As the sun sets and the aroma of a warm kitchen beckons, there’s nothing like the alluring scent of tender brisket cooking away. Picture this: succulent slices of beef, infused with a sweet and savory maple soy apricot sauce that dances on your palate. I first discovered this transformational recipe when a friend invited me over for a holiday gathering, and I’ve been hooked ever since. The best part? You can make this impressive dish with a sous vide method, ensuring effortless perfection every time.
Whether you’re planning a family feast or simply craving something extraordinary, this brisket will elevate any occasion. It’s not just about the meal; it’s about sharing moments around the table, where homemade flavors create lasting memories. And fear not if sous vide isn’t your thing—there’s a simple oven method waiting for you too! So roll up your sleeves and dive into this delicious adventure that promises melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and a flavor profile that leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Why is this the Best Sous Vide Brisket?
Tenderness Like No Other: The sous vide method transforms tough brisket into a melt-in-your-mouth delicacy, locking in moisture and flavor for the ultimate bite.
Fabulous Flavor Fusion: The unique maple soy apricot sauce adds a delightful balance of sweetness and umami, ensuring every mouthful is a taste sensation.
Make-Ahead Magic: This recipe is perfect for planning ahead—simply prep and cook, allowing you to savor the special moments without stress.
Versatile Cooking Options: Not equipped for sous vide? Don’t worry! A simple oven method is included, making this recipe accessible for everyone.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday feast, this brisket is bound to impress your guests and have them clamoring for the recipe—it’s the centerpiece of any meal!
Elevate your cooking game with this deceptively simple yet luxurious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Best Sous Vide Brisket Ingredients
For the Brisket
• Brisket – A tough cut of beef that becomes incredibly tender through slow cooking; opt for the Choice cut for superior flavor.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor and keeps the meat moist; a dry brine with 1/2 tsp per pound is recommended.
• Black Pepper – Adds a hint of heat that complements the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder – Offers depth and savoriness that elevates the meat’s taste.
For the Maple Soy Apricot Sauce
• Maple Syrup – Contributes sweetness and balances the savory notes; you can substitute with brown sugar if needed.
• Soy Sauce – Brings umami and saltiness; low sodium is a great choice for healthier cooking.
• Apricot Preserves – Adds fruity sweetness and texture; feel free to swap in peach or apricot jam if desired.
• Tomato Sauce – Keeps the sauce rich and flavorful; can be replaced by ketchup (reduce maple syrup slightly).
• Onion Soup Mix – Enhances the sauce’s flavor; a homemade version allows better control over saltiness.
• Lemon Juice – Adds a nice touch of acidity for balance; adjust according to your taste preference.
For Thickeners and Optional Ingredients
• Cornstarch – Perfect for thickening the sauce to your desired consistency.
• Sriracha (optional) – Introduces a spicy kick if you crave some heat in the sauce.
• Ground Cinnamon (optional) – Adds warmth and complexity, enriching the sauce’s flavor profile.
Dive into this Best Sous Vide Brisket recipe, and let each ingredient contribute to a culinary experience that you and your loved ones won’t soon forget!
How to Make Best Sous Vide Brisket
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Brine (Optional): If you choose to brine, generously coat the brisket with kosher salt. Place it in the fridge for 4 hours to overnight. This enhances flavor and moisture without any rinsing required.
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Prepare Sous Vide: Heat your water bath to the desired temperature—135°F for medium-rare or 155°F for medium-well. Sprinkle the brisket with black pepper and garlic powder, adding more salt if you skipped brining.
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Sous Vide Cooking: Seal the seasoned brisket in a vacuum bag. Alternatively, use the water displacement method in a zipper bag. Immerse it in the sous vide for 26-36 hours, depending on the brisket’s thickness.
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Make the Sauce: In a microwave-safe dish, mix your maple syrup, soy sauce, apricot preserves, tomato sauce, onion soup mix, and lemon juice. Heat until warm, stirring and adjusting seasoning to your liking.
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Finish in Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F. Carefully remove the brisket from the sous vide, discarding the cooking liquid. Transfer the brisket to a roasting pan, pour the sauce over it, and bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Broil for 3 minutes to achieve a lovely glaze.
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Slice & Serve: Once finished cooking, let the brisket rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain. Serve it with any remaining sauce, or keep it warm in the sauce until you’re ready to serve.
Optional: Add fresh parsley as a garnish for a pop of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Best Sous Vide Brisket with Maple Soy Apricot Sauce are the perfect solution for busy weeknights or festive gatherings! You can dry brine the brisket up to 24 hours in advance; this step enhances flavor and moisture without additional fuss. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to save time—heat it just before serving! When you’re ready to enjoy, simply cook the brisket in the sous vide and finish it in the oven as instructed. This make-ahead approach not only saves you time but ensures your brisket retains its succulent tenderness and rich flavors, truly impressing your family and friends.
Expert Tips for the Best Sous Vide Brisket
- Brining Benefits: Dry brining with kosher salt enhances flavor and moisture. Remember, no rinsing needed—just pat the brisket dry before cooking!
- Time Matters: Adjust sous vide cooking times according to the brisket thickness for the best results—experiment to find your ideal tenderness!
- Seal it Tight: Ensure the brisket is properly sealed in the bag to avoid floating during sous vide cooking, which ensures even and safe cooking.
- Resting is Key: Allow the brisket to rest after cooking; this step helps maintain juiciness when slicing for a perfect presentation.
