Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with Garlic and Onions

Slow Cooker Beef Brisket makes for a meltingly tender and flavourful dish that’s sure to impress at dinnertime. By combining garlic, onions, and a few aromatic spices, you’ll have a succulent brisket that practically cooks itself. This recipe is perfect for busy days or when you want a comforting, home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow the steps below for a hearty, comforting meal that’s full of deep, rich flavours.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with Garlic and Onions

• 1.5 – 2 kg beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced or finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup beef stock (low-sodium if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (reduced-salt if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano (optional, for extra herbal notes)

Optional Additions

• 1 carrot, peeled and diced (for sweetness and extra flavour)
• 1 bay leaf (for subtle earthy notes)
• Fresh herbs (like parsley) for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Brisket

1. Pat the beef brisket dry with kitchen paper to remove any excess moisture.
2. If you notice any large pieces of fat on the surface, trim them away carefully.

2. Season and Sear

1. In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Rub this seasoning mix all over the brisket, pressing gently to ensure it adheres.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
4. Place the seasoned brisket in the hot pan and sear each side for 2–3 minutes, or until nicely browned. This step locks in flavours and adds a caramelised crust.

3. Prepare the Onion and Garlic Base

1. Once the brisket is seared, remove it from the pan and set it aside.
2. In the same pan, add the thinly sliced onions. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions start to soften and pick up some of the browned bits.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute more. Take care not to let the garlic burn.

4. Deglaze and Build Flavour

1. Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to cook for about 30 seconds to reduce any acidity.
2. Add the beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce to the pan. Stir well to loosen any browned bits from the bottom.
3. If adding carrot or bay leaf, place them in now.
4. Season with dried thyme or oregano if desired. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.

5. Transfer to the Slow Cooker

1. Place the seared brisket into the slow cooker.
2. Carefully pour the onion-garlic-stock mixture over the brisket, ensuring the meat is at least partially submerged.
3. Cover the slow cooker with its lid.

6. Slow Cook

1. Set the slow cooker to low for 8–10 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
2. The beef brisket is ready when it’s fork-tender and easily shredded with minimal pressure.
3. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the brisket once fully cooked and turn the slow cooker to high, letting the sauce cook uncovered for about 15–20 minutes to reduce.

7. Slice or Shred and Serve

1. Transfer the brisket to a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to slice it against the grain for more tender pieces. Alternatively, shred it with two forks if you prefer a pulled-beef style.
2. Spoon some of the onion-garlic sauce over the slices or shredded brisket.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair your Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered noodles.
• Include a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for balance.
• Serve any leftover sauce in a gravy boat or small bowl at the table for extra flavour.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Beef Brisket

• Choose the Right Cut: Brisket is a tough cut that benefits from slow, gentle cooking. Make sure to pick a piece with good marbling to keep the meat moist.
• Marinate Overnight: For an even deeper flavour, season the brisket and refrigerate it overnight before cooking.
• Check the Liquid Level: If your slow cooker runs hot or if you’re cooking on high, you may need to add more stock or water during cooking to prevent the sauce from drying out.
• Rest the Meat: Allow the brisket to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step helps lock in the juices.
• Keep Leftovers: Shredded brisket makes an excellent filling for sandwiches, tacos, or even a hearty hash the next day.

Enjoy this Slow Cooker Beef Brisket with Garlic and Onions as a comforting, fuss-free meal that delivers big on flavour and texture. The tender beef, aromatic onions, and fragrant garlic combine to create a dish that’s sure to become a family favourite.