This Brown Sugar Dijon Corned Beef Brisket is a tasty twist on a classic dish! With sweet brown sugar and tangy Dijon mustard, it’s a flavor party you don’t want to miss.
Honestly, this brisket makes me feel like a kitchen hero. The smell while it cooks is just amazing! Pair it with some veggies, and you’ve got a meal everyone will love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef Brisket: This is the star of the dish! A good-quality, trimmed brisket is ideal. If you’re looking for a leaner option, a round roast can substitute, but it won’t have the same flavor depth.
Brown Sugar: This ingredient adds sweetness and caramelization to your brisket. If you don’t have brown sugar, use white sugar mixed with a bit of molasses. This creates a similar flavor profile.
Dijon Mustard: Provides that tangy kick in the glaze. If you prefer milder flavors, consider yellow mustard or honey mustard as alternatives.
Beef Broth: Using beef broth enhances the meaty flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-sodium chicken broth works too. Vegetable broth can be used for a different but tasty take.
Onion and Garlic: Both add significant flavor. For a sweeter taste, you could use shallots instead of onions. If you’re out of fresh garlic, a teaspoon of garlic powder can work in a pinch.
How Do I Ensure My Brisket Is Tender?
Achieving a tender brisket takes some time, but the process is straightforward. Slow-cooking is key here. Follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) before placing the brisket inside.
- Cook it covered in the broth for 3-4 hours. This low and slow method allows collagen to break down and results in tender, juicy meat.
- Let the brisket rest after cooking. This helps retain the juices, ensuring every slice is moist.
- Slice against the grain. A sharp knife works best to get thin slices that are easy to chew.
These tips will help you produce a delicious brisket that’s perfect for your next meal!
How to Make Brown Sugar Dijon Corned Beef Brisket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4-5 pounds corned beef brisket, trimmed
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
- 4 cups water
- 2 cups beef broth (or enough to cover brisket)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious brisket takes about 20 minutes of preparation time and 3-4 hours of slow cooking in the oven. Don’t forget to let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing! So, plan to spend a total of around 4 hours for this tasty meal, but trust me, it’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Brisket:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Pat the corned beef brisket dry with paper towels to help the glaze stick better.
2. Make the Sweet Glaze:
In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar and Dijon mustard until they are well combined. This will be a sweet and tangy glaze that really enhances the flavor of the brisket.
3. Season Your Brisket:
Rub the brown sugar Dijon mixture all over the surface of the corned beef brisket. Press lightly so it sticks nicely to the meat.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Slice the onion and lay it evenly across the bottom of a large roasting pan or deep baking dish. This will create a flavorful bed for the brisket. Place the glazed brisket on top, making sure the fat side is facing up.
5. Add Flavorful Liquids:
Pour the water and beef broth around (not over) the brisket so the glaze stays intact. Toss in the smashed garlic cloves, black peppercorns, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
6. Cook the Brisket:
Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Cook it low and slow for about 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender.
7. Rest and Slice:
Once cooked, remove the brisket from the oven. Let it rest, covered loosely with foil, for about 15 minutes. This helps keep it juicy. After resting, slice the brisket against the grain into thin slices.
8. Serve with Style:
Arrange the sliced brisket on a platter, including some of the onions from the pan. Spoon any delicious pan juices over the slices and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color.
9. Pair It Up:
For a complete meal, consider serving it with mashed potatoes, cabbage, or your favorite sides. Enjoy your flavorful brown sugar Dijon corned beef brisket!
This recipe beautifully balances the savory and sweet flavors, resulting in a moist and delicious dish that’s perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
While corned beef brisket is the traditional choice for this recipe, you can substitute it with a round roast for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
What Should I Do if My Brisket Is Tough?
If your brisket isn’t tender after the initial cooking time, it likely needs more time. Cover it back up and continue cooking in the oven, checking every 30 minutes until it reaches fork-tender goodness!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the microwave or cover it with foil in the oven at a low temperature to prevent drying out.
Can I Prepare This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, follow the same steps for preparing the glaze and seasoning the brisket, then place everything in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours until tender.
