There's something truly comforting about a slow-cooked beef brisket, especially when the weather turns chilly here in the Midwest. This savory beef brisket recipe is a family favorite, perfect for those cozy Sunday dinners when you want to gather everyone around the table. The slow cooker does all the hard work, transforming a simple cut of beef into a tender, flavorful dish that fills the house with an irresistible aroma. It's a dish that brings people together, and it's so easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy parents who still want to serve a hearty, home-cooked meal.

This savory beef brisket pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles, which soak up the delicious juices. A side of roasted vegetables, such as carrots and Brussels sprouts, adds a touch of sweetness and color to the plate. For a fresh contrast, consider serving a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette. And don't forget some warm, crusty bread to mop up all the flavorful sauce!

Servings: 6-8 servings

3-4 pounds beef brisket
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup red wine (optional)
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the brisket with salt and pepper, then sear it in the skillet until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side.

2. Transfer the brisket to the slow cooker.

3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

4. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

5. Stir in the soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, thyme, and smoked paprika.

6. Pour the mixture over the brisket in the slow cooker.

7. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the brisket is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.

8. Once cooked, remove the brisket from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

9. Serve the brisket slices with the sauce from the slow cooker drizzled over the top.

For a sweeter twist, add a cup of sliced carrots and a few halved potatoes to the slow cooker for the last 3-4 hours of cooking. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. For a gluten-free version, ensure your soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free. If you have picky eaters, you can serve the brisket with a side of ketchup or barbecue sauce for dipping, which is always a hit with the kids.

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