Place brisket in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add water, soy sauce, and pepper; cover and simmer for 2- 1/2 to 3 hours. Add onion, green bell pepper, raisins, brown sugar, and apple slices; simmer for 30 to 40 minutes more. Remove brisket and slice. Serve, covered with pan juices.

You can also add a touch of hot pepper sauce or garlic to "heat up" the recipe.