Description
Sink your teeth into this juicy, flavor-packed Brisket Sandwich with Pickled Red Cabbage! Tender, slow-cooked beef brisket is layered on a soft roll and topped with tangy, crunchy pickled cabbage for the ultimate bite. It’s smoky, savory, slightly sweet, and full of contrast in both flavor and texture.
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Ingredients
For the Brisket:
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2½ to 3 lbs beef brisket
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp smoked paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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½ tsp ground cumin
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp salt
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1 cup beef broth
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½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
For the Pickled Red Cabbage:
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2 cups thinly sliced red cabbage
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½ cup apple cider vinegar
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¼ cup water
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1 tbsp honey or sugar
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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Optional: pinch of chili flakes for heat
For the Sandwich:
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4 sandwich rolls or brioche buns
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Extra BBQ sauce for drizzling
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Optional: sliced pickles, mustard, or mayo
Instructions
Step 1: Season & Sear the Brisket
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Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
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Rub mixture all over the brisket.
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Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Sear brisket on all sides until browned, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Step 2: Cook the Brisket
5. Add beef broth and BBQ sauce to the pot.
6. Cover and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 3–3½ hours, or until fork-tender.
Alternative: Use a slow cooker on low for 8 hours.
7. Let the brisket rest for 15 minutes before shredding with forks.
Step 3: Make the Pickled Red Cabbage
8. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider vinegar, water, honey, salt, and pepper.
9. Bring to a simmer, then pour over sliced red cabbage in a bowl.
10. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes (longer for deeper flavor).
11. Drain before using.
Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches
12. Toast sandwich rolls if desired.
13. Layer with warm shredded brisket and a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce.
14. Top with pickled red cabbage and any additional toppings you like.
15. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Low & Slow – Cooking the brisket slowly makes it tender and juicy.
Rest the Meat – Helps keep juices in when shredding.
Prep Cabbage Ahead – It gets better as it sits and soaks up flavor.
Customize Toppings – Try with avocado, slaw, or crispy onions.
Toast the Bread – Adds structure and prevents sogginess.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Cuisine: American