A traditional family favorite that is ideal for a filling weeknight meal is corned beef. Find out how to consistently prepare tender corned beef on the stovetop.
A traditional family favorite, corned beef is incredibly simple to make with only a few ingredients. In this recipe, the beef is slowly simmered on the stovetop for several hours until it is incredibly tender.
Here in Australia, mashed potatoes and vegetables are frequently served with corned beef, or corned meat as it is sometimes known. Although my family has always served it with sour cream, you’ll frequently find it also served with a straightforward white sauce. It’s one of those peculiarities that you might assume wouldn’t work, but don’t dismiss it before giving it a shot!
I strongly advise making corned beef fritters with any leftovers you have after serving this. One of my absolute favourite meals.
How to Cook Corned Beef
Corned beef should be simmered until it is fork tender. To make corned beef:
- Place the corned beef a stock pot. Add a bottle of dark beer, the spice packet, and enough water to completely cover the corned beef.
- It should be brought to a boil, covered, and simmered for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours. Depending on the size and shape of the corned beef, this cooking time will change. Suggested cook time is 45-50 minutes per pound. Ensure it is a low simmer. Check a small piece and ensure it’s tender.
- Remove the corned beef from the liquid once it is fork tender, then let it rest for at least 20 minutes.
Add the vegetables to the corned beef water and simmer for about 25 minutes while the meat is resting. The water is incredibly flavorful and ideal for potatoes, carrots, and cabbage. Toss them in butter, salt and pepper, and fresh parsley.
IMPORTANT TIP:
Corned Beef must always be cut across the grain. If you look at the beef, you can see the direction that the meat’s fibers run. To get the most tender meat, you should cut the meat in the opposite direction.
The identical ingredients can also be used to make instant pot corned beef. Just add 2 cups of water, 1 bottle of beer, and the corned beef to the Instant Pot. A 3. It will take 90 minutes to cook 5–4 pounds of corned beef (plus 15 minutes for natural release).
What To Serve with Corned Beef
The simplest side dishes are all that are necessary to complete a meal with corned beef. Serve it with mashed potatoes, colcannon, or cabbage to maintain the Irish theme.
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How to Cook Corned Beef (Stove Top)
- ▢ 1 corned beef brisket 3-4 pounds
- ▢ 2 bay leaves
- ▢ 1 bottle dark beer optional
- ▢ 1 ½ pounds baby potatoes halved
- ▢ 3 large carrots
- ▢ ½ head cabbage cut into wedges
- ▢ 3 tablespoons salted butter or to taste
- ▢ salt & pepper
- ▢ ¼ cup fresh parsley
- Place the corned beef in a large stock pot. If your corned beef came with a spice packet, add it (see note if it didn’t).
- Add a bottle of beer (optional) and enough water to completely cover the corned beef.
- Bring to a boil, reduce heat and cover. Simmer 45-50 minutes per pound (until meat is fork tender). Approximately 2 ½ -3 ½ hours.
- Remove the meat from the pot once it is tender, cover it, and reserve the cooking liquid to flavor your vegetables. Place corned beef in a 250°F oven to keep warm.
- Bring the corned beef water back up to a boil. Vegetables should be added and cooked for a further 20 to 30 minutes, or until tender.
- Place vegetables in a large bowl and toss with butter. Add parsley to taste.
- Slice the corned beef against the grain.
The estimated nutritional information is subject to change depending on the cooking techniques and ingredient brands used.
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How to cook Corned Beef Brisket
FAQ
Can you simmer corned beef too long?
Corned beef is more likely to come out tough and chewy when cooked on high for an extended period of time.
Do you simmer corned beef with lid on or off?
You will cover the pan or wrap the roast in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out because corned beef requires moist heat to cook. Check the liquid as it cooks, replenishing it if needed. You can add vegetables during the last hour of cooking.
How do you cook corned beef so it’s tender?
Boiling is the most typical way to prepare corned beef and cabbage. Place the meat in a sizable pot, cover it with beef broth or water, add a seasoning packet, and bring to a boil before simmering. Cook the meat for two to three hours, or until it is tender and cooked to your preference.
How do you tell if corned beef is cooked thoroughly?
The corned beef and vegetables should all be fork tender . For food safety, an internal temperature of at least 160°F must be reached; for maximum tenderness, an internal temperature of 190°F must be reached. and let rest for 5 – 10 minutes.