How To Cook 800g Brisket In Slow Cooker [GUIDE]

Brisket is one of the most flavorful cuts of beef, prized for its rich marbling and deep, beefy taste. Originating from the lower chest of the cow, brisket can be tough if not cooked properly, but when prepared with patience and care, it transforms into a tender, succulent dish that melts in your mouth. Slow cooking is an ideal method for brisket, as it allows the connective tissue to break down gently over time, producing meat that is both tender and flavorful. Whether you are preparing a weeknight dinner or aiming to impress guests, a slow-cooked brisket delivers comfort, warmth, and complexity in every bite.

Cooking an 800g brisket in a slow cooker is particularly convenient because it requires minimal hands-on time while allowing you to focus on creating a robust seasoning or sauce. However, even with this simple method, attention to cooking times, temperatures, and seasoning is key to achieving a perfectly cooked brisket.

Contents

• 1 How Long To Cook 800g Brisket In Slow Cooker
• 2 How To Tell If It Is Done
• 3 Ingredients Needed
• 4 How To Cook 800g Brisket In Slow Cooker
• 5 When Things Go Wrong
• 6 Expert Tips
• 7 Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?
• 8 Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker
• 9 FAQs
  • 9.1 What Is The Ideal Cooking Time For 800g Brisket In A Slow Cooker?
  • 9.2 Should I Sear The Brisket Before Placing It In The Slow Cooker?
  • 9.3 How Much Liquid Should I Add To The Slow Cooker?
  • 9.4 What Seasonings Work Best For Brisket In A Slow Cooker?
  • 9.5 Can I Cook Vegetables With The Brisket In The Slow Cooker?
  • 9.6 How Do I Check If The Brisket Is Fully Cooked?
  • 9.7 Can I Use Frozen Brisket In A Slow Cooker?
  • 9.8 Should I Cover The Slow Cooker While Cooking Brisket?
  • 9.9 How Do I Make A Sauce Or Gravy From The Brisket Cooking Juices?
  • 9.10 How Should I Store Leftover Brisket?

How Long To Cook 800g Brisket In Slow Cooker

Cooking times for brisket in a slow cooker can vary depending on the recipe, the size of the cut, and whether you are cooking on high or low heat. For an 800g brisket, the general guidelines are:

• Low heat: 7-9 hours
• High heat: 4-6 hours

Slow cooking on low is generally recommended for brisket, as it allows the collagen in the meat to break down gradually, resulting in a tender and juicy texture. Cooking on high heat is faster but can risk slightly less tender meat if not monitored closely.

It’s important to avoid removing the lid frequently, as each time you lift it, the temperature inside drops and prolongs the cooking time.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Determining if brisket is done requires a combination of visual cues, texture assessment, and temperature checks:

1. Fork Test: Insert a fork into the thickest part of the meat. If it slides in easily and the meat starts to pull apart, it is done.
2. Internal Temperature: For brisket, an internal temperature of 90-95°C (195-205°F) is ideal. This ensures the collagen has fully broken down and the meat is tender.
3. Juiciness and Flexibility: Done brisket will have a slight give when pressed, but the meat should not feel tough or rubbery. The juices should run clear or slightly pinkish, depending on your seasoning and cooking method.

Ingredients Needed

For a simple, flavorful slow-cooked brisket, you will need:

• 800g beef brisket
• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-2 cups beef stock (or broth)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1-2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional herbs: thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves
• Optional vegetables: carrots, potatoes, or celery

These ingredients form a simple yet rich base for a slow-cooked brisket. You can customize with additional spices, barbecue sauces, or even red wine for deeper flavor.

