Mediterranean-Style Brisket is a delicious and hearty dish that features tender, slow-cooked brisket infused with Mediterranean flavors. The brisket is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices, then braised with ingredients like tomatoes, olives, and garlic to create a rich, savory sauce. This comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mediterranean-Style Brisket with a side of couscous, rice, or potatoes to absorb the flavorful sauce. Accompany the meal with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables. For a complete dining experience, consider adding some warm pita bread or a yogurt-based sauce on the side.
Pairing Ideas
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. It complements grain-based sides such as couscous or rice, providing a base to soak up the rich sauce. It also works nicely with roasted or steamed vegetables, adding freshness and texture. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some tangy pickled vegetables.
Tips and Notes
- Brisket: Use a well-marbled brisket for the best results. Browning the meat before braising helps to develop a deeper flavor and creates a nice crust.
- Seasoning: Adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your taste. Mediterranean flavors can include rosemary, thyme, oregano, and cumin, which add complexity to the dish.
- Braising: Cook the brisket slowly over low heat to ensure it becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the sauce. This can be done in a Dutch oven, a slow cooker, or an oven.
- Storage: Store any leftover brisket and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Enjoy the rich and savory flavors of Mediterranean-Style Brisket as a comforting and flavorful centerpiece for your meal!
Mediterranean-Style Brisket
Equipment
- Large roasting pan or Dutch oven
- Aluminum foil (if using a roasting pan)
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 4 to 5 pounds beef brisket
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup dry red wine optional
- 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 lemon zest and juice
- 1 cup Kalamata olives pitted
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Season the Brisket: Season the brisket generously on all sides with salt and pepper.
- Brown the Brisket: In a large roasting pan or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the brisket and sear until browned on both sides, about 4 minutes per side. Remove the brisket and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the pan, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Deglaze: (Optional) Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow to reduce by half.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook the Brisket: Return the brisket to the pan. Add lemon zest and juice, and olives. Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Transfer to the oven and cook for about 4 hours, or until the brisket is very tender.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the brisket from the oven and let it rest for about 20 minutes before slicing against the grain. Serve slices of brisket with the sauce spooned over the top, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.