why make this recipe
Easy Corned Beef and Cabbage is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. It’s especially popular during St. Patrick’s Day, but you can enjoy it anytime! This recipe is simple to follow, and it showcases the tender corned beef paired with hearty vegetables. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, and the flavors meld beautifully as they cook together.
how to make Easy Corned Beef and Cabbage
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds Corned Beef Brisket (Cured in seasoned brine for flavor and tenderness.)
- 1 medium head Cabbage (About 2-3 pounds, cut into wedges.)
- 4 medium Carrots (Peeled and cut into chunks.)
- 2 medium Onions (Quartered.)
- 4 cloves Garlic (Minced.)
- 1 tablespoon Black Peppercorns (Whole, for flavor.)
- 2 Bay Leaves (For added aroma.)
- 2 tablespoons Mustard (Served on the side.)
- Enough to cover Water or Broth (Use beef broth for richer flavor.)
Directions
- Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water and pat dry.
- In a large pot, add enough water or beef broth to cover the brisket and bring to a gentle boil.
- Place the corned beef brisket into the pot, add black peppercorns and bay leaves, and reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 2 to 2.5 hours until tender, adding more liquid if necessary.
- Prepare the vegetables: peel and chop carrots, quarter onions, and mince garlic.
- After 2 hours, add onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot and cook for another 30 minutes.
- Cut cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and cut into wedges.
- Add cabbage to the pot, cover, and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Remove the brisket, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice against the grain.
- Serve hot with mustard on the side.
how to serve Easy Corned Beef and Cabbage
Serve Easy Corned Beef and Cabbage hot, right after cooking. Lay out slices of corned beef on a large platter alongside the cooked cabbage, carrots, and onions. Offer mustard on the side for dipping. This dish pairs well with crusty bread and a cold beverage.
how to store Easy Corned Beef and Cabbage
If you have leftovers, let the dish cool down and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just reheat it gently before serving.
tips to make Easy Corned Beef and Cabbage
- For extra flavor, use beef broth instead of water.
- Make sure to slice the brisket against the grain for tender pieces.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or turnips for more variety.
variation
You can try adding other spices like cloves or allspice to enhance the flavors. Some people also like to add a splash of beer to the pot for a unique taste.
FAQs
1. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can follow the same steps and cook it on low for 8-10 hours.
2. Is corned beef gluten-free?
Most corned beef is gluten-free, but check the label to be sure since some brands may use additives.
3. What sides go well with corned beef and cabbage?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or even colcannon (mashed potatoes with cabbage) work nicely as sides.