Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket is a delightful, melt-in-your-mouth dish that elevates the humble brisket to a whole new level with his signature combination of flavors, spices, and slow-cooking technique, making it the perfect centerpiece for any dinner table or family gathering.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket is a mouthwatering recipe that turns a tough, inexpensive cut of beef into a tender, flavorful masterpiece. The brisket is seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices, then slow-cooked to perfection, which allows the flavors to meld together while the meat becomes irresistibly tender and juicy. The dish is typically finished off with a rich, savory sauce, making it a comforting meal ideal for sharing.

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Brisket: A large piece of beef brisket, usually about 1.5 to 2 kg (3-4 lbs), that will be slow-cooked to tender perfection.
• Olive oil: Used for browning the meat at the start to lock in flavor.
• Onions: Adds a natural sweetness and depth of flavor when caramelized.
• Garlic: For an aromatic base to the dish.
• Carrots: Provides an earthy sweetness that complements the rich beef.
• Celery: A subtle addition to round out the base flavors.
• Beef stock: Adds depth and moisture to the slow-cooking process.
• Tomatoes: Often canned or chopped, they lend a tangy contrast to the beef’s richness.
• Herbs (bay leaves, thyme, rosemary): These aromatic herbs infuse the brisket with their wonderful fragrance and flavors.
• Spices (such as cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper): Adds an extra layer of depth, complexity, and a bit of smokiness.
• Red wine (optional): A splash of red wine can enhance the richness of the sauce.
• Salt and pepper: For seasoning to taste.

Equipment Needed

You’ll need the following equipment to make this recipe:

• Large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven: This is used for browning the meat and then slow-cooking it in the oven. It ensures even cooking and a great depth of flavor.
• Sharp knife: For chopping vegetables and trimming the brisket.
• Chopping board: For preparing the ingredients.
• Spoon and tongs: For stirring, flipping, and checking the meat during cooking.
• Roasting tray or dish (if not using a Dutch oven): If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a covered roasting tray can work well for slow-roasting the brisket.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket?

1. Prep the ingredients:

Start by preparing your vegetables-peel and chop the onions, carrots, and celery into rough chunks. Crush the garlic and have your herbs, spices, and stock ready.

2. Brown the brisket:

Heat some olive oil in a large, ovenproof pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the brisket generously with salt and pepper, then brown it on all sides in the hot oil. This step adds a deep, savory flavor to the final dish.

3. Sauté the vegetables:

Once the brisket is browned, remove it and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 10 minutes until the vegetables soften and start to caramelize, creating a rich base for the sauce.

4. Add liquids and seasonings:

Pour in the beef stock and any optional red wine. Add the tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and any other spices you’re using. Stir to combine.

5. Return the brisket to the pot:

Place the browned brisket back into the pot, making sure it’s mostly covered by the liquid. Bring everything to a simmer on the stovetop.

6. Slow cook the brisket:

Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F). Let the brisket cook slowly for about 3-4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds apart.

7. Rest and serve:

Once the brisket is done, remove it from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes. Shred or slice the meat, serve with the rich, flavorful sauce, and enjoy.

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor: Marinate the brisket overnight with some olive oil, garlic, and herbs before cooking. This will allow the flavors to really penetrate the meat.
• Use a meat thermometer: For perfect tenderness, aim for an internal temperature of about 90°C (195°F), which ensures the meat becomes tender enough to shred easily.
• Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce halfway through cooking and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or spices for a richer flavor.
• Serve with sides: Serve the slow-cooked brisket with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket is a dish that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. The slow-cooking method ensures that even a tough cut of meat turns into something extraordinary. By using fresh ingredients, aromatic herbs, and a rich stock, this recipe offers both depth and comfort, making it the perfect meal for a family feast or a weekend gathering.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket

Jamie Oliver’s slow-cooked brisket is a crowd-pleasing dish that delivers a melt-in-your-mouth experience, but there’s always room for variation to suit your flavor preferences or available ingredients. Here are a few exciting variations to elevate your brisket game:

1. Spicy Chipotle Brisket:
   Add a smoky kick to your brisket by incorporating chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Blend the chipotles with garlic, lime juice, and honey to create a rich, smoky glaze. Rub this mixture onto the brisket before slow cooking, and you’ll get a spicy, sweet contrast to the tender beef. For extra flavor, add a dash of cumin and smoked paprika.

