Economical But Oh So Tender Beef Brisket Recipes
Brisket is basically the chest of the cow, and as such includes the ribs. So not the easy to sort out steaks, but a joint with loads of flavour that responds to the right sort of cooking. At one time any beef would only be eaten by the rich , which is why in English the word beef comes from the Norman French ‘Beouf’ . the Normans ate the meat. The Saxons looked after the animals - so it is their word Cow that is used for the animal. Cattle comes from Latin and meant movable property - as in chattels.
In those times of course cattle were only killed at certain times of year - the autumn to save providing for winter fodder. This meant that meat had to be preserved - usually by salting it. It also meant that it wasn’t always as fresh as it might be - hence the use of spices in medieval times to cover any bad tastes.
Brisket is an economic joint that works best in recipes that specify long slow cooking - 5 or 6 hours as opposed to minute steak. I find a slow cooker is great if you have one. It is usually purchased ready boned and rolled. Because the animal uses its chest muscles all the time the muscle is firm and would be tough unless cooked slowly.
Oh So Tender
I cook this in a slow cooker, but a roasting bag in a slow oven will work just as well. If using a slow cooker have it on full power for an hour and then place the meat inside and turn it down.
3 lbs, just under 1
