Slow Cooker Brisket Recipe

The Perfect Slow Cooker Brisket Recipe for Melt-in-Your-Mouth Meat

Crafting a mouthwatering slow cooker brisket that melts in your mouth isn’t just cooking, it’s an art form.

Tender meat transforms into a culinary masterpiece with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Busy home cooks appreciate how simple ingredients create something extraordinary.

Patience becomes your secret weapon when preparing this classic comfort dish.

Every bite promises a rich, deeply satisfying experience that connects you to generations of home cooking traditions.

Meat lovers will fall in love with this straightforward yet incredibly delicious approach to preparing brisket.

Prepare to be amazed by how effortlessly you can create a restaurant-quality meal right in your kitchen.

Why Delia Smith Slow Cooker Brisket Is A Comfort Food Classic

Why Delia Smith Slow Cooker Brisket Is A Comfort Food Classic
  • Unlock Tender Perfection: This slow cooker brisket transforms tough meat into melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness with minimal kitchen effort.
  • Simplify Meal Prep: Combine ingredients, set the slow cooker, and walk away while a rich, flavorful dinner develops without constant monitoring.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Packed with savory seasonings and a glossy sauce, this recipe guarantees satisfied smiles from family and guests alike.
  • Zero-Fuss Cooking: Minimal prep steps and straightforward ingredients make this dish accessible for cooks of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned home chefs.

What You’ll Need For Delia Smith Slow Cooker Brisket

Main Ingredients:
  • Beef Brisket: A tender, flavorful cut of meat perfect for slow cooking and developing rich, deep flavors.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Salt, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Oregano: A classic blend of spices that enhances the natural taste of the brisket and creates a delicious outer crust.
Aromatics:
  • Garlic, Onions: Fresh ingredients that add depth and sweetness to the dish, infusing the meat with additional flavor during slow cooking.
Liquid and Sauce Components:
  • Beef Broth, Soy Sauce, Ketchup: A combination of umami-rich liquids that create a savory, slightly sweet braising liquid for the brisket.
Thickening Agent:
  • Arrowroot, Cold Water: A natural thickener used to create a glossy, rich sauce with a smooth consistency.

How To Make Delia Smith Slow Cooker Brisket

How To Make Delia Smith Slow Cooker Brisket

Step 1: Blend Magical Spice Mix

In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano to create a flavor-packed seasoning blend that will transform your brisket.

Step 2: Massage Brisket with Flavor

Generously rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the brisket, ensuring every inch is coated with the delicious seasoning. Gently place the brisket fat-side up in the slow cooker.

Step 3: Scatter Aromatic Companions

Sprinkle fresh:
  • Garlic cloves
  • Sliced onions

around and on top of the brisket to infuse extra depth of flavor.

Step 4: Create Flavor-Packed Liquid

Whisk together:
  • Beef broth
  • Soy sauce
  • Ketchup

Pour this magical liquid mixture evenly over the brisket in the slow cooker.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on LOW setting for 8 hours, allowing the brisket to become incredibly tender and absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 6: Rest and Relax

Carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and tent with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Step 7: Create Luscious Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk arrowroot with cold water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the remaining liquid in the slow cooker to create a rich, glossy sauce.

Step 8: Slice and Serve

Slice the brisket against the grain for maximum tenderness. Drizzle the thickened sauce over the top and serve immediately.

Pro Tips For Delia Smith Slow Cooker Brisket

  • Maximize Flavor Boost: Generously massage the spice rub into every inch of the brisket to ensure deep, rich seasoning throughout the meat.
  • Perfect Resting Technique: Tenting the brisket with foil allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat incredibly tender and moist after cooking.
  • Sauce Thickening Secret: Use arrowroot instead of cornstarch for a clearer, glossier sauce that won't turn cloudy or break down.
  • Slice Like a Pro: Always cut against the grain to break up muscle fibers, creating the most tender and easy-to-chew brisket slices possible.
  • Low and Slow Magic: Cooking on LOW setting for the full 8 hours ensures the brisket becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender without drying out.

Flavorful Twists On Delia Smith Slow Cooker Brisket

  • Spicy Chipotle Brisket: Replace ketchup with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy kick.
  • Herb Garden Brisket: Swap oregano for fresh rosemary, thyme, and sage for an aromatic herbal profile.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Low-Carb Option: Eliminate ketchup and replace with sugar-free tomato paste to reduce carbohydrate content.

