Corned beef is a popular dish that has been around for centuries. It is made from beef that is salt-cured and then boiled to make it tender and flavorful. The beef is usually served with vegetables such as cabbage and potatoes, and it is often enjoyed as a main course during holidays and special occasions. In this article, we will show you how to make corned beef at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef brisket
– 1 cup Kosher salt
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons pickling spice
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
– 1/2 tablespoon coriander seeds
– 1/2 tablespoon peppercorns
– 6 bay leaves
– 10 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
– 1/2 onion, peeled and chopped
– 6 cups water
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 pound potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, mix together 6 cups of water, Kosher salt, sugar, pickling spice, paprika, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, peppercorns, bay leaves, garlic cloves, and chopped onion.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat and then reduce the heat to low.
3. Stir the mixture until the salt and sugar have completely dissolved, and then remove the pot from the heat and let it cool to room temperature.
4. Meanwhile, trim any excess fat off the beef brisket and rinse it under cold running water.
5. Once the brine has cooled to room temperature, place the beef brisket into the pot making sure it is fully submerged in the brine.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and refrigerate for at least 5 days, up to 10 days. Turn the brisket once every day to ensure even curing.
7. When the 5 days are up, remove the brisket from the brine and rinse it under cold running water.
8. In a large pot, place the corned beef and enough water to fully cover the meat. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until the beef is tender.
9. Once the beef is tender, add the chopped cabbage and potatoes to the pot and cook for another 30 minutes or until they are cooked through.
10. Remove the corned beef from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing it against the grain.
11. Serve the corned beef along with the boiled cabbage and potatoes.
FAQs:
Q: How long can I store the corned beef?
A: You can store the corned beef in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Q: Can I freeze the corned beef?
A: Yes, you can freeze the corned beef for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat in a pot of boiling water until heated through.
Q: What other vegetables can I serve with the corned beef?
A: You can serve the corned beef with a variety of vegetables such as carrots, turnips, parsnips, and onions.
Q: Can I use a slow cooker to cook the corned beef?
A: Yes, you can cook the corned beef in a slow cooker on low heat for 8 to 10 hours, or until the beef is tender.
In conclusion, making corned beef at home is a rewarding experience that can be enjoyed by the entire family. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious and flavorful meal that is perfect for holidays, special occasions, or any day of the week. So, why not give it a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills?