Southern Barbecued Brisket

This Southern Barbecued Brisket recipe has become a beloved favorite in my family ever since a former neighbor generously shared it with us. Its generous portion size makes it ideal for company dinners or buffets. The secret to its tender and flavorful result lies in the slow baking process that allows the meat to become incredibly tender. The combination of savory and tangy flavors, enhanced by the addition of brown sugar and optional Liquid Smoke, creates a barbecue sauce that perfectly complements the brisket. This recipe showcases the essence of Southern cooking, with its mouthwatering flavors and comforting aromas.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 fresh beef brisket (5 pounds)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 cup ketchup
• ¼ cup water
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Liquid Smoke (optional)
• 2 teaspoons celery seed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

PREPARATIONS:

1. Place the brisket on a large sheet of heavy-duty foil and seal it tightly. Then, place it in a greased shallow roasting pan.
2. Bake the brisket at 325°F for 2 to 2½ hours, or until the meat is tender.
3. In a small saucepan, combine the chopped onion, ketchup, water, brown sugar, Liquid Smoke (if using), celery seed, salt, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper.
4. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove it from the heat.
5. Carefully open the foil to allow the steam to escape. Remove the brisket from the foil and let it stand for 20 minutes.
6. Thinly slice the meat across the grain and place it in an ungreased 13×9-inch baking dish.
7. Spoon the prepared sauce over the sliced meat.
8. Cover the baking dish and bake it for 1 hour, or until the brisket is heated through.

YIELD: 12 servings

COOKING TIME: 3 hours + standing time

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Ensure that the foil is tightly sealed when baking the brisket to retain the moisture and tenderness of the meat.
• If using Liquid Smoke, adjust the quantity according to your preference for smoky flavor.

TIPS:

• For optimal tenderness, allow the brisket to rest for 20 minutes after removing it from the foil before slicing.
• Serve the Southern Barbecued Brisket with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes, for a complete and satisfying meal.

In conclusion, this Southern Barbecued Brisket recipe is a treasured family favorite that has stood the test of time. Passed down by a former neighbor, this dish has become a go-to option for company dinners and buffet-style gatherings. The slow baking process allows the fresh beef brisket to become tender, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth experience. The combination of chopped onion, ketchup, brown sugar, Liquid Smoke (optional), and a variety of spices creates a tantalizing barbecue sauce that perfectly enhances the flavor of the brisket.

This recipe encapsulates the essence of Southern cooking with its savory and tangy profile. The tender and flavorful brisket, paired with the rich and luscious sauce, is a true delight for the taste buds. The generous portion size of this recipe ensures that there will be enough to satisfy a crowd, making it a great option for gatherings and special occasions.

When serving the Southern Barbecued Brisket, be sure to allow the meat to rest before slicing to retain its juiciness and tenderness. Pair it with classic Southern sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes to create a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Whether you’re a fan of Southern cuisine or simply appreciate mouthwatering barbecue flavors, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your household. So, gather your loved ones, fire up the oven, and savor the deliciousness of this Southern Barbecued Brisket.