Secret Slow Cooker Brisket

I feel like we are friends now.  I wasn't sure at first, but you have won me over!  I think it was hearing you sing "Sweet Emotion" while gargling that did it.  I knew putting that camera and microphone in your bathroom was a good idea. That being said, I think its time for me to share an old family secret with you.  It's a recipe that has been passed down from generation to generation.  The legend says that great-great-great (you get the idea) Grand-pappy Micheal was making this in the crock pot on the Mayflower for the pilgrims.

World Famous Michael Family Slow Cooker Brisket with Brown Gravy

Ingredients

Canola oil
1 (2 1/2 to 3 pound) brisket
Kosher salt
1 bunch parsley, stems reserved and leaves chopped
2 stalks celery with leaves, chopped
1 bay leaf
1 (14.5-ounce) can beef broth
2 cups red wine (drinking or cooking)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 packet slow cooker pot roast seasoning
2 yellow onions, chopped
2 large carrots, sliced
2 (8-ounce) packages mixed wild mushrooms
1 (.87-ounce) packet brown gravy mix
1 cup cold water

Directions

In a large skillet, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Season the brisket on both sides with a generous pinch of salt. Sear the brisket in the hot pan until browned, about 4 minutes per side.  This part is most satisfying.

To ye olde slow cooker, add the parsley stems, celery and bay leaf. Put the seared brisket on top of the vegetables. Say "BLAMMO" as loud as possible, as this is the secret magic that seals in the juices.  In a large bowl whisk together the broth, wine, tomato paste, and pot roast seasoning. Pour the mixture over the brisket, top with onions, and cook on high for about 6 hours or low for about 9 hours, until the meat is super tender. One hour before the brisket is done - throw in the carrots, and mushrooms.

Remove the meat, carrots, and mushrooms from the slow cooker and set aside. Strain the liquid into a medium pan over medium-high heat. In a small bowl, whisk together the gravy mix with 1 cup of cold water. Turn the heat to medium and whisk in the gravy mixture. Cook until thickened, about 2 minutes.

Cut up and arrange the brisket on a serving platter If you are feeling fancy. I eat it out of the slow cooker if no one is around.

Enjoy, and never ever tell this secret to anyone!