This Beef Brisket with Bourbon Peach Glaze is a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The tender beef brisket is slow-cooked to perfection and topped with a luscious bourbon peach glaze, making it an unforgettable dish for any special occasion or family gathering.
Ingredients
For the Brisket:
- 1 (4-pound) beef brisket
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp ancho chili powder
- 2 tsp mustard, dry
- 1 tbsp pepper
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
For the Bourbon Peach Glaze:
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 2 tbsp bourbon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 cup braising liquid (from the cooked brisket)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Brisket
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, ancho chili powder, dry mustard, pepper, salt, and sugar.
- Rub the spice mixture all over the brisket, ensuring it is well coated on all sides.
Step 2: Sear the Brisket
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear the brisket on all sides until a brown crust forms, about 3-4 minutes per side. This helps to lock in the flavors.
Step 3: Braise the Brisket
- Place the seared brisket in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven.
- Add the bay leaf, beef broth, and water to the pan.
- Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil or a lid.
- Braise in the preheated oven for about 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is tender and can be easily pulled apart with a fork.
Step 4: Make the Bourbon Peach Glaze
- In a small saucepan, combine the peach preserves, bourbon, and cayenne pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the preserves have melted and the glaze is smooth, about 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 cup of the braising liquid from the brisket. Mix well.
Step 5: Glaze the Brisket
- Once the brisket is tender, remove it from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the bourbon peach glaze generously over the brisket.
- Return the brisket to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and bubbly.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Remove the brisket from the oven and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice the brisket against the grain into thin slices.
- Serve with extra glaze on the side if desired.
Cook Notes
- Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer, you can cook the brisket in a slow cooker. Follow the same steps for seasoning and searing the brisket, then transfer it to a slow cooker. Add the broth, water, and bay leaf, and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until tender. Finish with the glaze as directed.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the glaze to suit your heat preference.
- Leftovers: Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Variations
Smoky BBQ Brisket
- Add 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika to the spice rub for an extra smoky flavor.
- Use BBQ sauce instead of the bourbon peach glaze for a classic taste.
Spicy Brisket
- Increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the glaze for a spicier kick.
- Add 1-2 chopped jalapeños to the braising liquid.
Herb-Crusted Brisket
- Replace the ancho chili powder with a mix of dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and oregano for a herbaceous twist.
- Serve with a garlic and herb sauce instead of the peach glaze.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the brisket a day in advance. Cook the brisket and let it cool, then refrigerate it. When ready to serve, reheat the brisket in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, then apply the glaze and finish as directed.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through or use a microwave.
What sides go well with this dish?
This brisket pairs well with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.
Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, this glaze would also work well with pork shoulder or even chicken thighs. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different cuts of meat.
Can I use fresh peaches instead of preserves?
Yes, you can use fresh peaches. Peel and chop 3-4 peaches and cook them down with a bit of sugar and water until they break down and thicken, then proceed with the glaze recipe.
Beef Brisket with Bourbon Peach Glaze is a delicious and impressive dish that combines the savory richness of slow-cooked brisket with the sweet and spicy notes of a bourbon-infused peach glaze. Perfect for gatherings or a special family meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the bold flavors and tender texture of this mouth-watering brisket!
