Corned Beef and Cabbage is a hearty, classic dish that has stood the test of time. Perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any family dinner, this recipe is easy to make and full of comforting flavors.
Ingredients
For the Corned Beef:
- 3–5 lbs corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 2 teaspoons mustard seeds
- 6 cups water or beef broth
For the Vegetables:
- 1 medium cabbage, cut into wedges
- 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 medium potatoes (red or Yukon Gold), quartered
- 2 large onions, quartered
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Corned Beef
- Rinse the brisket under cold water to remove excess brine.
- Place the brisket in a large stockpot and add water or beef broth.
- Add the spice packet, bay leaves, peppercorns, and mustard seeds.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 2.5–3 hours, or until the meat is tender.
2. Cook the Vegetables
- In the last 45 minutes of cooking, add the carrots, potatoes, and onions to the pot.
- Simmer until the vegetables are tender.
- Remove the meat and vegetables from the pot, reserving the broth.
3. Cook the Cabbage
- Add the cabbage wedges to the reserved broth and simmer for 15 minutes or until tender.
4. Slice and Serve
- Slice the corned beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Arrange the meat, cabbage, and vegetables on a platter.
- Serve with mustard, horseradish, or your favorite sauce.
Tips for the Best Corned Beef and Cabbage
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Add it at the end for a perfect texture.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a bottle of stout beer or beef stock to the cooking liquid for richer taste.
- Slice Against the Grain: This ensures tender slices of corned beef.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Irish soda bread or colcannon for a traditional Irish meal.
- Serve with a side of tangy mustard or creamy horseradish sauce.
FAQs
Can I Use a Slow Cooker for Corned Beef and Cabbage?
Yes, simply place all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8–10 hours.
How Do I Prevent Mushy Vegetables?
Add vegetables in the last 45 minutes to keep them from overcooking.
What Cut of Beef is Best?
Flat-cut brisket is leaner, while point-cut brisket is juicier and more flavorful.
Internal Links
For more comforting recipes, check out:
External Links
- Learn about the history of corned beef.
- Master brisket with perfect brisket preparation tips.
- Try a traditional Irish Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe.
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