If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that's perfect for family dinners or special occasions, corned beef and cabbage are the perfect choice. This recipe has become a beloved comfort food, combining tender, seasoned beef with perfectly cooked cabbage and vegetables to bring comfort and flavor to every bite. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make with the right tips and steps. Follow along to learn how to cook corned beef and cabbage like a pro!
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Ingredients You'll Need
To make the best corned beef and cabbage recipe, you’ll need these simple ingredients:
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3-4 pounds of corned beef brisket (with seasoning packet)
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1 head of cabbage, cut into wedges
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4-6 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
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6-8 small potatoes (Yukon Gold or red), halved
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1 onion, quartered
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3-4 cloves of garlic, peeled
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2-3 bay leaves
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Water or beef broth for cooking
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How to Cook Corned Beef and Cabbage
The recipe for corned beef and cabbage is easy to prepare. Below are the steps to cook the classic comfort food everyone loves.
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Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Before cooking, rinse the corned beef brisket thoroughly under cold water to remove excess brine. This step is crucial for balancing the saltiness of the beef. Place the beef brisket in a large pot or Dutch oven along with the seasoning packet, bay leaves, garlic, and onion. Cover with water or beef broth to keep the meat moist and flavorful during cooking.
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Step 2: Simmer the beef
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Allow the corned beef to cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the size of the brisket. You’ll know it’s ready when the meat is tender enough to easily pierce with a fork.
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Step 3: Add the vegetables
About 30-40 minutes before the beef is done, add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. These will absorb the savory flavors from the simmering liquid. Add the cabbage wedges in the final 15-20 minutes of cooking, as they cook quickly.
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Step 4: Slice and serve
Once the corned beef is done, remove it from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. To prepare the best-corned beef and cabbage recipe, thinly slice the meat against the grain for maximum tenderness. Arrange the beef and vegetables on a serving platter, and spoon some of the cooking liquid over the top for added moisture and flavor.
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By following this corned beef and cabbage recipe, you'll deliver a dish that's hearty, flavorful, and steeped in tradition. The dish perfectly balances tender beef and cooked vegetables for a meal that’s full of flavor and tradition. So what are you waiting for? Get ready and serve up the best-corned beef and cabbage plate. The dish is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression and make every bite count.