Before doing anything else, pat dry the beef brisket and trim off some excess fat. Rub the seasoning mix (paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, onion powder, salt, and pepper) all over the meat, ensuring it’s evenly coated.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the brisket on all sides until browned. This will lock in flavor, so don’t skip it! Once done, transfer the brisket to the slow cooker.

Grab a bowl and whisk together Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, tomato paste, mustard, chili powder, ketchup, molasses, and liquid smoke (if desired). Pour this rich sauce over the brisket.

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low. Cook the brisket for 8-10 hours. This is where the magic happens, as the meat becomes tender and absorbs all the barbecue sauce flavors.

Once cooked, carefully remove the brisket from the slow cooker and allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This step is crucial for juicy slices. Using a sharp knife, slice against the grain.

Drizzle more barbecue sauce over the slices and serve with your favorite sides. Enjoy this heartwarming dish!