Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Sandwich

Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Sandwich

Introduction

Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Sandwich is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for gatherings, parties, or a casual family dinner. The tender brisket, slow-cooked with a rich barbecue sauce, makes for an irresistible filling, especially when served on a fresh bun. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it also allows you to enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort, as the slow cooker does most of the work.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 3 to 4 pounds of beef brisket
– 1 cup of barbecue sauce
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon of brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons of salt
– 1 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional)
– 8 sandwich buns
– Coleslaw (for serving, optional)

Prep Time

The preparation time for this delicious Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Sandwich is approximately 15 to 20 minutes. During this time, you will chop the onion and garlic, measure out the spices, and prepare the brisket for cooking.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time is about 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high in the slow cooker. Therefore, the total time for this recipe can range from 8 hours and 15 minutes to 8 hours and 20 minutes, depending on the setting used. This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, making it a great choice for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Brisket

Start by trimming excess fat from the brisket to ensure that the dish doesn’t become overly greasy during cooking.

Mix the BBQ Rub

In a bowl, combine your chosen spices to create a BBQ rub. Common ingredients include brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

Season the Brisket

Rubbing the BBQ mixture evenly over the entire surface of the brisket ensures maximum flavor. Be generous and make sure to cover all sides.

Place in Slow Cooker

Carefully place the seasoned brisket into the slow cooker. If you have a larger piece, you may need to cut it to fit.

Add Liquid

Pour your choice of beef broth or other liquid into the slow cooker to keep the meat moist throughout the cooking process.

Cook on Low

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for approximately 8 to 10 hours, or until the brisket is tender and easily pulls apart.

Shred the Brisket

Using two forks, shred the brisket directly in the slow cooker. Mix it with the juices for added flavor and moisture.

Prepare the Sandwich

Assemble your barbecue brisket sandwich by placing the shredded meat onto your choice of bread, topping with additional BBQ sauce, and any other desired toppings such as coleslaw or pickles.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve the sandwiches immediately while warm, accompanied by your choice of sides.

Notes

Choosing the Brisket

Look for a brisket with good marbling for a more flavorful and tender result.

Storage

Leftover brisket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Variations

Feel free to experiment with different spices in the BBQ rub or add ingredients like onions and garlic in the slow cooker for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions

These sandwiches pair well with sides such as potato salad, baked beans, or corn on the cob.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking allows the brisket to become tender as it cooks over low heat for several hours. This technique helps the meat to absorb the flavors of the seasoning and barbecue sauce, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish.

Seasoning

Proper seasoning is key to enhancing the flavor of the brisket. Applying a dry rub before cooking adds depth and complexity, making each bite flavorful.

Searing

Searing the brisket before slow cooking can provide a beautiful crust and enhance the overall flavor. The caramelization created during searing adds a rich, roasted taste to the meat.

Resting

Allowing the brisket to rest after cooking is crucial. This technique helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is moist and flavorful.

Shredding

Shredding the cooked brisket allows for easier assembly of the sandwiches and ensures that the meat is well-coated with sauce, enhancing the overall taste and texture.

Using a BBQ Sauce

Choosing the right barbecue sauce is essential. A well-balanced sauce complements the smoky flavors of the brisket and enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.

FAQ

Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other cuts of beef, such as chuck roast, but the cooking time and texture may vary.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

A tangy, slightly sweet barbecue sauce works best to complement the rich flavor of the brisket. However, you can use any sauce you prefer.

How long does the brisket need to cook in the slow cooker?

Typically, the brisket needs to cook for about 8-10 hours on low heat or 4-6 hours on high heat, depending on the size of the cut.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the brisket ahead of time. It can be stored in the refrigerator after cooking and reheated before serving.

What should I serve with brisket sandwiches?

Brisket sandwiches pair well with coleslaw, pickles, and potato chips or fries for a delicious meal.

Conclusion

The Slow Cooker BBQ Brisket Sandwich is a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for gatherings or a comforting dinner at home. With its tender brisket, flavorful barbecue sauce, and soft bread, this recipe is sure to please friends and family alike. Embrace the ease of slow cooking and enjoy a hearty sandwich that can be customized with your favorite toppings.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Classic Coleslaw

Pair your brisket sandwich with a refreshing classic coleslaw for a crunchy contrast. The creamy texture and tangy flavor complement the savory BBQ brisket perfectly.

Crispy Onion Rings

Serve crispy onion rings on the side for a crunchy and tasty addition. Their savory, fried goodness makes them a great sidekick to your brisket sandwich.

Potato Salad

A chilled potato salad is an excellent side dish that works well with BBQ. The creaminess of the salad balances the richness of the brisket.

Poblano Cornbread

Add a bit of sweetness to your meal with some homemade poblano cornbread. Its subtle heat and sweet flavor make it a delightful pairing with the robust flavors of BBQ brisket.

Pickles and Jalapeños

Top your brisket sandwich with pickles and jalapeños for an added kick of flavor. Their tang and spice enhance the overall dining experience.

Barbecue Baked Beans

Complement your meal with a side of barbecue baked beans. Their smoky, sweet flavor pairs well with the BBQ brisket and adds a hearty touch.

Macaroni and Cheese

A comforting dish of macaroni and cheese provides a rich and creamy side that goes hand in hand with the bold flavors of the brisket sandwich.

Chips and Salsa

Enjoy a light starter of chips and fresh salsa before diving into the main sandwich. The fresh flavors of the salsa will whet your appetite.