How To Cook 800g Brisket In Slow Cooker

1. Prepare the Meat: Trim excess fat from the brisket if desired, but leaving some fat helps retain moisture during cooking. Season generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Sear the Brisket: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the brisket on all sides until browned. This step enhances flavor but is optional if you prefer a simpler preparation.
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Layer onions, garlic, and optional vegetables at the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the brisket on top.
4. Add Liquids: Pour beef stock and Worcestershire sauce over the brisket. The liquid should cover about half of the meat. Add herbs if desired.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-9 hours, or high for 4-6 hours, until the brisket is tender. Avoid opening the lid unnecessarily.
6. Rest: Once done, remove the brisket and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing against the grain for maximum tenderness.

When Things Go Wrong

Even with a slow cooker, things can occasionally go wrong:

• Tough Brisket: Usually undercooked. Continue cooking on low, adding a bit more liquid if necessary.
• Dry Meat: Could be overcooked or not enough fat present. Serve with the cooking juices or a sauce to moisten.
• Flavor Too Bland: Add salt or spices during the last 30-60 minutes of cooking to avoid overpowering the meat early on.

Expert Tips

• Brown the Meat: Searing before slow cooking adds a rich depth of flavor.
• Low and Slow: Patience is key-slow cooking on low produces the best texture.
• Don’t Skimp on Liquid: Even though slow cookers retain moisture, a little extra stock ensures juiciness.
• Slice Against the Grain: This makes each bite tender and easier to chew.
• Leftover Juices Are Gold: Use them to make gravy or sauce.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Yes, an 800g brisket can be cooked without a slow cooker:

• Oven Method: Wrap the brisket in foil, add liquid, and cook at 150°C (300°F) for 3-4 hours, checking occasionally.
• Stovetop Braise: Brown the brisket in a heavy pot, add liquid, cover, and simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours.

The key is to maintain low, steady heat to allow the connective tissue to break down gradually.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

Reheating brisket is best done gently to avoid drying it out:

1. Slice or shred the brisket and place it in the slow cooker.
2. Add a small amount of cooking juices or beef stock.
3. Heat on low for 1-2 hours until warmed through.
4. Stir occasionally to distribute heat evenly.

Avoid reheating on high, as this can dry out the meat.

FAQs

What Is The Ideal Cooking Time For 800g Brisket In A Slow Cooker?

For 800g of brisket, cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high heat for 4 to 5 hours. Low heat is recommended for more tender, evenly cooked meat.

Should I Sear The Brisket Before Placing It In The Slow Cooker?

Searing is optional but recommended. Browning the brisket in a hot pan before slow cooking enhances flavor through the Maillard reaction and helps lock in juices.

How Much Liquid Should I Add To The Slow Cooker?

Add enough liquid to cover about one-third to half of the brisket. Typically, 250-300ml of beef broth, stock, or a combination of broth and wine works well to maintain moisture and create a flavorful base.

What Seasonings Work Best For Brisket In A Slow Cooker?

Common seasonings include salt, black pepper, garlic, onion, paprika, and thyme. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for extra depth of flavor.

Can I Cook Vegetables With The Brisket In The Slow Cooker?

Yes. Root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips work well. Add them at the start if you want them very soft, or halfway through cooking for firmer vegetables.

How Do I Check If The Brisket Is Fully Cooked?

The brisket is done when it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. Internally, it should reach approximately 90-95°C (195-203°F) for optimal tenderness.

Can I Use Frozen Brisket In A Slow Cooker?

It is not recommended to cook frozen brisket in a slow cooker, as it can remain in the temperature danger zone for too long. Thaw the brisket in the refrigerator overnight before slow cooking.

Should I Cover The Slow Cooker While Cooking Brisket?

Yes. Keeping the lid on ensures even heat distribution, retains moisture, and prevents the brisket from drying out. Avoid lifting the lid frequently.

How Do I Make A Sauce Or Gravy From The Brisket Cooking Juices?

Once the brisket is cooked, remove it and strain the cooking liquid. To make a gravy, simmer the liquid and thicken with a slurry of cornstarch and water or reduce it over medium heat until it reaches the desired consistency.

How Should I Store Leftover Brisket?

Allow the brisket to cool to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months, ideally sliced and wrapped tightly in foil or freezer-safe packaging.