Tender Slow Cooker Corned Beef: A Comfort Food Classic

Tender Slow Cooker Corned Beef A Comfort Food Cl

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Preparation time:15 Mins

Cooking time:08 Hrs

Servings:6-8 servings

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lbs corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into large pieces
• 3 medium potatoes, quartered
• 1 small head of cabbage, cut into wedges

Instructions:

• Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess brine.
• Place onion and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Add the corned beef, spice packet, and bay leaf.
• Pour beef broth over the corned beef, ensuring it’s mostly submerged.
• Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, checking periodically for doneness.
• In the last 2 hours of cooking (1 hour on high), add carrots, potatoes, and cabbage to the slow cooker.
• Once cooked, slice the corned beef against the grain. Serve with vegetables and broth.

Nutrition Facts

Calories:350

Protein:40 g

Fat:18 g

Carbs:20 g

Fiber:4 g

Sugar:2 g

Sodium:1000 mg

Recipe Info

Category:Main Course

Cuisine:Irish

Tender Slow Cooker Corned Beef: A Comfort Food Classic

Oh my gosh, let me tell you about slow cooker corned beef ! this dish is like a warm hug on a plate.

Growing up, this was one of those go-to recipes that brought everyone to the table on a sunday. the combination of tender meat and spice really hits the spot.

Honestly, if you’ve never had corned beef, it’s high time to dive in!

Now, let’s chat about where this beauty comes from. this classic comfort food has roots in irish cuisine and has become a staple in american cooking, especially around st.

Patrick’s day. and guess what? it’s super easy to whip up! you’ll need about 15 minutes of prep time and then just set your slow cooker.

Boom! eight hours later , you’ve got dinner, or lunch, or whatever you want!

This recipe serves about 6-8 people , which makes it perfect for family gatherings or those cozy nights in. Plus, who doesn’t love leftovers? Just think about the sandwiches you can make with that leftover corned beef!

Let’s Talk Benefits!

Now, for a little health highlight: corned beef is packed with protein. It’s great for muscle repair and keeping you feeling full, plus when you add veggies like cabbage and carrots, you’re getting some solid nutrients, too!

The best time to serve this dish? any time you want to impress your friends or family! it’s perfect for st.

Paddy's celebrations, but honestly, it’s fantastic year-round. what makes this slow cooker corned beef special is that it’s effortless yet delivers big on flavor.

You can chill and relax while the slow cooker works its magic.

Oh! and if you’re into low-calorie meals , this dish can be a good option if you keep an eye on portion size.

Plus, the cabbage in this recipe adds fiber which is always a win.

Alright, are you ready to dive into the ingredients? trust me, you don’t wanna miss out on this delicious journey of making best crockpot corned beef ! just wait until you taste that tender meat alongside the perfectly cooked cabbage and potatoes.

It’ll be a game changer! let’s keep that excitement rolling.

Ingredients & Equipment

Alright, my friends! let’s dive into the goodies you’ll need for that tender slow cooker corned beef that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Trust me, this meal is easy-peasy and packed with flavor. grab your shopping list!

Main Ingredients

For the Corned Beef :

• 3-4 lbs (1.4-1.8 kg) corned beef brisket (look for a brisket that's bright pink— that’s your sweet spot!).
• 4 cups (950 ml) beef broth (go for low-sodium if you can).
• 1 large onion , quartered (the bigger, the happier!).
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better).
• 1 bay leaf (don’t skip this; it’s essential!).
• 1 tsp (5 g) black peppercorns (whole, not ground).

For the Veggies :

• 4 medium carrots, peeled and cut into big pieces (about 2 inches).
• 3 medium potatoes, quartered (I love using Yukon Gold for that buttery taste).
• 1 small head of cabbage , cut into wedges (green or purple—both work great!).

Seasoning Notes

You can't go wrong with these essential spices:

• Mix 1 tsp (5 g) paprika and 1 tsp (5 g) crushed red pepper for a bit of kick if you're feeling spicy.
• For added flavor, toss in 1 tsp (5 g) of dried thyme—trust me, it makes a difference.
• If you’re in a hurry, pre-mixed seasoning packets often come with corned beef, so you’re already ahead!

Equipment Needed

Let’s talk about the gear you’ll need, because nobody wants to be stuck without the right tools, right?

• Slow cooker (obviously, your best friend here).
• Cutting board and chef’s knife for chopping (keep it sharp!).
• Measuring cups and spoons (who doesn't love precise measuring?).
• A large spoon for the stirring action.

If you don’t have a slow cooker, here’s a cheat: you can use a heavy pot on the stove and cook on low heat. Just keep an eye on it!

Wrapping It Up

With all these ingredients prepped and your equipment out, you’re ready to cook an amazing crock pot corned beef that your family will rave about! honestly, there’s nothing like walking in after a long day and being greeted by the aroma of tender corned beef and cabbage wafting through your home.

