Braised Beef Brisket with Daikon

Braised Beef Brisket with Daikon is a delicious Chinese stew that combines tender beef brisket with soft, flavorful daikon radish. The dish is rich in taste and has a heartwarming, homestyle feel. The deep, savory flavor of the beef pairs perfectly with the mild sweetness of the daikon, creating a balance of flavors in every bite.

To make the perfect Braised Beef Brisket with Daikon, it's all in the details. Next, we'll go over some important tips and techniques to help you successfully recreate this dish at home.

1.Choosing and Substituting Ingredients:

Beef Brisket:

The star of this dish, brisket is full of connective tissue and fat, which makes it tender and juicy when cooked slowly. If you can’t find beef brisket, you can substitute with chuck roast or beef shank, which are also good options. Look for these cuts in your supermarket.

Daikon Radish:

Daikon adds a subtle sweetness and soft texture to the dish. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with regular carrots or zucchini, which offer a similar texture and freshness.

Star Anise:

This spice gives the dish a unique aroma. If you don’t have it, you can skip it or use a small amount of fennel seeds as a substitute.

Cinnamon Sticks:

Cinnamon adds warmth to the dish. If you don’t have cinnamon sticks, you can use 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon instead.

Black Cardamom (Cao Guo):

This spice has a smoky flavor and can be hard to find. You can replace it with 1-2 green cardamom pods.

Soy Sauce (Light and Dark):

Light soy sauce is used for seasoning, while dark soy sauce adds color. If you only have one type, use light soy sauce, but increase the amount of sugar slightly to balance the flavors.

Chili Paste:

Any spicy chili paste, such as Sriracha, works well for this dish. If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to skip this ingredient.

2.Cooking Tools and Substitutions:

Pressure Cooker:

Using a pressure cooker will cut down the cooking time to just 40 minutes, making the beef soft and tender. If you don’t have a pressure cooker, a slow cooker (4-6 hours on low) or a regular pot (1.5-2 hours on low heat) will also work.

Regular Pot:

If you’re using a regular pot, keep the heat low and make sure the beef is always covered with water. Check occasionally to prevent it from drying out.

3.Detailed Cooking Techniques:

Preparing the Beef:

Soaking the beef in cold water for 30 minutes before cooking will remove excess blood and result in a cleaner broth. If you have time, marinate the beef with soy sauce, rice wine, and pepper for 30 minutes to enhance flavor.

Sautéing Spices:

When sautéing spices like star anise and cinnamon sticks, use medium heat. Overcooking can make the spices bitter. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant.

Braising the Beef:

Water is key in braising. Add just enough water to cover the beef. Too much water will dilute the flavor, while too little may dry out the beef. If needed, add more hot water during cooking to maintain the right level.

Adding the Daikon:

Add the daikon after the beef is already tender. Daikon only needs 10-15 minutes to cook through, keeping its shape and texture while absorbing the flavors.

Thickening the Sauce:

When adding the cornstarch mixture, stir continuously to prevent clumping. If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of cornstarch for a thinner consistency.

Final Flavor Boost:

Adding a teaspoon of sesame oil just before serving will enhance the aroma and give the dish a richer flavor. A little vegetable oil will add shine and improve the presentation.

4.Tips for Success:

Make Ahead:

You can prepare the beef and spices the night before. The next day, simply finish cooking the dish, saving you time.

Serving Suggestions:

This dish is perfect served with rice or steamed buns to soak up the rich, flavorful sauce.

Storing and Reheating:

This stew tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in the fridge for 2-3 days and reheat before serving.

By following these detailed steps and tips, even beginner cooks can confidently make a delicious, tender Braised Beef Brisket with Daikon that’s packed with flavor!

5.More Delicious Beef Recipes:

If you enjoyed this Braised Beef Brisket with Daikon, check out these other easy and flavorful beef recipes, perfect for your next gathering!

Braised beef（卤牛肉）

Sichuan Boiled Beef

Beef Stew with Potatoes