Irresistible Homemade Corned Beef Recipe for Comfort Food

The aroma of slow-cooked meat wafts through the air, a tantalizing promise of savory goodness. Homemade corned beef, with its tender texture and rich flavors, is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary experience that warms the soul.

Picture this: it’s a chilly Sunday afternoon, and the smell of spices fills your kitchen. You gather around the table with family, ready to savor every mouthful of homemade corned beef. It’s a heartwarming memory that lingers long after the last bite.

Sharing homemade corned beef at family dinners always elicits smiles and fond memories.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Beef Brisket: Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum flavor and tenderness when cooking.

• Salt: Use kosher salt for brining; its coarse texture helps dissolve quickly.

• Black Peppercorns: Freshly cracked pepper adds depth and warmth to your corned beef.

• Pickling Spice: A blend of spices like mustard seeds and coriander will infuse delightful flavors during cooking.

• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the overall taste and aroma of your meat.

• Water: Essential for creating the brine that will tenderize and flavor your brisket.

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

How to Make Homemade Corned Beef

Prepare the Brine: In a large pot, combine water with kosher salt and bring it to a boil. Stir until salt dissolves completely; then remove from heat.

Add Spices: Mix in black peppercorns and pickling spice while letting the brine cool down. The aroma should be fragrant yet not overwhelming.

Brine the Beef Brisket: Submerge your brisket into the cooled brine in a large container. Ensure it’s fully covered; refrigerate it for 5-7 days for optimal results.

Cook Your Corned Beef: After brining, rinse brisket under cold water; then place it in a pot filled with fresh water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.

Simmer Until Tender: Cook on low heat for 3-4 hours or until fork-tender; occasionally check water levels to keep meat submerged.

Serve and Enjoy!: Once cooked, let your corned beef rest before slicing against the grain. Serve hot or use in sandwiches; either way, it’s delicious!

Homemade corned beef brings warmth and flavor into your kitchen like nothing else can. Indulging in each juicy slice is like wrapping yourself in comfort food heaven. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a festive feast or just because you can, this recipe delivers joy with every bite!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

First, brine the beef for about 5 to 7 days to achieve maximum flavor. Once brined, simmer it gently until tender. This method ensures every bite is juicy and packed with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your spice blend according to your taste. Add some crushed garlic or a hint of smoked paprika for an exciting twist on traditional corned beef.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover homemade corned beef in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to retain moisture.

Sharing my first attempt at making homemade corned beef felt like cracking a secret family recipe. Friends raved about it, and I felt like a culinary hero that day.

FAQ

How long does it take to brine homemade corned beef?

Brining typically takes about 5 to 7 days for optimal flavor infusion.

Can I use different cuts of meat?

Yes, brisket is traditional, but other cuts can work if they’re tough enough to handle brining.

What should I serve with homemade corned beef?

Serve it with potatoes, cabbage, or on rye bread for classic sandwiches bursting with flavor.

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

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Homemade Corned Beef Recipe

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 8

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the rich flavors and tender texture of homemade corned beef, a culinary delight perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. The slow-cooked meat, brined with a blend of spices, creates a savory experience that warms the soul. Serve it hot or use it in delicious sandwiches—the possibilities are endless!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 lbs beef brisket
• 1 cup kosher salt
• 1 tbsp black peppercorns, crushed
• 2 tbsp pickling spice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups water

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Prepare the brine: Boil water and dissolve kosher salt. Let cool.
2. Add spices to the cooled brine.
3. Submerge brisket in brine, cover, and refrigerate for 5-7 days.
4. Rinse brisket under cold water; place in fresh water and simmer over medium heat.
5. Cook on low for 3-4 hours until fork-tender.
6. Let rest before slicing against the grain and serve.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 240 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 oz (113g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 1,100 mg
• Fat: 19 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg