Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Slow-Cooked Beef Brisket with Au Jus?
It is a rich and flavorful beef dish marinated in a blend of beef consomme, soy sauce, lemon juice, garlic, and liquid smoke, then slow-cooked until fork-tender.
What ingredients are needed for the marinade?
The marinade consists of 2 cans of beef consomme, 1/2 cup of lemon juice, 1 1/2 cups of soy sauce, 5 chopped garlic cloves, and 2 tablespoons of liquid smoke.
How long should the beef brisket marinate?
For the best flavor, the brisket should be marinated in the refrigerator for 24 to 48 hours.
What size brisket is required for this recipe?
This recipe calls for a whole beef brisket weighing approximately 10 pounds.
What is the recommended oven temperature for cooking?
The oven should be preheated and set to 300ยฐF (150ยฐC).
How long does the brisket need to cook?
The brisket should cook for approximately 40 minutes per pound.
How do I know when the brisket is done?
The brisket is done when it is fork-tender and can be easily shredded with two forks.
What should I do if the brisket is still tough after the initial cooking time?
If the meat is still tough, cover it back up with foil and return it to the oven for an additional hour.
Should the fat side face up or down during marinating?
The brisket should be placed in the marinade with the fat side facing up.
What type of roasting pan should I use?
A large roasting pan is needed; a heavy-duty disposable pan is recommended for easier cleanup.
How should I slice the cooked brisket?
The brisket should be sliced against the grain into uniform pieces using a long, serrated knife.
What do I do with the layer of fat on top of the brisket?
After cooking, transfer the meat to a cutting board and carefully cut away the fat layer, which should come off easily.
How is the au jus served?
The savory au jus is drizzled over the sliced meat or served on the side for dipping and pouring over side dishes like potatoes.
Can I add barbecue sauce to this brisket?
Yes, you can optionally add barbecue sauce for an extra kick of flavor when serving.
What side dishes go well with this recipe?
It pairs perfectly with new potatoes, homemade bread, or Orange Ginger Glazed Carrots.
Can I use bottled lemon juice?
Yes, you can use either freshly squeezed or bottled lemon juice.
Is it okay to use low-sodium soy sauce?
Yes, using low-sodium soy sauce is an optional variation for this recipe.
What is the purpose of liquid smoke?
Liquid smoke is added to the marinade to provide a deep, smoky flavor to the slow-cooked meat.
How many garlic cloves are used in the recipe?
The recipe requires 5 cloves of garlic, which should be chopped.
Should the pan be covered during the cooking process?
Yes, the pan should be covered tightly with aluminum foil during the entire cooking process to retain moisture.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days or frozen for longer storage.
What should I do with the slices after cutting?
Place the slices back into the cooking liquid (au jus) to soak up more flavor before serving.
Is the marinating time included in the total cooking time?
No, the 24 to 48 hours of marinating time is essential but is not counted as part of the oven cooking time.
How do I remove excess fat from the refrigerated au jus?
If fat accumulates on top of the liquid after refrigeration, simply lift it off and discard it.
Can this brisket be used for sandwiches?
Yes, it is excellent in a sandwich, especially when topped with melted cheese.
How do I serve this with potatoes?
Serve the brisket with fluffy new potatoes and spoon some of the juicy au jus over the top.
Does the recipe specify how to serve it over mashed potatoes?
Yes, the instructions mention enjoying the brisket over mashed potatoes with gravy as a serving suggestion.
What kind of knife is recommended for removing the fat cap?
A long, serrated knife is recommended for both removing the fat and slicing the meat.
Is this recipe suitable for special occasions?
Yes, its rich flavor and tender texture make it ideal for family gatherings, parties, or special occasions.
Can I use different beef consomme sizes?
The recipe specifies using two cans that are 10 3/4 ounces each.