When the cool breeze of fall arrives, few meals are as comforting as a slow-braised brisket. Apple cider braised brisket combines the rich, savory depth of beef with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider, creating a dish that’s perfect for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or holiday feasts. The apple cider not only tenderizes the brisket but also infuses it with seasonal flavors, making it moist and flavorful in every bite.
This dish has its roots in traditional slow cooking, where tougher cuts of meat are transformed into melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The low and slow braising process allows the brisket to soak up the flavors of cider, onions, garlic, and herbs, creating a one-pot meal that’s as impressive as it is delicious. Whether you serve it over mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or roasted root vegetables, this apple cider braised brisket will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4–5 pounds beef brisket, trimmed of excess fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups apple cider (not vinegar)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 carrots, cut into chunks
- 2 celery stalks, cut into chunks
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or ½ teaspoon dried)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Preparation
Step 1: Season and Sear the Brisket
- Pat the brisket dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
- Sear the brisket on all sides until browned, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- In the same pot, add sliced onions and carrots. Cook until onions are soft and golden, about 6–7 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Braising Liquid
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add apple cider, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Step 4: Combine and Braise
- Return the brisket to the pot, fat side up. Add celery, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Cover with a lid and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C).
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
- Braise for 3–3.5 hours, until the brisket is fork-tender.
- Remove brisket and let it rest on a cutting board for 15 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Strain the liquid, discarding bay leaves and vegetables if desired, then reduce the sauce on the stove until slightly thickened.
Variations
- Spiced Apple Brisket: Add cinnamon sticks and cloves to the braising liquid for a warm holiday flavor.
- Honey-Cider Brisket: Stir 2 tablespoons of honey into the apple cider for a touch of sweetness.
- Vegetable-Packed: Include parsnips, turnips, or sweet potatoes for a heartier one-pot meal.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños for a little heat.
Cooking Notes
- Always sear the brisket first—this locks in flavor and creates depth in the final dish.
- For best results, choose natural apple cider instead of apple juice. Juice can make the dish overly sweet.
- Brisket tastes even better the next day. Store it overnight in the fridge, then reheat slowly before serving.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort food pairing.
- Pair with roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes.
- For a lighter option, serve with buttered egg noodles or rice.
- Add a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious apple cider gravy.
Tips
- Slice brisket against the grain for the most tender bites.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes to reduce and thicken.
- Leftovers make amazing brisket sandwiches the next day.
- Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Timing
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx. 8 servings)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 32g
- Sodium: 670mg
❓ FAQs
Q1: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- Yes! Sear the brisket first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8–9 hours or high for 5–6 hours.
Q2: Can I substitute apple juice for cider?
- It’s possible, but apple cider provides more depth and less sweetness. If using juice, reduce other sweet elements.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
- Keep brisket in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.
Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
- Absolutely. Brisket is even more flavorful the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or holidays.
Q5: What cut of meat works best if I can’t find brisket?
- Chuck roast or short ribs can be used, though cooking times may vary slightly.
Conclusion
Apple cider braised brisket is a hearty, flavorful dish that celebrates the best of fall cooking. With tender beef infused with apple cider, herbs, and aromatic vegetables, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together around the table. The slow cooking process guarantees melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, while the apple cider adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory richness of the beef. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, holiday celebration, or simply to enjoy the comfort of home-cooked food, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.