I am a born and raised Yankee, but I love this recipe for Atlanta Brisket like a true Southerner would! I don’t know what it is about brisket, but wow, is it tasty! I love to make brisket for holidays and this is definitely going on my menu next week.

Why is it called Atlanta Brisket? Coca-Cola is used (Georgia being the birthplace of the world’s greatest soda). Make sure you get regular Coke. I drink diet, but it’s not as good for cooking. My version is pretty standard, but I eliminate the ketchup and only add a few seasonings. I want the flavor of beef to shine through, not tomato!

To make Atlanta Brisket, you will need:

*  3-4 Lb beef brisket

*  1 TSP oil  (can be olive or veggie)

*  2 Cans Coke

*  4 Large onions  (any kind will work, but I love Vidalia)

*  2 TSP brown sugar

*  2 TSP chopped garlic

*  Salt/Pepper to taste

Whisk the Coke, brown sugar, and garlic in a bowl. Set aside.

Trim any excess fat from the brisket. In a large pot, heat the oil and brown the beef on all sides. Sprinkle each side with salt/pepper as you go. (This step takes approximately 10 mins.) Remove the beef from the pot and add in the chopped onion. Cook until the onions are soft. (Another 10-15 mins.)

The brisket can be cooked in the oven or in a slow cooker. Usually, I make mine in the oven. If you also prefer the oven, heat it to 300 degrees. Put the brisket in a 9X13 Pyrex or a disposable pan. Layer the onions on top, then pour the contents of the bowl over everything. Cover with foil. Bake for 4 hours. It’s done when you can easily slip a fork in. Remove from the pan and let rest on a platter for an additional 30 minutes before slicing. Pour reserved sauce over the meat and onions.

Atlanta Brisket is literally melt in your mouth perfection! I like to serve this with any kind of potatoes or rice. If you’re not feeding a big crowd and have leftovers, it makes wonderful sandwiches the next day (think French bread and mustard)!