Ingredients:
– 4-5 pounds beef brisket, trimmed
– 2 teaspoons kosher salt
– 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar or red wine (for a richer flavor)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 bay leaves
– Fresh thyme sprigs
Begin by patting the brisket dry with paper towels. Then, in a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder to create a seasoning mix.
Rub this seasoning mix all over the brisket, ensuring a generous coat on both sides.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket for about 3-4 minutes on each side until a golden crust forms, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant – roughly 3 minutes.
Pour in the beef broth to deglaze the skillet, scrapping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Stir in the balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 minutes before pouring it over the brisket in the slow cooker.
