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Classic Tender Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe Easy Homemade Comfort Meal

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A classic slow-cooked corned beef and cabbage recipe that delivers tender meat and flavorful vegetables, perfect for cozy dinners and holiday gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 to 4 pounds corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
  • 10 cups water
  • 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 2 medium yellow onions, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 dried bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon whole peppercorns
  • 1 medium head cabbage, cut into wedges
  • 4 medium Yukon Gold or red potatoes, halved (optional)
  • Mustard or horseradish sauce for serving

Instructions

  1. Remove the corned beef brisket from its packaging and rinse briefly under cold water to wash away excess brine (optional). Pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Place the brisket fat-side up in a large stockpot or Dutch oven. Add 10 cups (2.4 liters) of water, ensuring the brisket is fully submerged. Add the spice packet or 2 bay leaves, 1 tablespoon whole peppercorns, and 4 smashed garlic cloves. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat (about 10-15 minutes).
  3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer gently for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Check occasionally to skim off foam or impurities. After 2 hours, test tenderness with a fork.
  4. About 45 minutes before the end of cooking, add carrots, onions, and potatoes to the pot. Arrange around the brisket, cover, and continue simmering.
  5. 20 minutes before finishing, add cabbage wedges to the pot. Cook until tender but still vibrant.
  6. After about 3 hours, the corned beef should be fork-tender. Remove brisket and vegetables carefully. Let meat rest for 10 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
  7. Serve sliced brisket and vegetables on a platter with some cooking liquid spooned over. Offer mustard or horseradish sauce on the side.

Notes

Rinse brisket before cooking to reduce saltiness. Simmer on low heat to keep meat tender. Let meat rest before slicing. Use cooking liquid for soups or to moisten leftovers. Add cabbage and potatoes late to avoid mushiness. For gluten-free, verify spice packet ingredients or make your own. Can substitute vegetable broth for water for richer flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: corned beef, cabbage, comfort food, slow cooker, St. Patrick's Day, easy dinner, traditional Irish recipe

Find it online: https://lucydishes.com/classic-tender-corned-beef-and-cabbage-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-meal/