Tender Oven Brisket (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Protein

01 - 3½ to 4½ pounds beef brisket flat cut, with fat layer trimmed to ¼ inch thickness

→ Aromatic Spice Blend

02 - 1 tablespoon dried thyme
03 - 1 tablespoon smoky paprika
04 - 2 teaspoons coarse black pepper, freshly cracked
05 - 2 teaspoons kosher salt
06 - 1 teaspoon onion powder
07 - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
08 - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
09 - ½ teaspoon ground cumin

→ Flavor Enhancers

10 - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
11 - 1 cup barbecue sauce

# Instructions:

01 - Heat your oven to 300°F. If needed, trim the brisket's fat cap down to about ¼ inch using a sharp knife. Combine all the dry spices in a small mixing bowl and set aside for the rub.
02 - Place your brisket in a spacious baking dish and generously sprinkle the spice mixture over the entire surface. Massage the seasoning into both sides of the meat with your hands, ensuring every inch is well-coated.
03 - Position the brisket with the fat side facing up, then drizzle the Worcestershire sauce and barbecue sauce over the top. Use a butter knife to spread the sauce evenly across the meat's surface.
04 - Seal the baking dish completely with aluminum foil and slide it into the preheated oven. Let it cook undisturbed for exactly 2 hours - resist the urge to peek!
05 - Carefully remove the pan and peel back the foil. Flip the brisket to the other side, re-cover tightly with foil, and return to the oven for another 1½ to 2 hours until it's tender enough to slice effortlessly.
06 - Take the brisket out and transfer it to a clean cutting board. Slice against the grain, spoon some of the rich pan juices over the slices, and serve while hot.

# Notes:

01 - When trimming the fat cap, leave about ¼ inch of fat to help lock in moisture and add richness to the cooking juices.
02 - Always slice against the grain by looking for the direction of the muscle fibers and cutting perpendicular to them for maximum tenderness.
03 - Leftover brisket keeps well wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
04 - For reheating, use low heat (250°F oven) with foil cover, or add a splash of broth when microwaving to maintain moisture.