This Brown Sugar Dijon Corned Beef Brisket is a sweet and tangy treat! The combination of brown sugar and Dijon mustard creates a tasty glaze that makes this beef super yummy.
Nothing beats the aroma of it slowly cooking, and the best part? It’s so easy! Just slather on that glaze and let the oven do the work. Perfect for family dinners!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef Brisket: Look for a 4-5 lb brisket that includes a spice packet. If you can’t find corned beef, try using a regular brisket and adding your own spices, like pickling spice, to mimic the flavor.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness, helping to balance the tanginess of the Dijon. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute honey or maple syrup, but adjust the amount; they’re usually sweeter.
Dijon Mustard: It provides a nice tang to the glaze. You can swap in yellow mustard for a milder flavor or even whole grain mustard for a bit of texture.
Spices: The toasted spices add depth. If you don’t have them, use pre-ground pepper, coriander, and mustard. Though fresh spices are best, ground versions work in a pinch.
Beef Broth: This is crucial for braising. If you’re low-sodium, opt for low-sodium broth or water. Veggie broth can work too but will change the flavor slightly.
How Do I Toast and Prepare the Spices Properly?
Toasting the spices is key for enhancing their flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
- Add black peppercorns, coriander seeds, and mustard seeds. Toast for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Keep an eye on them; they can burn easily!
- Let the spices cool. Then, crush them with a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder to release more flavor for your glaze.
This simple step can elevate your dish, giving it a deeper, richer taste. Enjoy the transformation!
How to Make Brown Sugar Dijon Corned Beef Brisket
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Brisket:
- 4-5 lb corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
For the Glaze:
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
For the Spice Rub:
- 1 tbsp black peppercorns
- 1 tbsp coriander seeds
- 1 tbsp mustard seeds
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary, crushed
- 1-2 bay leaves
For Braising:
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, followed by 2.5 to 3 hours of cooking on the stovetop, and an additional 30-40 minutes for roasting. In total, plan for about 3-3.5 hours from start to finish, plus some time to let the brisket rest before serving. It’s a fairly hands-off process, with most of the time spent cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the black peppercorns, coriander seeds, and mustard seeds until they become fragrant, which will take about 2-3 minutes. Be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t burn! Once fragrant, let them cool slightly, then roughly crush them using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder to release their flavors.
2. Make the Glaze:
In a mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar and Dijon mustard. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended. Then, mix in the crushed toasted spices, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), dried herbs, and a pinch of black pepper. This glaze is what will give your brisket an amazing flavor!
3. Cook the Corned Beef:
Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water to get rid of any excess brine. Place it in a large pot or Dutch oven and add the beef broth or water. Next, toss in the sliced onion, smashed garlic, bay leaves, and the spice packet that came with the corned beef. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours or until the brisket is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork.
4. Glaze and Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Carefully remove the cooked brisket from the pot and transfer it to a roasting pan. If desired, you can trim some of the excess fat off, but leave enough to keep it moist while it cooks. Spread the delicious brown sugar Dijon glaze evenly over the top and sides of the brisket.
5. Roast:
Place the glazed brisket in the oven and bake it uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. Baste the brisket once or twice with the glaze during this time to help caramelize the crust, which should give it a nice, slightly crispy surface.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once roasted, remove the brisket from the oven and allow it to rest for 10-15 minutes. This resting period is important as it helps the juices redistribute through the meat. After resting, slice the brisket thinly against the grain for the best texture.
7. Optional Serving Suggestions:
For a classic corned beef experience, serve the brisket on a bed of sautéed cabbage, with your favorite mustard, rye bread, and pickles on the side. This dish is sure to be a hit!
Enjoy your deliciously tender and flavorful Brown Sugar Dijon Corned Beef Brisket! You’ve made a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While corned beef brisket is traditional, you could use a point cut or flat cut, which have different fat levels but will cook similarly. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To keep it juicy, try to slice only what you plan to eat, leaving the rest whole until reheating.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Absolutely! Wrap the sliced brisket tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What Are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve with This Brisket?
This corned beef goes well with roasted vegetables, colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage), or a fresh green salad. For a classic touch, consider serving with buttered rye bread and mustard.
