Basic Beef Brisket in a Dutch Oven

Step 1
Sprinkle brisket with seasoned salt and black pepper.

Step 2
Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear brisket in hot oil until browned on both sides, then transfer to a large plate. Cook and stir onions and garlic in the Dutch oven until vegetables are softened, about 6 minutes. Return brisket to the Dutch oven.

Step 3
Whisk beef broth, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, chili powder, bay leaves, and cayenne pepper together in a bowl; drizzle over brisket.

Step 4
Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until beef is very tender and easily falls apart when pulled with a fork, 2 1/2 to 3 hours. Remove and discard bay leaves. Transfer beef to a platter, reserving liquid in the Dutch oven. Slice beef.

Step 5
Whisk water and flour together in a small bowl; stir into the Dutch oven and bring to a boil until sauce is thickened. Serve sauce over sliced brisket.