How to Make Traditional Corned Beef and Cabbage

Corned beef and cabbage is a classic dish, especially popular on St. Patrick’s Day. This hearty meal combines tender corned beef brisket with flavorful vegetables, creating a dish that is both delicious and satisfying. Whether you prepare it in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or oven, this guide will walk you through the best methods for making corned beef and cabbage.

Key Takeaways

• Corned beef and cabbage is a simple, one-pot meal perfect for any occasion.
• You can prepare it using a crock pot (slow cooker), Instant Pot, or oven.
• The key to tender corned beef is slow cooking at a low temperature.
• Adding Worcestershire sauce enhances the flavor of the broth.

Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Ingredients

• Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water to remove excess brine.
• Cut the cabbage into wedges and set aside.
• Scrub the potatoes and carrots, leaving the skin on for extra texture and nutrients.

2. Cooking Methods

Corned Beef and Cabbage in a Slow Cooker (Crock Pot)

1. Place the corned beef brisket into the slow cooker.
2. Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Sprinkle the spice packet that comes with the brisket over the meat.
4. Add potatoes and carrots around the beef.
5. Cover and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-6 hours.
6. In the last hour of cooking, add the cabbage wedges.
7. Once done, remove the brisket, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Instant Pot Corned Beef and Cabbage

1. Place the corned beef into the Instant Pot and add the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Sprinkle the spice packet over the meat.
3. Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 90 minutes.
4. Once the timer goes off, allow for a 15-minute natural release before opening the lid.
5. Remove the brisket, then add the potatoes, carrots, and cabbage.
6. Set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Quick release, then serve with sliced corned beef.

Baked Corned Beef and Cabbage in the Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Place the corned beef brisket in a roasting pan and pour in the beef broth.
3. Sprinkle the spice packet over the meat.
4. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours.
5. Add potatoes, carrots, and cabbage to the pan, cover again, and bake for another 1 hour.
6. Let the meat rest before slicing and serving.

Tips for the Best Corned Beef and Cabbage

• For extra flavor, sear the brisket before adding it to the slow cooker or oven.
• Cut against the grain when slicing the corned beef for a more tender bite.
• Leftovers can be used for sandwiches, hash, or even corned beef and cabbage soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is my corned beef tough?

Corned beef becomes tough if cooked at too high a temperature. For the best results, cook it low and slow.

2. Can I cook corned beef without the spice packet?

Yes! You can season it with bay leaves, black peppercorns, mustard seeds, and cloves as an alternative.

3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave with a bit of broth to keep it moist.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose the crock pot, Instant Pot, or oven, corned beef and cabbage is a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare. Follow this corned beef and cabbage recipe to enjoy a perfectly tender brisket with delicious, well-seasoned vegetables. Enjoy your meal!