Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Beef Brisket Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Beef Brisket is a must-try recipe because it offers a perfect blend of rich flavors and tender meat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is both comforting and satisfying for any occasion.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Beef Brisket

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Beef Brisket is a wonderfully savory dish where beef brisket is slow-roasted for hours, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while the meat becomes tender and juicy. Infused with a medley of herbs, spices, and aromatics, this recipe uses slow-cooking techniques to maximize flavor and tenderness.

The brisket is often paired with vegetables, stock, and sometimes a little wine, ensuring the meat is not only tender but also full of depth and character. The slow-cooking method locks in moisture, making the beef irresistible. Whether served with mashed potatoes, vegetables, or on its own, this brisket is ideal for family gatherings or special events.

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Beef Brisket Recipe

Ingredients Needed

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

• Beef Brisket (around 3-4 pounds) – The star of the dish, which will become fall-apart tender after hours of slow cooking.
• Olive Oil – For browning the beef and sautéing vegetables.
• Onions – Typically two medium-sized, finely chopped, for flavor depth.
• Carrots – About 2, peeled and chopped into large chunks for a rich base.
• Celery – Two sticks, chopped, to add a savory base to the dish.
• Garlic – 4 cloves, smashed, to infuse the meat with aromatic goodness.
• Rosemary – Fresh sprigs for herby fragrance.
• Thyme – Fresh sprigs to complement the rosemary and add complexity.
• Bay Leaves – Two leaves to add earthy flavor.
• Red Wine – Optional but recommended for a rich, slightly tangy background flavor.
• Beef Stock – To braise the brisket and create a luscious sauce.
• Tomato Paste – About 2 tablespoons, for deepening the umami flavors.
• Salt and Pepper – To taste, for seasoning.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this slow-cooked masterpiece to life:

• Large Oven-Safe Pot or Dutch Oven – Perfect for both searing the brisket and then slow-cooking it in the oven.
• Knife and Chopping Board – For prepping vegetables and aromatics.
• Tongs – To handle the brisket while searing it.
• Lid or Foil – To cover the pot and keep the moisture in while cooking.
• Oven – For the slow cooking process, which requires a consistent low temperature.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Beef Brisket?

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F).
2. Sear the beef brisket: Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the brisket generously with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned. This will help lock in the flavors.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Remove the brisket and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Add the tomato paste: Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for another 2 minutes. This will enhance the richness of the sauce.
5. Deglaze with wine: If using, pour in the red wine, scraping any caramelized bits off the bottom of the pot. Allow the wine to reduce by half to concentrate its flavors.
6. Add stock and herbs: Pour in the beef stock, ensuring the brisket is covered by at least half of the liquid. Add the rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves, then give everything a good stir.
7. Slow cook: Return the brisket to the pot, fat side up. Cover with a lid or foil and place it in the oven. Let it cook for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is incredibly tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
8. Finishing touches: Once cooked, remove the brisket from the pot. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain. If desired, strain the liquid and reduce it to create a thicker, richer sauce to serve with the meat.

Expert Tips

• Low and slow is key: The beauty of this dish lies in the slow cooking process. Ensure you maintain a consistent low temperature (around 160°C / 320°F) in the oven for maximum tenderness.
• Resting is important: After removing the brisket from the pot, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier, more flavorful brisket.
• Add a dash of acidity: To balance the richness of the beef, consider adding a splash of vinegar (such as red wine vinegar) to the sauce just before serving. This adds a nice tang that contrasts with the richness.
• Use the right cut of brisket: For this recipe, choose a well-marbled brisket, as the fat helps keep the meat moist during the slow-cooking process.

Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Beef Brisket is the epitome of comfort food-rich, flavorful, and incredibly tender. With minimal effort, this dish allows the oven to do most of the work, resulting in a juicy and aromatic meal that will impress your guests or delight your family.

Whether served on a special occasion or for a cozy dinner, this slow-cooked brisket is a guaranteed hit. Don’t forget to follow the tips for perfecting the cooking time and resting the meat, and you’ll have a dish that’s packed with flavor and tenderness.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Beef Brisket

Jamie Oliver’s slow-cooked beef brisket is a fantastic dish that can be adapted in numerous ways to fit various tastes and dietary needs. While the original recipe is already delicious, there are countless variations that can add a twist to the flavor profile and texture of the dish. Here are some easy recipe variations:

1. Spicy BBQ Brisket:
   If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can easily turn the slow-cooked beef brisket into a spicy BBQ version. Start by adding a combination of chili powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, and cumin to your dry rub before cooking. Once the brisket is slow-cooked, baste it with a smoky BBQ sauce and let it caramelize for the last 20 minutes of cooking. The result is a tender, spicy, and smoky brisket that pairs beautifully with coleslaw.

