step 1
In a mixing bowl, combine the Brown Sugar (2 Tbsp), Sweet Paprika (1 Tbsp), Salt (2 tsp), Garlic Powder (2 tsp), Dry Mustard (2 tsp), Onion Powder (1 tsp), Ground Black Pepper (as needed), Cayenne Pepper (as needed), and Ground Cinnamon (as needed). Mix well.
step 2
Rinse the Beef Brisket (1) and pat it dry with paper towels. Ensure it's completely dry. Generously apply the dry rub to all sides of the brisket, not just the top and bottom. Place the seasoned brisket into a large ziplock bag and refrigerate it overnight to marinate.
step 3
The next day, remove the brisket from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).
step 4
In a large Dutch oven, heat the Olive Oil (2 Tbsp) over high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned brisket and sear each side for about 4 minutes, or until nicely browned. Transfer the seared brisket to a plate or tray.
step 5
In the same Dutch oven, over medium heat, add the Yellow Onions (2), Carrots (3), Apple (1), Baby Potato (1 lb), Garlic (6 cloves), Salt (1 tsp), and Ground Black Pepper (as needed). Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes.
step 6
Pour in the Apple Cider (3 cups) and use a spatula to scrape the bottom of the Dutch oven to release any seared and browned bits. Return the seared brisket to the Dutch oven.
step 7
Add the Low-Sodium Beef Broth (3 cups), Fresh Thyme (6 sprigs), and Bay Leaves (2). Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise the brisket in the oven for about 1.5 hours.
step 8
After 1.5 hours, remove the Dutch oven from the oven, uncover it, and flip the brisket over. Cover it again with the lid and place it back in the oven to cook for another hour or until the meat becomes tender. You can check the tenderness by inserting a fork into the brisket.
step 9
Uncover and let the brisket rest in the Dutch oven for 30 minutes. Then remove to a cutting board. Heat the vegetables over medium high heat. Bring to a boil and cook until the sauce slightly thickens about 10-15 minutes.
step 10
Slice the brisket across the grain and place on the platter. Serve with the vegetables and sauce.