Perfect Pairings For Delia Smith Slow Cooker Brisket

  • Robust Red Wine Match: Select a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel with strong tannins that complement the rich, meaty flavors of the brisket and cut through its fattiness.
  • Creamy Side Kick: Whip up smooth mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to absorb the savory sauce and provide a silky texture contrast against the tender meat.
  • Fresh Veggie Balance: Roast bright green vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts with garlic and olive oil to add a crisp, light element that refreshes the palate between hearty brisket bites.

Storing Delia Smith Slow Cooker Brisket Safely

  • Store leftover brisket in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Slice meat before refrigerating to help it cool faster and prevent bacterial growth. Stays fresh for 3-4 days when properly sealed.
  • Wrap brisket tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Place in freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Freezes excellently for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
  • Place sliced brisket in microwave-safe dish. Add 2-3 tablespoons of reserved cooking sauce. Cover with damp paper towel. Heat on 50% power for 1-2 minutes, stirring midway to ensure even warming.
  • Preheat oven to 325°F.

Questions About Delia Smith Slow Cooker Brisket

  • Why is it important to rub the seasoning on both sides of the brisket?

Rubbing seasoning on both sides ensures the meat is fully flavored and develops a delicious crust that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

  • What does cooking the brisket fat-side up do?

Cooking fat-side up helps the meat stay moist by allowing the fat to slowly melt and baste the meat during the long, slow cooking process, resulting in a tender and juicy brisket.

  • Why should I slice the brisket against the grain?

Slicing against the grain cuts through the muscle fibers, making the meat more tender and easier to chew, which prevents the brisket from being tough or chewy.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Slow Cooker Brisket Recipe

Slow Cooker Brisket Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Mouthwatering slow cooker brisket delivers rich Texas-style comfort straight to dinner tables. Tender meat infused with smoky spices melts perfectly with minimal effort, promising a hearty meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Meat:

  • 3.5 pounds beef brisket (not corned)

Spices and Seasonings:

  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

Liquid and Sauce Ingredients:

  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tablespoon arrowroot powder
  • 3 tablespoons cold water

Instructions

  1. Blend aromatic spices of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano into a unified seasoning mixture.
  2. Thoroughly massage seasoning blend across entire surface of brisket, ensuring complete coverage.
  3. Position brisket in slow cooker with fat layer facing upward for optimal moisture retention.
  4. Scatter fresh garlic cloves and sliced onions around and over the meat to enhance flavor profile.
  5. Create a savory liquid base by whisking broth, soy sauce, and ketchup until thoroughly combined.
  6. Gently pour liquid mixture over brisket, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
  7. Set slow cooker to LOW temperature and allow meat to tenderize for 8 hours, developing rich depth of taste.
  8. After cooking, carefully transfer brisket to resting surface and tent with aluminum foil for 15-20 minutes to redistribute internal juices.
  9. Transform cooking liquid into robust sauce by mixing arrowroot with cold water to create smooth thickening agent.
  10. Stir arrowroot mixture into remaining slow cooker liquid, allowing sauce to gradually thicken and intensify.
  11. Slice brisket against grain to maximize tenderness, creating clean, even cuts.
  12. Generously drizzle prepared sauce over sliced brisket before serving, ensuring each portion is infused with concentrated flavors.

Notes

  • Trim excess fat from brisket to prevent greasy texture, leaving a thin layer for flavor and moisture.
  • Choose a well-marbled cut for more tender and juicy results, selecting prime or choice grade if possible.
  • Enhance flavor by searing brisket in a hot skillet before slow cooking to develop a rich, caramelized crust.
  • Adjust seasoning mix for dietary needs by using low-sodium broth and gluten-free soy sauce for sensitive diets.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 243 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 390 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Jackson Reid

Jackson Reid

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Single-serving recipe development
  • Global flavor fusion
  • Minimalist cooking techniques
  • Food photography and styling

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and hands-on kitchen training


Jackson’s love for cooking began one dish at a time. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Holyoke Community College’s HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he focused on what mattered most: creating recipes that are simple to follow and full of flavor.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Jackson brings together global influences and a less-is-more approach. His recipes reflect his belief that good food doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to make sense, taste great, and feel right.
When he’s not testing ingredients or adjusting seasonings, you’ll find him hiking near Asheville, exploring local markets, or chasing the best light for food photos.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star