There’s something irresistible about making and eating Martha Stewart’s beef brisket recipe—it combines simplicity with rich flavors!
You might be drawn in by the luxury of braising brisket with ingredients like red wine or beer, but what really stands out is the perfect tenderness achieved by letting the flavors meld over time.
Season generously with coarse salt and freshly ground pepper before cooking for an incredible boost in flavor.
Cooking brisket slowly transforms a tough cut into a tender, aromatic masterpiece.
How to Make Martha Stewart Beef Brisket Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Beef Brisket (5 lbs.)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 cups Beef Broth
- 1 cup Red Wine
- 1 Onion (sliced)
- 4 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 Bay Leaves
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Preheat your oven to 300 degrees to allow even cooking throughout.
Step 2:
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and brown the brisket for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side.
Step 3:
Remove the brisket from the pot and set it aside. Add onion, garlic, and tomato paste to the pot, cooking until the onion is soft.
Step 4:
Return the brisket to the pot, add the beef broth, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, and bay leaves. Cover the pot and place it in the oven.
Step 5:
Cook for 3 to 4 hours until the brisket is fork-tender. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Choosing the Right Brisket:
Select a brisket with some marbling as this fat will help keep the meat juicy during cooking.
Flavor Enhancement:
If you want an extra punch of flavor, marinate the brisket in red wine and garlic overnight.
Onions and Garlic:
Slice the onions evenly for consistent cooking, and ensure the garlic is finely minced to distribute flavor.
Cooking Speed:
Use a slow cooker instead of the oven for convenience, setting it on low for 8 hours. Check out the Pioneer Woman’s slow cooker brisket recipe for this!
Slicing Technique:
Always slice the brisket against the grain for tender and easy-to-chew pieces.
What to Serve with Martha Stewart Beef Brisket Recipe
Classic Coleslaw
Coleslaw is always a classic partner for beef brisket!
With its crunchy texture and tangy dressing, this side dish cuts through the rich flavors of the meat and balances everything nicely.
You can make it a little different by adding apple slices or toasted pecans.
Corn on the Cob
Nothing says comfort food like buttery corn on the cob.
It’s quick to prepare and complements the savory brisket beautifully with its sweet and juicy kernels.
For an extra kick, sprinkle cayenne or paprika on top.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic is one of those classic pairings you can’t go wrong with.
They soak up all the delicious brisket juices on the plate, adding a luscious texture to your meal.
Don’t forget to add a pat of butter before serving for extra flavor.
Grilled Asparagus
If you’re looking for something on the lighter side, grilled asparagus is a great choice.
The charred flavor adds a nice smoky element that pairs wonderfully with the beef.
Just a squeeze of lemon over the top and a sprinkle of Parmesan will transform this simple side.
Garlic and Herb Roasted Carrots
Roasted carrots with garlic and herbs are a slightly sweet and aromatic option.
The roasting process brings out their natural sugars, enhancing the dish perfectly alongside brisket.
You might find adding a touch of balsamic vinegar before roasting takes them to the next level.
Couscous Salad
For an out-of-the-ordinary twist, consider a Mediterranean couscous salad.
With ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta, it’s fresh and full of bright flavors.
If you’re feeling adventurous, throw in some pomegranate seeds for a burst of sweetness.
Variations and Substitutions
Using Different Cuts
If you can’t find brisket, you can try using chuck roast or short ribs.
These cuts work well because they become tender and flavorful with slow cooking.
Flavor Adjustments
For a more intense flavor, swap out the chicken broth with beef broth.
Also, consider adding a splash of red wine for depth and richness.
Spice Options
Experiment with spices like paprika or cumin for a different twist.
Adding a bit of smoked paprika can also give a smoky note without a smoker.
Sweetness Level
To adjust the sweetness, vary the brown sugar or substitute with honey.
Using maple syrup can provide a unique, rich sweetness as well.
Vegetables Alternative
If you don’t like carrots, substitute them with parsnips or potatoes.
These veggies soak up the flavor well and complement the meat beautifully.
Sauce Variation
Instead of chili sauce, try using tomato paste with a dash of hot sauce.
This will keep the dish tangy but adds a spicier kick!
Be creative and have fun customizing your brisket!
How to Store Leftover Beef Brisket
Cool Before Storing
Make sure your leftover brisket is cooled to room temperature before storing.
You don’t want to trap steam inside, as this can lead to condensation and soggy meat.
Refrigerator Storage
Wrap your leftover brisket tightly in foil or plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
Place it in an airtight container if possible to avoid absorbing fridge odors.
Your brisket will be good in the fridge for up to four days.
Freezer Storage
For longer storage, freeze your brisket by wrapping it in heavy-duty foil or freezer paper.
Then, place it in a sealable freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Properly stored, it should be good for up to three months in the freezer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overcooking the Brisket
You might be tempted to cook the brisket quickly, but that leads to a tough texture.
It’s important to remember that brisket needs a slow and steady cooking process.
Keep the oven at a low temperature and let it cook in the marinade for maximum tenderness.
Skipping Rest Time
After cooking, it’s crucial to let your brisket rest before slicing.
This helps retain juices, keeping every slice succulent.
Wrap it in aluminum foil and let it sit for at least 15 minutes to lock in the flavors.
Ignoring Seasoning
Don’t shy away from seasoning—it’s your brisket’s best friend!
Use a generous amount of salt, pepper, and any other spices Martha recommends for a dense flavor.
Seasoning properly enhances the taste and complements the rich meatiness of the brisket.
Martha Stewart Beef Brisket Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Beef Brisket 5 lbs.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 cups Beef Broth
- 1 cup Red Wine
- 1 Onion sliced
- 4 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black Pepper
- 2 Bay Leaves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit to allow even cooking throughout.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and brown the brisket for about 4 to 5 minutes on each side.
- Remove the brisket from the pot and set it aside. Add onion, garlic, and tomato paste to the pot, cooking until the onion is soft.
- Return the brisket to the pot, add the beef broth, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, and bay leaves. Cover the pot and place it in the oven.
- Cook for 3 to 4 hours until the brisket is fork-tender. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.