It feels like a warm hug and brings everyone together around the table.

So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get this slow cooker corned beef party started! 🎉 Remember, good food doesn’t need to be complicated. Enjoy!

Cooking Method

Prep Steps

Alright, folks! before diving into the slow cooker corned beef , let’s set ourselves up for success with some essential prep steps.

First off, we need to get our mise en place straightened out. that fancy french term just means putting everything in its place—think peeled carrots, quartered onions, and ready-to-go spices.

Pro tip: chop those veggies ahead of time! this will save you a chunk of time when you’re on the verge of hunger.

Trust me; nothing's worse than waiting for dinner while you’re still chopping away.

And speaking of safety, remember to handle that knife like a pro. keep your fingers tucked in away from the blade.

It's the classic “never lose a limb” approach, right? safety first, friends!

Step-by-Step Process

Let’s break this down into some simple steps. This is where the magic of Crock Pot corned beef happens.

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Rinse that corned beef in cold water to get rid of excess brine. It’s kinda salty otherwise, and nobody wants a sodium bomb!

2. Layer the slow cooker:
   toss the quartered onions and minced garlic into the slow cooker. then, plop the corned beef right on top.

   Sprinkle in the spice packet and toss in a bay leaf for good measure.

3. Add the Broth:
   Pour in 4 cups of beef broth so that it covers most of the beef. It should be swimming, but not drowning.

4. Cook the corned beef:
   cover that bad boy and set your slow cooker to low for 8 hours . if you’re on a tighter schedule, 4 hours on high works too.

   Just don’t lift the lid too much—every peek costs you time!

5. Add Vegetables:
   In the last 2 hours (or 1 hour on high ), toss in the carrots, potatoes, and wedges of cabbage. They’ll soak up all those delicious flavors.

6. Check and serve:
   when time’s up, slice the corned beef against the grain—this is key for that juicy, tender bite! serve it up with a generous helping of those veggies and some of the savory broth.

Pro Tips

Now, for some of that slow cooker wisdom . First, remember to give it time . The longer it cooks, the more tender the corned beef. You’ll regret rushing it, trust me!

Also, don’t skip letting it rest for 10- 15 minutes before slicing. It'll keep the juices inside.

And a little extra flavor never hurt anyone—throw in some fresh thyme or rosemary if you like. Just don’t go overboard; we’re making comfort food here, not gourmet magic!

Lastly, common rookie mistakes? Skipping the rinse on that corned beef or opening the slow cooker every hour. Keep that lid sealed!

Remember, this corned beef and cabbage recipe isn’t just dinner; it’s a hug on a plate. So get ready to cozy up and share some love over a hearty meal!

Recipe Notes for Tender Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Serving Suggestions: Make It a Feast

Once your slow cooker corned beef is all tender and juicy, it’s time to plate it up! honestly, a simple presentation can make your meal feel fancy.

Slice the beef against the grain and serve it on a big platter, surrounded by those vibrant veggies—think colorful carrots, bright yellow potatoes, and lush green cabbage.

For an extra touch, drizzle some of that flavorful broth over the meat. you could even add a few sprigs of fresh parsley for that pop of color.

Wow, just like that, you’ve got yourself an insta-worthy dinner!

And hey, don’t forget about drinks! a chilled pint of irish stout is always a hit, especially if you’re bringing out the irish vibes.

If you want something non-alcoholic, a refreshing apple cider works wonders, cutting through the savory richness of the dish.

Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh

Okay, let’s talk storage. you can pop those leftovers in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days . make sure to seal it tightly in an airtight container, so it doesn’t dry out.

If you want to save some for later, you can freeze it! just slice the corned beef first and store it with some of the broth so it stays nice and juicy.

It’ll last in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months . when you’re ready to dig in again, just let it thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Just don’t crank the heat up too high—you don’t want to turn that delicious beef into rubber!

Variations: Get Creative

One of the coolest things about corned beef recipes slow cooker style is the room for creativity! if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding seasonal ingredients like parsnips or turnips for a fresh twist.

If you're keeping an eye on calories, go for leaner cuts of beef. you can also swap out the cabbage for some roasted brussels sprouts—i'm telling you, it's a game changer!

Nutrition Basics: Feel Good Food

Now, a bit about the nutrition—this dish isn’t just all comfort; it’s got some perks! each serving packs in about 350 calories , 40 g of protein , and a good dose of iron, which is great for energy.

Plus, you’ve got those veggies, bringing fiber into the mix. eating beef like this can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for hours.

In Conclusion: You Got This!

So there you have it! with the tips above, you’ll have the best crockpot corned beef experience ever—tender, savory, and seriously satisfying.

Whether you’re whipping it up for a family gathering or just treating yourself, this dish never disappoints. so roll up your sleeves, get that slow cooker corned beef going, and enjoy every delicious, comforting bite! you got this!