Slow Cooker Apple Cider Braised Brisket

I had never made a brisket before this. I had always heard that brisket was a tough piece of meat and could be tricky to cook well. So I decided to throw it into the slow cooker and give it a go. It came out beautifully with a minimum of prep. The cider gave the gravy a tangy punch. My family gave it the thumbs up!

serves 6-8

1 4-5 pound brisket, trimmed of any excess fat
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves of crushed garlic
3 granny smith apples, halved and cored
2 large onions, peeled and sliced thinly
3 cups apple cider
1/4 apple cider vinegar'
2 tbsp brown sugar
salt and pepper
1/4 cup dry white wine
1/4 cup water
3-4 tbsp cornstarch

Heat the oil in a large skillet, salt and pepper all sides of the brisket. Place the brisket in the hot skillet and sear the meat on all sides. Remove the meat from the skillet and place the meat in the slow cooker. Add the onions and garlic to the skillet to brown stirring continually. Season them with salt and pepper. Deglaze the pan with the wine. Add the onions, garlic and wine to the slow cooker. Place the apples around the sides of the slow cooker. Pour the apple cider, vinegar and brown sugar over all. Cook on high for 6 hours or low for 10. Strain the cooking juices of any leftover fat. Place it a pot, turn on the heat. Whisk the cornstarch into the water and pour it into the pot. Bring to a boil and cook until thickened. I served this over mashed potatoes with oven roasted carrots on the side.