### The Easiest Brisket Recipe: A No-Stress Method for Holiday Meals
When it comes to putting together a festive feast for Passover or various Jewish celebrations, brisket frequently takes the spotlight. Nevertheless, the task of planning and preparing can seem daunting. From appetizers and side dishes to desserts, table arrangements, and making sure the home is welcoming, the pressure of crafting the ideal brisket can increase anxiety. Introducing the “Stupid Easy Brisket” recipe, an uncomplicated method that guarantees tasty outcomes without the hassle.
#### What Makes This Brisket Recipe Unique
This brisket recipe’s charm is its ease. Inspired by the late Nach Waxman, who established the famous NYC cookbook shop Kitchen Arts & Letters, this dish has gained a devoted following due to its simple ingredient list and easy-to-follow method. With just five components—brisket, onions, garlic, tomato paste, and carrots (which can be left out if preferred)—this recipe is meant to be approachable for all, irrespective of cooking skills.
Unlike numerous conventional brisket recipes that depend on sugar or ready-made sauces, this one emphasizes the inherent flavors of the ingredients. The result is a meal that is rich in flavor and fragrance, making it a beloved choice among family and friends.
#### Ingredients You Will Require
To create this delightful brisket, assemble the following ingredients:
– **Kosher salt**
– **One (6-pound or 2.75 kg) first-cut beef brisket**
– **Freshly ground black pepper**
– **Vegetable oil**
– **3 pounds (1.35 kg) of yellow onions (approximately 8 medium)**
– **6 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed**
– **4 tablespoons (65 grams) tomato paste**
– **1 to 1.5 pounds (455 to 680 grams) thick carrots, peeled, trimmed, and cut into 1-inch pieces**
#### Cooking Directions
1. **Preheat Your Oven**: Adjust your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Prepare the Brisket**: Trim the brisket to retain a thin layer of fat (around 1/8 to 1/4 inch). Generously season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
3. **Brown the Brisket**: In a large Dutch oven, heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over high heat. Once hot, add the brisket (you may need to halve it to fit) and brown it for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Move the brisket to a plate to rest.
4. **Cook the Onions**: In the same pot, add the sliced onions, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 10 to 15 minutes until softened and browned. Add the smashed garlic and sauté for one more minute.
5. **Prepare the Braise**: Remove the pot from the heat. If needed, transfer the onions and garlic to an oven-safe casserole dish. Place the browned brisket atop the onions, pour in 1.5 cups of water, and spread the tomato paste over the brisket. Distribute the carrots around the brisket, cover the pot (or use foil), and place it in the oven.
6. **Braise the Brisket**: Depending on your timeline, you can braise the brisket for varying lengths:
– **For same-day serving**: Braise for 1.5 hours, then slice and return to the pot, adding water if needed. Cook for an additional 1.5 to 2.5 hours until tender.
– **For next-day serving**: Braise for 3 hours, monitoring liquid levels and adding water as necessary. If not tender, return to the oven for another 30 to 60 minutes.
7. **Chill and Reheat**: If making in advance, refrigerate the brisket overnight. Before serving, reheat at 350°F for 35 to 45 minutes, making sure the slices are hot throughout.
8. **Serve**: Slice the brisket against the grain and serve with the braised onions and sauce drizzled on top.
#### Success Tips
– **Timing**: Braised brisket tastes even better the next day, making it an ideal dish for meal preparation.
– **Salt**: Proper seasoning is vital. Use the advised quantity of kosher salt to ensure the brisket is savory.
– **Pan Size**: A large Dutch oven is optimal for this recipe. If one isn’t available, use a large skillet and transfer to an oven-safe dish.
– **Leftovers**: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to six days and reheat as desired.
#### Conclusion
This “Easiest Brisket with Braised Onions” recipe is a revolutionary option for holiday cooking. With its simple preparation and delightful