Irresistibly delicious, mouth-watering and rich in flavour, slow cooked BBQ brisket never disappoints. If you’re wondering what it takes to create the perfect ‘melt in your mouth’ brisket at home, this article will cover how you can achieve the perfect result every time.
Whether enjoyed at home with family or friends or at your favourite local restaurant, brisket is always a favourite for those who appreciate a top-quality meat dish.
Let’s get to it.
What is Beef Brisket?
Beef brisket comes from the breast of the cow, making it one of the larger cuts of the meat you can get. Recognised as an ideal choice for slow cooking, wood fire and smoking, brisket is in a league of its own when it comes to its amazing flavour, versatility and tenderness. Whether you choose to cook it as a whole piece of brisket or cut into the Point End or Flat End, the key is in the ‘slow cooking’ process.
As the saying goes: Low and slow is the way to go.
Different Cuts of Brisket
The first cut is known as the Point End. This part of the meat is directly attached to the rib cage and is where you’ll find the juicier, fattier and softer part of the brisket. When cooked in the slow cooker or oven, the final result is a superb, world class and rich flavoured meat that will leave you wanting more.
The Point End cut of meat is also known by other names including nose cut, point cut, thick cut or deckle. If you’re keen to experience a premium cut of brisket that is perfectly tender and delicious, this is the one you need to get your hands on.
The other cut of brisket is known as the Flat End. Although tougher and not as tender than the Point End variety, it is still widely used in a range of Asian dishes. It also contains less fat than its counterpart and is often turned into Corned Beef.
So, what is an easy way to cook Beef Brisket?
The secret to cooking the ultimate beef brisket is in the slow cooking process. Whether it’s in a traditional kitchen oven or slow cooker, the key is to cook it ‘low and slow’. This means cooking at a low temperature for up to 6-8 hours, depending on the size of the brisket. However, don’t be tempted to turn the heat up. If you’re looking for the most mouth-watering results and the best tasting brisket you’ve ever tried – ‘low and slow’ will give you the best results. Remember, you don’t want to rush perfection.
Some Tips for Cooking in the Oven
- Remove from the fridge & ensure all moisture is removed
- Add some holes to the meat in preparation for seasoning
- Marinate with salt, pepper or BBQ seasoning of your choice
- Don’t put straight into the oven
- Let the meat rest for a while at room temperature, allowing the marinade to absorb into the brisket
- If you prefer to leave the marinade on for longer, you can pop in the fridge for up to 24 hours for more flavoursome results
- Don’t forget to add at least 2 cups of liquid for every 1kg cut of brisket. Add beef stock or bone broth for extra richness and taste.
- Cook for a minimum of 4 hours if you’re in hurry. However, for best results, 8 hours is recommended.
Slow Cooker Tips
- Cooking brisket in a slow cooker is quick, easy & straightforward
- Make sure the cut fits into the slow cooker, trimming off any excess fat if desired
- Prick some holes into the meat with a fork & your seasoning of choice
- Add approx. 2-3 cups of water for up to 1kg cut of meat
- Put the cover and get cooking: low and slow for 8 hours is the recommended timeframe.
Using a slow cooker or oven are easy ways to cook mouth-watering brisket
Slow cooked brisket at home is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Cooking over gentle heat is one of the best ways to break down the tough fibres in the meat, creating a juicy, tender and flavoursome brisket that is irresistible. Jimmy Brisket is an ‘award winning’ BBQ catering service that is committed to delivering some of the best Texan style BBQ experiences across the Melbourne region. Get in touch with us today to arrange catering for your next event.
