Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe

If you are craving a hearty, soul-warming meal that bursts with rich Italian flavors, this Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender, succulent beef brisket slow-cooked in a luscious tomato and red wine sauce with fragrant herbs brings the best of rustic Italy right to your dinner table. From the first bite, the melt-in-your-mouth texture and deep, savory layers will have you hooked and eager for every juicy slice. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing friends, this recipe promises a satisfying, comforting experience that’s truly unforgettable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, wholesome ingredients are the secret behind this Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe’s extraordinary flavor. Each one plays a vital role, from infusing the meat with aromatic herbs to creating a rich, velvety sauce that wraps every bite in pure comfort.

• 3 to 4 pounds beef brisket: The star of the dish that becomes incredibly tender when slow-braised.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the meat and balancing flavors throughout.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps sear the brisket to perfection and adds a fruity, warm undertone.
• 1 large onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the aromatic base.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Brings robust, fragrant warmth that complements the herbs beautifully.
• 2 cups beef broth: Enriches the braising liquid and keeps the meat juicy.
• 1 cup dry red wine: Adds acidity and complexity, elevating the sauce’s flavor profile.
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes: Forms the rich, hearty tomato foundation of the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce perfectly.
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Provides a classic Mediterranean herb scent that complements the beef.
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary: Adds piney, aromatic notes critical for that authentic Italian taste.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Lends a subtle earthiness that rounds out the flavor beautifully.
• 2 bay leaves: Impart a gentle depth to the braising liquid as it simmers low and slow.
• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish): A bright, fresh finish that adds a pop of color and a burst of herbal freshness.

How to Make Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by setting your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (160 degrees Celsius). This moderate temperature allows a slow, gentle cooking process that’s crucial for transforming brisket into a tender masterpiece.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Brisket

Generously season the beef brisket with salt and pepper on all sides. This simple seasoning is key to enhancing the natural flavors of the meat and creating a flavorful crust during searing.

Step 3: Sear the Brisket

Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the brisket, searing each side for about 4 to 5 minutes. The beautiful brown crust formed here locks in juices and adds a complex, savory note that is the foundation of this dish’s brilliance. Once seared, remove the brisket and set it aside.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic, sautéing for an additional minute. This aromatic base releases the flavors that will permeate the brisket as it cooks.

Step 5: Deglaze with Red Wine

Pour the red wine into the pot, using a wooden spoon to scrape off any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly to concentrate its rich, fruity flavor and remove any harsh alcohol notes.

Step 6: Add Remaining Braising Ingredients

Stir in the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. This medley of ingredients forms a deeply flavorful bath for the brisket to slowly absorb all those wonderful herbs and spices.

Step 7: Submerge the Brisket and Braise

Return the seared brisket to the Dutch oven, making sure it is mostly submerged in the liquid to maximize tenderness. Cover the pot tightly with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.

Step 8: Slow Cook Until Tender

Allow the brisket to braise gently for about 3 hours. Halfway through, open the oven to turn the brisket so it cooks evenly on all sides, then cover and continue braising until fork-tender and infused with flavors.

Step 9: Rest and Slice

Once cooked, remove the Dutch oven from the oven. Give the brisket a few minutes to rest in the rich sauce before slicing it against the grain. This final step ensures every slice is juicy, tender, and packed with that irresistible Italian flavor.

How to Serve Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves adds a vibrant burst of color and aromatic brightness, perfectly balancing the rich, slow-cooked flavors of the brisket. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil on top can also heighten the dish’s luscious mouthfeel.

Side Dishes

This Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe pairs wonderfully with creamy polenta, buttery mashed potatoes, or rustic crusty bread to soak up every bit of the luscious sauce. Roasted seasonal vegetables or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon also create a delightful contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive dinner presentation, serve thin slices of the brisket topped with chopped fresh herbs alongside a generous ladle of the tomato sauce. You can even turn it into a hearty sandwich with some melted provolone and pickled peppers for an elevated twist on a classic comfort meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe tasting fresh, store leftover brisket along with its sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, and the flavors often deepen even more after resting overnight.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion the brisket and sauce into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, ensuring the meat stays moist and flavorful. When properly wrapped, it can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, allowing the brisket to slowly warm in the sauce to maintain its tenderness. Alternatively, use a microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, to avoid drying out the meat. Adding a splash of broth or water can help refresh the sauce if needed.

FAQs

What cut of brisket is best for this recipe?

A whole packer brisket with both the flat and point sections works wonderfully because it becomes tender and flavorful after braising. Look for brisket that has a good amount of marbling for the best results.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After searing the brisket and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or until the brisket is tender. The slow cooker method adds convenience and also produces tender meat.

Is red wine necessary in the braising liquid?

While red wine adds acidity and a depth of flavor, you can substitute with additional beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar if you prefer. The brisket will still be delicious, though wine gives it that signature Italian flair.

How do I ensure the brisket is tender?

Low and slow cooking is key. Make sure to maintain a gentle oven temperature (about 325°F/160°C) and cook until the brisket easily shreds with a fork. Turning the meat halfway ensures even braising and maximum tenderness.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Yes, fresh herbs can be used but reduce the quantities slightly since they are more potent in flavor. Adding fresh herbs in the last hour of cooking helps preserve their aroma and brightens the overall dish.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like a tender, flavorful brisket slow-braised in a rich Italian sauce to bring everyone to the table with hungry smiles. This Italian Style Braised Brisket Recipe is a true labor of love that rewards you with unforgettable, comforting flavors and a joyful cooking experience. Give it a try and watch it become one of your family’s favorite meals for years to come!

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