2. Asian-Inspired Brisket:
   For an Asian twist, infuse the brisket with flavors of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and five-spice powder. Adding a bit of honey and rice vinegar will bring balance to the dish with sweet and tangy notes. You can even throw in a star anise or two for that extra layer of flavor. After the brisket is slow-cooked, garnish with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds to finish the dish.

3. Herb-Infused Brisket:
   A simple yet effective variation involves adding a bouquet of fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves to the slow cooker with the brisket. These herbs will infuse the meat with a fragrant aroma, resulting in a subtly herby brisket. For extra flavor, you can also use garlic and lemon zest, making it perfect to pair with roasted vegetables.

4. Beer Braised Brisket:
   For a rich, deep flavor, try braising your brisket in beer. A dark ale or stout works especially well, as it adds both bitterness and complexity to the flavor profile. Along with the beer, add onions, garlic, and a pinch of brown sugar for sweetness. This variation creates a wonderful, hearty dish, perfect for cooler weather or a satisfying dinner.

5. Mexican-Style Brisket:
   For a Mexican-inspired twist, season the brisket with chili powder, cumin, oregano, and lime juice. You can even add chipotle peppers for a smoky, spicy heat. Once cooked, shred the brisket and serve it in tacos or burritos, topped with fresh cilantro, onion, and a squeeze of lime. This variation is fantastic for casual gatherings and will surely impress guests.

6. Citrus and Pomegranate Brisket:
   For something a bit more unusual and sweet-tart, incorporate citrus fruits like oranges and lemons into the recipe. Add freshly squeezed juice and zest to the slow cooker and a handful of pomegranate seeds for added sweetness and color. This combination is refreshing and can brighten up the richness of the brisket, making it a great spring or summer option.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Properly storing your leftover brisket is essential to maintain its flavor, moisture, and texture. Here are some best practices for storing leftover beef brisket:

1. Cool Down Before Storing:
   Always allow your brisket to cool to room temperature before storing it. Placing hot food directly into the refrigerator can raise the temperature inside the fridge, potentially affecting the safety and quality of other stored items. Allowing the brisket to cool prevents condensation inside the storage container, which can lead to soggy leftovers.

2. Wrap It Up Properly:
   For the best results, wrap the leftover brisket tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to preserve its moisture. If you have slices of brisket, consider layering them with a piece of wax paper between each slice to prevent sticking. This way, the brisket remains easy to separate when reheating.

3. Use an Airtight Container:
   After wrapping, place the brisket in an airtight container to ensure that no air can get in, which can dry out the meat. If you don’t have a suitable container, you can use a resealable plastic bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible.

4. Refrigeration:
   Store leftover brisket in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within the next 3-4 days. Make sure your refrigerator is set to a temperature of 40°F (4°C) or lower. If you’re unsure when you’ll use the leftovers, consider freezing them instead.

5. Freezing Leftovers:
   If you don’t think you’ll eat the leftovers within a few days, freezing them is a great option. Wrap the brisket in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. This will keep the brisket fresh for up to 2-3 months. To thaw, transfer the brisket to the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.

6. Reheating:
   When reheating brisket, it’s important to retain its moisture. The best way to do this is by gently reheating it in a covered dish with a bit of beef broth or water. You can reheat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 20-30 minutes, or on the stovetop over low heat. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it tends to dry out the meat.

What Goes Well With Slow Cooked Beef Brisket?

Pairing the right side dishes with slow-cooked beef brisket can elevate the meal and provide a balance of flavors. Here are some great options to serve alongside this tender, flavorful dish:

1. Mashed Potatoes:
   Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic and comforting side that complements the richness of the brisket. The buttery, smooth texture of the potatoes balances out the savory flavors of the beef, and you can even mix in roasted garlic or cheese for extra flavor.

2. Roasted Vegetables:
   Roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes pair beautifully with brisket. Their natural sweetness and caramelization when roasted add depth and contrast to the savory meat. You can toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs before roasting for extra flavor.