2. Herb & Red Wine Brisket:
   For a more traditional, sophisticated variation, use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Add a generous pour of red wine, along with some beef broth, garlic, onions, and a few carrots for a robust, earthy flavor. The wine helps tenderize the meat and infuses the brisket with a deep, rich taste. After slow cooking, the wine will reduce to form a luxurious sauce.

3. Asian-Inspired Brisket:
   Switch up the seasoning and turn your brisket into an Asian-inspired dish. Use soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a bit of brown sugar to create a glaze. You can also add sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor. During the last hour of cooking, add a few star anise pods for an aromatic, complex profile that complements the beef.

4. BBQ Brisket with Apple Cider Vinegar:
   If you’re craving that classic barbecue flavor, a tangy apple cider vinegar marinade will add brightness to the richness of the beef. Combine vinegar with your favorite BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and a touch of mustard. This will give the brisket a tangy and sweet depth. Serve with cornbread or coleslaw for a full Southern BBQ experience.

5. Moroccan-Spiced Brisket:
   For a unique twist, try seasoning the brisket with a Moroccan spice mix. A blend of cinnamon, cumin, coriander, turmeric, and paprika will infuse the beef with warm, aromatic flavors. Pair it with dried fruits like apricots or raisins during the last hour of cooking to add sweetness and complexity. Serve this version with couscous or flatbreads.

6. Slow Cooked Brisket with Coffee and Cocoa:
   For a bold, slightly bittersweet twist, incorporate coffee and cocoa powder into your brisket’s marinade. The coffee adds depth, while the cocoa brings out a rich, savory umami flavor. This combination works especially well with a rich, tomato-based sauce. The brisket will have a unique, deep flavor profile with a complex layer of bitterness, balanced by the richness of the beef.

These variations take Jamie Oliver’s slow-cooked brisket recipe to new heights, allowing you to cater to different palates and occasions. Whether you’re looking for something spicy, herbaceous, or exotic, you can create a brisket dish that feels completely new and exciting!

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Slow-cooked brisket can make excellent leftovers, but proper storage is key to maintaining its flavor and texture. Follow these best practices for storing your delicious brisket:

1. Cool Before Storing:
   Let the brisket cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation inside your storage containers, which can lead to soggy meat. However, don’t leave it out for more than two hours to avoid bacteria growth.

2. Use Airtight Containers:
   Store the leftover brisket in an airtight container to prevent air exposure, which can cause the meat to dry out. Make sure the container is large enough to allow the brisket to lay flat, which helps it stay moist.

3. Separate the Meat from the Sauce:
   If you have sauce or juices from the slow cooking process, it’s a good idea to separate the meat from the sauce before storing. The sauce can be stored in a separate container and used to reheat the meat, which will help maintain the brisket’s tenderness.

4. Refrigeration:
   Leftover brisket can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure your fridge is set to the proper temperature (below 40°F or 4°C) to keep the meat safe. If you won’t be eating the leftovers within that time frame, it’s best to freeze them.

5. Freezing Leftovers:
   For longer storage, freeze the brisket. Wrap the meat tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. Alternatively, you can place it in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. The brisket will retain its quality for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

6. Reheating Tips:
   When reheating brisket, avoid using a microwave, as it can dry out the meat. Instead, reheat it in a low-temperature oven (about 300°F or 150°C) covered with foil, or in a pot with a little bit of the sauce or broth on the stove. This will help keep the meat moist and tender.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your slow-cooked brisket for several meals after the initial cook, ensuring it stays juicy and flavorful.

What Goes Well With Slow Cooked Brisket?

Slow-cooked brisket is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a wide variety of sides that complement its rich, savory flavor. Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

1. Mashed Potatoes:
   The classic pairing of slow-cooked brisket and mashed potatoes is unbeatable. The creamy, buttery potatoes absorb the flavorful juices of the brisket, creating a comforting and indulgent side.

