Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Pat the brisket dry with paper towels and season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy roasting pan over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket fat-side down for 4-5 minutes until deep brown, then flip and sear the other side for another 4-5 minutes. Remove brisket and set aside.
- Add remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Add sliced onions and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 15-20 minutes until they're golden brown and caramelized.
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Add wine if using, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Return brisket to the pan fat-side up, nestling it into the onions. The liquid should come about halfway up the sides of the meat.
- Cover tightly with foil or a lid and braise in the oven for 3-4 hours, until the meat is fork-tender and shreds easily.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 15 minutes. Transfer brisket to a cutting board and slice against the grain. Strain the cooking liquid and skim off excess fat before serving as gravy.
Notes
For best results, make this brisket a day ahead. Cool completely, refrigerate overnight, then remove solidified fat and reheat gently. The meat will be easier to slice when cold. Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