3. Coleslaw:
   The crisp, tangy crunch of coleslaw is the perfect foil for the tender and juicy brisket. The acidity from the dressing and the freshness of the cabbage provide a nice balance to the richness of the beef. You can make traditional coleslaw with cabbage and carrots, or try a more adventurous version with apples or radishes.

4. Cornbread:
   Cornbread is another excellent accompaniment for slow-cooked beef brisket, especially if you’re leaning toward a southern or BBQ-inspired flavor. The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread complements the savory brisket, and it can also soak up any delicious juices from the meat.

5. Pickles or Pickled Vegetables:
   Pickles, or other pickled vegetables such as onions or cucumbers, offer a tangy, refreshing contrast to the rich and tender brisket. The acidity and crunch of pickled vegetables cleanse the palate between bites and help cut through the heaviness of the meat.

6. Grilled Asparagus:
   Lightly grilled asparagus is a great option for adding a touch of freshness and a bit of bitterness to balance the richness of the brisket. The slight char and smoky flavor of the asparagus pair wonderfully with the slow-cooked beef.

7. Mac and Cheese:
   For a decadent side, mac and cheese is a perfect pairing. The creamy cheese sauce and the soft pasta work harmoniously with the juicy brisket. Whether you prefer a simple recipe or one loaded with extra cheese and toppings, this side dish will please anyone at the table.

Conclusion

Slow-cooked beef brisket is an incredibly versatile and delicious dish that can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and occasions. By experimenting with different seasoning and flavor combinations, you can create variations that take this classic recipe to new heights.

When it comes to leftovers, proper storage is key to preserving the brisket’s texture and flavor, ensuring that your meal is just as enjoyable the next day. Lastly, pairing your brisket with the right sides can enhance the dining experience, providing a balance of flavors and textures that will leave everyone satisfied. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or a special gathering, slow-cooked beef brisket is always a crowd-pleaser.

FAQs

What Ingredients Are Required For Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Beef Brisket Recipe?

The ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s slow cooked beef brisket include beef brisket (around 2-3 kg), olive oil, onions, carrots, garlic, celery, fresh thyme, bay leaves, balsamic vinegar, red wine, and beef stock. Some variations may also include additional herbs and spices depending on personal taste.

How Long Does It Take To Slow Cook Beef Brisket Using Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?

The cooking time for Jamie Oliver’s slow cooked beef brisket is typically around 4 to 5 hours at a low temperature (about 150°C/300°F). The brisket should be cooked until it’s tender and easily pulls apart.

Can I Use A Slow Cooker For Jamie Oliver’s Beef Brisket Recipe?

Yes, you can adapt Jamie Oliver’s recipe for a slow cooker. Simply brown the brisket and prepare the vegetables and sauce as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours, or until the brisket is tender.

What Type Of Beef Brisket Should I Use For Jamie Oliver’s Recipe?

For the best results, use a well-marbled beef brisket, typically referred to as a ‘point cut’ or “flat cut”. The fat content helps to keep the meat moist during the slow cooking process, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Beef Brisket Recipe In Advance?

Yes, you can make Jamie Oliver’s slow cooked beef brisket ahead of time. After cooking, let it cool, then refrigerate it. It can be reheated in the oven or on the stove before serving, which also allows the flavors to develop further.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Beef Brisket?

Jamie Oliver’s slow cooked beef brisket pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, steamed greens, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread or Yorkshire puddings to soak up the delicious sauce.

How Do I Achieve Crispy Edges On The Brisket?

To get crispy edges on the brisket, once it’s finished cooking, remove it from the oven and place it under a hot grill (broiler) for a few minutes. This will crisp up the outer layer without overcooking the meat.

Can I Freeze The Leftover Brisket?

Yes, leftover brisket can be frozen. Allow the brisket to cool completely, then slice and store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the oven.

What Wine Should I Use In Jamie Oliver’s Slow Cooked Beef Brisket Recipe?

Jamie Oliver recommends using a good quality red wine for the brisket recipe, such as a robust Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Shiraz. The wine helps to tenderize the meat and adds depth to the sauce.

Can I Substitute The Beef Stock With Something Else In The Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute beef stock with vegetable stock or chicken stock if you prefer. However, beef stock provides a richer flavor, so using a beef substitute might slightly alter the taste of the dish.