a detailed and comprehensive guide on how to make corned beef, combining various methods and tips from multiple sources.
What is Corned Beef?
Corned beef is beef that has been cured in a salt brine, often with additional spices for flavor. Its name derives from the “corns” of salt used during the curing process, not actual corn
1. Traditionally, brisket is the preferred cut used in making corned beef, which becomes tender and flavorful after a prolonged cooking process.
Ingredients
To make homemade corned beef, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Brine:
- 1 gallon water
- 2 cups kosher salt (adjust based on the type of salt used)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 5 teaspoons pink curing salt (optional, for vibrant color and flavor)
- Pickling spices (e.g., mustard seeds, allspice, coriander seeds, black peppercorns)
- Crushed garlic cloves (optional)
For Cooking:
- 1 (5-pound) beef brisket
- Vegetables (potatoes, carrots, and cabbage if desired)
How to Make Corned Beef
Step 1: Prepare the Brine
- Heat Water: In a large pot, combine the water, kosher salt, brown sugar, and pink curing salt (if using). Heat until the salt and sugar dissolve completely.
- Add Spices: Incorporate your pickling spices. Some recommended spices include mustard seeds, allspice berries, and black peppercorns7.
Step 2: Brine the Brisket
- Cool the Brine: Allow the brine to cool completely before using.
- Submerge the Brisket: Place the brisket in a large container or a zipper bag and pour the cooled brine over it, ensuring it is fully submerged. If necessary, use a weight to keep it submerged.
- Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate for 5 to 10 days. Turn the brisket once a day to ensure even curing79.
Step 3: Cook the Corned Beef
- Remove and Rinse: After brining, remove the brisket from the brine, rinse it under cold water to reduce saltiness, and pat it dry7.
- Cooking Options:
- Stovetop: Place the brisket in a large pot, cover with water, and add pickling spices. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 3-4 hours until tender6.
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F, cover the brisket in a Dutch oven with water or broth, and add your spices. Cook for about 3-4 hours10.
- Slow Cooker: Place the brisket in a slow cooker, add water or broth and spices, and cook on low for 8-10 hours9.
- Instant Pot: For faster cooking, place brisket on a rack in the Instant Pot, add broth, and cook on high pressure for about 90 minutes8.
Step 4: Serving
- Slice Across the Grain: After cooking, allow the meat to rest for about 20 minutes. Then, slice across the grain for tender pieces6.
- Serve with Vegetables: Serve with boiled potatoes, carrots, and cabbage cooked in the same pot, if desired8.