- Sauce Swaps: Feel free to play with different preserves, spices, or even a splash of bourbon in the sauce for a unique twist on the best sous vide brisket!
What to Serve with Best Sous Vide Brisket with Maple Soy Apricot Sauce?
Elevate your meal by pairing tender brisket with delightful sides that balance flavors and textures beautifully.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Velvety and buttery mashed potatoes absorb the savory sauce, providing an exquisite contrast to the brisket’s sweetness.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a touch of caramelized sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the richness of the meat.
- Garlic Green Beans: Crisp-tender green beans sautéed with garlic enhance the dish’s flavor profile while adding a refreshing crunch.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw on the side brings a delightful contrast to the warm, rich brisket, making every bite exciting.
- Buttery Cornbread: Soft and sweet, cornbread is perfect for mopping up the delicious sauce, blending simplicity with the gourmet flavors of the dish.
- Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine, perhaps a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, complements the savory flavors of the brisket with its bold profile.
- Apple Crisp: Finish with a warm apple crisp, where the sweet, spiced apples harmonize beautifully with the savory main course for a perfect sweet ending.
- Homemade Pickles: For a punch of acidity, serving pickles adds a refreshing crunch, cleansing the palate between bites of rich brisket.
- Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until golden and crispy, Brussels sprouts with a sprinkle of salt offer a delightful crunch that pairs perfectly with tender meat.
- Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, lemon sorbet acts as a palate cleanser, making it a perfect transition from your hearty meal to dessert!
How to Store and Freeze Best Sous Vide Brisket
Fridge: Store leftover brisket in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. To maintain moisture, slice only the portion you’ll use right away.
Freezer: Wrap the brisket tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or place it in a vacuum-sealed bag for freezing. It will last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in the oven at 250°F for about 30 minutes, covering with foil. Serve with the reserved maple soy apricot sauce to keep it juicy.
Make-Ahead: Cooking in advance? This best sous vide brisket gets even better after a few days as the flavors meld together, making it a fantastic option for meal prep!
Best Sous Vide Brisket Variations
Feel free to infuse your creativity into this dish and tailor the flavors just for you!
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Fruit Preserve Swap: Try using peach or raspberry preserves for a unique twist on sweetness. Each fruit brings its own delightful flavor profile.
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Bourbon Boost: Add a splash of bourbon to the sauce for a smoky depth—a culinary adventure that awakens the taste buds.
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate different hot sauces or spices like chili powder for a spicy dimension that will tantalize those who love heat.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into the sous vide bag; they’ll infuse your brisket with aromatic goodness while it cooks.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in root vegetables like carrots and potatoes in the roasting pan along with the brisket. They’ll soak up that delicious sauce, creating a hearty meal all in one.
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Zesty Citrus: Add orange zest or lemon zest to the sauce for a bright, refreshing twist, balancing the richness of the brisket perfectly.
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Smoky Flavor: For a smoked flavor, briefly smoke the brisket before sous vide cooking. This adds a lovely complexity and depth that lovers of barbecue will appreciate.
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Glaze Variations: Mix in some Dijon mustard or honey into the glaze for an extra layer of complexity and sweetness that will keep everyone guessing.
Best Sous Vide Brisket with Maple Soy Apricot Sauce Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting brisket?
Absolutely! When choosing brisket, look for cuts labeled as “Choice” (or AAA in Canada) for the best flavor. You’ll want to pick a piece with good marbling—think intramuscular fat—that ensures a rich, juicy result after cooking. Avoid briskets with excessive dark spots or an overly dry surface, as that can indicate age or poor quality.
How should I store leftover brisket?
Very good question! Leftover brisket can be refrigerated in an airtight container for 3-5 days. To keep it moist, I suggest slicing only the portions you’ll be enjoying immediately. The rest should be kept whole until you’re ready to serve again.
Can I freeze brisket for later use?
Certainly! Wrap your brisket tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil or place it in a vacuum-sealed bag to preserve its quality. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight for the best results.
What is the best way to reheat brisket?
Reheating brisket properly makes all the difference! Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Carefully place the brisket in the oven, covering it with foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 30 minutes, and serve it topped with the reserved maple soy apricot sauce to keep it juicy and flavorful.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! One of the beauties of this best sous vide brisket is that it can be made ahead. The flavors emerge even more deliciously after a day or two in the fridge, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Just reheating your brisket is all that’s needed when you’re ready to serve!
Are there any dietary considerations for this brisket?
Great question! This sous vide brisket does contain soy sauce, which can be a concern for those with gluten allergies or sensitivities. Feel free to substitute with a gluten-free soy sauce or tamari. Additionally, if you’re serving this dish to pets, remember that certain seasonings can be harmful, so always check what is safe for them!
Best Sous Vide Brisket with Maple Soy Apricot Sauce Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Brine (Optional): Coat brisket with kosher salt and refrigerate for 4 hours to overnight.
- Prepare Sous Vide: Heat water bath to 135°F for medium-rare or 155°F for medium-well. Season brisket with pepper and garlic powder.
- Sous Vide Cooking: Seal brisket in vacuum bag and immerse in sous vide for 26-36 hours.
- Make the Sauce: Mix maple syrup, soy sauce, apricot preserves, tomato sauce, onion soup mix, and lemon juice in a microwave-safe dish. Heat until warm.
- Finish in Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F, transfer brisket to roasting pan, pour sauce over it, and bake uncovered for 30 minutes. Broil for 3 minutes.
- Slice & Serve: Let the brisket rest before slicing against the grain and serving with sauce.