How to Braise a Brisket Flat

Brisket Flat

A brisket flat is a cut of beef that comes from the brisket section. It is typically about 3-5 pounds in weight.

Brisket flat is a popular cut of meat for barbecue,  particularly in Texas-style barbecue. However it is a tough cut of meat that requires low and slow cooking, and is used for smoking.

When cooking a brisket flat, it is important to season the meat generously with salt and pepper or other desired seasonings, such as a dry rub or a marinade.

It can then be sliced against the grain into thin slices and served with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or baked beans.

 

Recipe Ingredients:

  • 4-5 pound brisket flat
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
  • 2 onions, chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups of beef broth
  • 1 cup of red wine
  • 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon of paprika
  • 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon of onion powder

Cooking Utensils for Braising a Brisket Flat

Dutch Oven or Heavy-Bottomed Pot: A Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid is ideal for braising a brisket flat. The pot should be large enough to hold the brisket and vegetables, and have a lid that fits tightly to keep in moisture.

Tongs: Tongs are essential for moving the brisket and vegetables around in the pot during the braising process.

Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is a must-have tool for braising any type of meat. It allows you to check the internal temperature of the brisket to ensure it is cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Cutting Board: A cutting board can be used to chop the vegetables and prepare the brisket before braising.

Kitchen Twine: Kitchen twine can be used to tie the brisket together if it is irregularly shaped, which will help it cook evenly.

Wooden Spoon: A wooden spoon can be used to stir the vegetables and meat during the braising process.

Oven Mitts: Oven mitts are necessary for handling the hot pot and lid when placing it in the oven or on the stovetop and removing it.

Vegetable Peeler: A vegetable peeler can be used to peel and slice vegetables for the braising liquid.

Remember to always use caution when working with hot pots and utensils to avoid burns or injuries.

Recipe Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F.

Step 2: Season the brisket flat generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

Step 3: In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Step 4: Once the oil is hot, add the brisket flat to the pot and sear on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 5: Remove the brisket flat from the pot and set aside.

STep 6: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened.

Step 7: Add the beef broth, red wine, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder to the pot, and stir well to combine.

Step 8: Bring the liquid to a simmer, and add the brisket flat back to the pot.

Step 9: Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and braise in the oven for about 3-4 hours or until the brisket flat is fork-tender.

Step 10: Once the brisket flat is done, remove it from the pot and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

Step 11: Slice the brisket flat against the grain into thin slices, and serve with the cooking liquid and vegetables.

This recipe serves about 8-10 people, depending on serving size. The cooking time should take about 3-4 hours.