2. Coleslaw:
   A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the brisket. The cool, crisp vegetables, combined with a creamy dressing, balance the savory depth of the meat. It’s a perfect pairing for a BBQ-inspired brisket.

3. Cornbread:
   Cornbread, especially when served warm with a pat of butter, is an excellent match for brisket. The slightly sweet, crumbly texture of the bread complements the tender beef and any smoky or spicy flavors you’ve added to the brisket.

4. Grilled Vegetables:
   For a lighter option, serve your brisket with grilled vegetables. Roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers provide a slightly charred flavor that pairs wonderfully with the tenderness of slow-cooked meat.

5. Pickled Vegetables:
   A side of tangy, pickled vegetables like pickled onions, cucumbers, or jalapeños can bring brightness and acidity to the meal, cutting through the richness of the brisket. This is especially great if you’re serving the brisket in a more barbecue-style dish.

6. Rice or Pilaf:
   For a more filling side, serve your brisket with a fluffy rice pilaf. The nutty grains absorb the brisket’s savory juices, creating a hearty and satisfying combination.

7. Steamed Greens:
   Fresh greens like collard greens, spinach, or kale are an excellent choice to balance out the richness of the meat. A little garlic and olive oil sautéed into the greens can provide a flavorful counterpoint to the brisket.

8. Mac and Cheese:
   For a comforting, indulgent meal, serve the brisket with mac and cheese. The creamy cheese sauce and tender pasta provide a smooth contrast to the hearty brisket, making it a favorite for many.

By choosing sides that either contrast or complement the brisket’s flavors, you can create a truly satisfying and memorable meal.

Conclusion

Slow-cooked brisket is a wonderful dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, whether it’s with a spicy twist, a rich wine-based sauce, or a more traditional BBQ flair. Its versatility allows for easy customization based on your taste preferences or the ingredients at hand.

And when it comes to leftovers, proper storage ensures that the beef remains tender and flavorful, while a wide array of sides lets you craft the perfect accompaniment. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply looking for a comforting, hearty meal, slow-cooked brisket is sure to impress. So fire up your slow cooker, experiment with flavors, and enjoy this delicious dish in all its many variations!.

FAQs

What Cut Of Beef Does Jamie Oliver Use For His Slow Cooked Brisket Recipe?

Jamie Oliver typically uses a whole beef brisket, preferably with a layer of fat on top to keep the meat moist during the long cooking process. The brisket should be well-marbled for optimal tenderness and flavor.

How Long Does Jamie Oliver Recommend Cooking The Brisket For?

Jamie Oliver’s slow cooked brisket is usually cooked for about 4 to 5 hours at a low temperature (around 160°C or 325°F). This allows the connective tissues to break down, resulting in a tender, pull-apart texture.

What Are The Main Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket Recipe?

The recipe often includes beef brisket, onions, carrots, garlic, fresh thyme, rosemary, red wine, beef stock, and sometimes tomatoes or tomato purée. These ingredients combine to create a rich and flavorful braising liquid.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Recipe In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, the recipe can be adapted for a slow cooker. After searing the meat and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.

Does Jamie Oliver Recommend Searing The Brisket Before Slow Cooking?

Yes, searing the brisket is an important step in Jamie Oliver’s method. It helps to develop flavor through caramelization and creates a rich base for the braising liquid.

What Type Of Wine Does Jamie Oliver Use In His Brisket Recipe?

Jamie often uses a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz, to add depth and acidity to the dish. However, any full-bodied dry red wine will work well.

What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket?

Jamie frequently serves the brisket with mashed potatoes, polenta, or rustic root vegetables. It also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Brisket Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Absolutely. The brisket actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to deepen. Simply cool and refrigerate, then reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.

How Do I Store And Reheat Leftover Brisket?

Leftover brisket should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in its cooking juices in a covered pot over low heat or in a 160°C (325°F) oven.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Brisket Recipe Gluten-free?

The base recipe is generally gluten-free, but it’s important to check that the beef stock and any wine used are certified gluten-free. If thickening is needed, use cornstarch instead of flour.