FoodRecipes

Beer-Braised Brisket Sliders with IPA Caramelized Onions

Nothing pairs better with Midtown Sacramento’s craft beer scene than a hearty, flavor-packed brisket slider. This beer-braised brisket is slow-cooked to perfection, infused with the rich malty flavors of your favorite West Coast IPA, and topped with sweet caramelized onions cooked in IPA for an extra kick.

These sliders are perfect for a brewery night in, game day, or any gathering where craft beer lovers unite.

Ingredients

For the Brisket

  • 3 lbs beef brisket
  • 1 large yellow onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups IPA (choose a bold, citrusy West Coast IPA like Track 7 Panic IPA)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For the IPA Caramelized Onions

  • 2 large sweet onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup IPA (same as used for brisket)
  • 1 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt

For the Sliders

  • 12 slider buns (brioche or Hawaiian rolls work best)
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
  • Pickles (optional, for extra tang)
  • Shredded cheddar or smoked gouda cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Brisket

  1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker insert over medium-high heat.
  2. Season the brisket with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
  3. Sear the brisket on all sides until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Braising Liquid

  1. In the same pot, sauté the onions until softened, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Stir in brown sugar, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and IPA, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
  4. Add the beef broth, stir, and bring to a simmer.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Brisket

  1. Return the seared brisket to the pot, submerging it in the braising liquid.
  2. Cover and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours (or 8 hours in a slow cooker) until the brisket is tender and shreds easily with a fork.

Step 4: Make the IPA Caramelized Onions

  1. While the brisket cooks, heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  2. Add sliced onions and salt, stirring occasionally. Cook for 15 minutes until softened.
  3. Pour in 1/2 cup IPA and brown sugar, then continue cooking for another 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are golden brown and caramelized.

Step 5: Assemble the Sliders

  1. Shred the brisket in the braising liquid, letting it absorb the flavor.
  2. Toast the slider buns lightly for a crisp texture.
  3. Layer the shredded brisket, IPA caramelized onions, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce on the buns.
  4. Add cheese or pickles if desired.

Pairing Suggestions

  • Beer Pairing: A West Coast IPA (like Urban Roots’ West Coast IPA) complements the smoky brisket and balances the sweetness of the caramelized onions.
  • Side Pairing: Serve with crispy sweet potato fries or a beer cheese dip for the full brewery-style experience.

Final Thoughts

This beer-braised brisket slider recipe captures the bold flavors of Midtown Sacramento’s craft beer scene in a delicious, easy-to-make dish. Whether you’re hosting a brewery-themed party or just want to level up your home-cooked meals, these sliders are the perfect way to bring the taste of Sacramento’s best breweries right to your kitchen.

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