to Serve with Holiday Beef Brisket
Holiday Beef Brisket pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Classic choices include creamy mashed potatoes, which can soak up the flavorful juices from the brisket, making them a perfect companion. Roasted seasonal vegetables, like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or green beans, also add a colorful touch to the meal.
For those who enjoy texture, consider serving a crunchy coleslaw or fresh salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the beef.
Additionally, consider serving some traditional holiday bread, such as dinner rolls, to round out the meal. These can be used to mop up the delicious sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
For dessert, keep it simple with something like pumpkin pie or apple crisp to provide a sweet ending to the meal. The balance of flavors from the brisket followed by a comforting dessert encapsulates the warmth of holiday gatherings.
How to Store Holiday Beef Brisket
Storing leftover Holiday Beef Brisket is easy and will allow you to enjoy this flavorful dish beyond just the holiday. Once the brisket has cooled, it’s essential to store it properly to preserve its flavor and tenderness.
Wrap the sliced brisket tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This will help prevent air from drying it out. Place the wrapped brisket in an airtight container before putting it in the refrigerator. The brisket can typically last up to four days in the refrigerator.
If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing the brisket. To freeze, ensure it’s well-wrapped in foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a labeled freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy the delicious brisket for up to three months. Thaw frozen brisket overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Tips to Make Holiday Beef Brisket
To ensure the best results, here are some helpful tips for making Holiday Beef Brisket. Choose a quality cut of meat—look for a brisket with good marbling as this will help keep it juicy.
Don’t rush the cooking process. The longer it cooks on low heat, the more tender and flavorful it will become. If time allows, consider letting the brisket sit in the seasoned liquid overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. This can deepen the flavors even further.
Keep an eye on the brisket during the last hour of cooking to avoid overcooking. If your slow cooker tends to run hot, you may want to check on it after six hours. A fork should be able to pierce the meat easily when it’s done.
Finally, use the leftover juices. They are packed with flavor and can be drizzled over the slices or used as a base for gravy.
Variation
While the basic recipe for Holiday Beef Brisket is fantastic on its own, there are a few variations to try based on personal preferences. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the onion soup mixture. This will create a sweet and spicy combination.
If you prefer a slightly different flavor profile, you can substitute the cranberry sauce with a tangy barbecue sauce or a fruit chutney. Both options will change the taste of the dish while still retaining the essence of a holiday meal.
Additionally, if you have a different liking for herbs, experiment by adding fresh thyme or rosemary to the slow cooker. These can bring an aromatic twist to the classic dish.
Best Time to Make Holiday Beef Brisket
Holiday Beef Brisket can certainly be made well in advance of your holiday celebrations. Because it benefits from being stored for a day or two, making it a couple of days before your gathering is ideal for drawing out the flavors.
Prepared brisket can be safely stored in the refrigerator, allowing you to heat it the day of your festivities. This approach not only saves you time on the actual day but also ensures a better taste as the meat has time to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
For best results, aim to prepare your brisket on a weekday, ensuring it’s ready to enjoy over the holiday weekend.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A few common mistakes should be avoided when making Holiday Beef Brisket to achieve the best results. One of the biggest pitfalls is not seasoning the brisket adequately. Be generous with salt and pepper, as these basic seasonings can enhance the overall flavor significantly.
Another mistake is slicing the brisket the wrong way. Always cut against the grain to ensure each piece remains tender and easy to chew.
Additionally, overlooking the importance of resting the brisket post-cooking can lead to dryness. Letting it rest sealed in foil allows juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is flavorful and moist.
Finally, remember to monitor the slow cooker temperature carefully. If it’s set too high, the brisket can dry out. Slow and steady is the key.
Nutritional Notes
While indulging in a Holiday Beef Brisket, it’s useful to consider its nutritional value. Beef brisket is a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. It also contains iron, which is important for transporting oxygen in the blood.
However, it is also worth noting that brisket can be high in saturated fat. Balancing it with plenty of vegetable sides can help create a more health-conscious meal.
Making this dish means enjoying the flavor and the moments shared around the table, which is just as important as any nutritional aspect.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as chuck roast or round roast. However, brisket is preferred for its tenderness when cooked low and slow.
Can I cook this recipe in an oven instead of a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can roast the brisket in a covered pot at a low temperature in the oven. Make sure to check for tenderness, and adjust cooking time accordingly.
How do I know when the brisket is finished cooking?
The brisket is done when it is fork-tender and can be easily shredded. It should have an internal temperature of around 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit.
Conclusion
Holiday Beef Brisket is a delightful dish that fills your home with warmth and flavor during the festive season. Its tenderness and rich taste make it a recipe to be cherished. By following easy steps and keeping some helpful tips in mind, you can create a meal that impresses family and friends alike.
With the ability to prepare it ahead of time, it allows you to fully enjoy your holiday celebrations without stress. Embrace the flavors, savor the moments, and delight in serving this classic dish. Happy cooking!
Holiday Beef Brisket
Ingredients
Method
- Generously sprinkle the beef brisket with salt and pepper.
- Place the seasoned brisket in a large slow cooker.
- Evenly sprinkle the Lipton Onion Soup Mix over the brisket.
- Cut cranberry sauce into chunks and add them to the slow cooker.
- Set the slow cooker to low and cook for about eight hours.
- Carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and place it on a plate.
- Wrap the brisket tightly in aluminum foil and refrigerate.
- Pour the leftover liquid into a container and refrigerate.
- Slice the chilled brisket against the grain before serving.
- Arrange the slices in an oven-proof dish and pour the cooking liquid over it.
- Cover with foil and heat in a preheated oven at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
