Corned Beef and Cabbage

When you think of comfort food that warms your soul faster than a cozy blanket on a frigid day, corned beef and cabbage takes the crown. Imagine tender slices of juicy corned beef teamed up with soft, buttery cabbage that practically melts in your mouth—this dish is like a warm hug from grandma on a chilly Sunday afternoon. It’s the kind of meal that beckons you home after a long day or makes you feel like royalty at your dinner table.

Now picture this: it’s St. Patrick’s Day, the scent of savory spices fills the air, and your friends gather around as laughter echoes through your kitchen. You unveil this colorful feast—corned beef nestled beside vibrant green cabbage—and suddenly everyone feels festive. Trust me; this is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings people together while tickling those taste buds.

Every time I whip up a batch of corned beef and cabbage, my family turns into food critics—each bite met with nods of approval and happy sighs.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Brisket Corned Beef: Choose high-quality brisket for optimal tenderness; look for marbling as it enhances flavor during cooking.
• Green Cabbage: Fresh heads of green cabbage are best; avoid any discoloration or wilting for maximum crunch.
• Carrots: Select vibrant orange carrots; they add sweetness to balance the savory meat beautifully.
• Potatoes: Use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture; they hold up well during cooking without falling apart.
• Onion: A yellow onion will add depth to the broth; chop it finely for even distribution throughout the dish.
• Spices (Pickling Spice): Use a blend containing mustard seeds and peppercorns; it infuses the meat with irresistible flavor.
• Beef Broth or Water: Opt for low-sodium varieties to control saltiness while ensuring rich flavor during simmering.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare yourself for some culinary magic as we dive into creating this comforting meal.

Prep Your Ingredients: Begin by rinsing the corned beef under cold water to remove excess salt. Chop your vegetables into large chunks—this helps them cook evenly.

Add Everything to the Pot: Place the brisket in a large pot or slow cooker. Add chopped onions, carrots, potatoes, and sprinkle pickling spice over everything generously.

Cover with Liquid: Pour enough beef broth or water over the ingredients until they are just submerged—this ensures everything cooks perfectly without turning mushy.

Bring to a Boil then Simmer: Bring the pot to a rolling boil over medium-high heat before reducing it down to low heat. Cover and let it simmer for about 3-4 hours until the meat is fork-tender.

Add Cabbage Last: After 3 hours have passed, add wedges of cabbage into the pot. Cook for an additional 30 minutes until they’re tender yet still retain some crunch.

Serve & Enjoy.: Slice the corned beef against the grain into thick pieces and serve alongside vegetables with ladles of broth poured over them—it’s pure joy on a plate.

This hearty meal pairs beautifully with mustard or horseradish sauce on the side if you want an extra kick.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by simmering the corned beef for about 3 hours until tender. While that’s happening, prepare the cabbage and veggies for a harmonious finish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix in potatoes or carrots for extra heartiness. You can also spice things up with mustard seeds or garlic for added flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat on low heat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

There’s nothing quite like the moment when friends gather around the table, eyes wide with anticipation as that glorious pot of corned beef and cabbage takes center stage. I still remember my first attempt; I was so nervous. But seeing everyone enjoy it made all the effort worthwhile.

FAQ

What cut of meat is best for corned beef?

The brisket cut is traditional for making flavorful corned beef.

Can I make corned beef and cabbage in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can slow-cook it on low for about 8 hours for tender results.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to corned beef?

Try using jackfruit or seitan seasoned with similar spices for a plant-based version.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Corned Beef and Cabbage

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Corned Beef and Cabbage is a classic Irish dish featuring tender brisket and vibrant veggies, perfect for hearty family meals or festive gatherings.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 lbs Brisket Corned Beef
• 1 head Green Cabbage, cut into wedges
• 4 Carrots, chopped
• 4 Yukon Gold Potatoes, quartered
• 1 Yellow Onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons Pickling Spice
• 4 cups Low-Sodium Beef Broth or Water

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Instructions

1. Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess salt.
2. In a large pot or slow cooker, combine the brisket, chopped onions, carrots, and potatoes. Sprinkle with pickling spice.
3. Pour enough beef broth or water over the ingredients until just submerged.
4. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 3-4 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
5. Add cabbage wedges to the pot and cook for an additional 30 minutes until tender but still crisp.
6. Slice the corned beef against the grain and serve with vegetables and broth.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Boiling/Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Irish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg