Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Tender brisket slowly simmered to perfection with cabbage, potatoes, and carrots makes Slow Cooker Corned Beef a must-try dish. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or simply when you crave something hearty. The unique blend of flavors from the beer-infused broth elevates this classic recipe, making it a standout choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Simply set your slow cooker and let it do the work while you enjoy your day.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of beer and pickling spices creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with vegetables like carrots and cabbage, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Perfect as a main course or served in sandwiches the next day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for gatherings, this recipe serves six, ensuring everyone gets their fill.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Slow Cooker Corned Beef, you’ll need some basic kitchen tools. These will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Slotted spoon
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: The heart of this recipe, allowing for low-and-slow cooking that ensures tender meat.
• Cutting board: A safe surface for slicing vegetables and brisket.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps in cutting through the brisket easily once it’s cooked perfectly.

Ingredients

Tender brisket slowly simmered with cabbage, potatoes, and carrots in a flavorful beer-infused broth for ultimate comfort.

Ingredients:
– 1 (3-pound) corned beef brisket
– 1 tablespoon pickling spices
– 2 teaspoons granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 3 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 (8-ounce) bottle lager or brown ale
– 6 to 8 cups water
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 pound small waxy potatoes, such as Yukon golds, halved if larger than 1-inch
– 1 small yellow onion, cut into 1-inch thick wedges
– 1 pound savoy cabbage (about 1/2 small head), cut into 1-inch wedges

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Step 1: Preheat the Slow Cooker

Set your slow cooker to the LOW setting to preheat while preparing the vegetables.

Step 2: Prepare the Brisket

Place the brisket fat-side up in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the pickling spices, sugar, and salt over the brisket. Pour in the beer, followed by enough water just to cover the brisket. Add the vinegar and stir gently to combine.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Scatter the carrots, potatoes, onions, and thyme over the brisket.

Step 4: Cook Until Tender

Cover the slow cooker and cook until the brisket and vegetables are just tender—this takes about 8 to 10 hours on LOW or 4 to 5 hours on HIGH.

Step 5: Add Cabbage

Place the cabbage on top of the brisket and cooking liquid. Continue cooking until tender for about another 45 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Use tongs to remove the brisket from the cooking liquid to a clean cutting board. Slice thinly across the grain. Use a slotted spoon to scoop up the vegetables and serve with the brisket. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Corned Beef!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Corned Beef

Serving Slow Cooker Corned Beef is all about bringing out its rich flavors and textures. This hearty dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes that complement its savory goodness.

Classic Garnishes

• Mustard – A tangy mustard adds a zesty kick that enhances the flavor.
• Horseradish – For those who like heat, horseradish provides an intense taste contrast.
• Fresh Herbs – Sprinkling fresh parsley or chives can brighten the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Pairing Suggestions

• Crusty Bread – A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth.
• Colcannon – This traditional Irish dish made from mashed potatoes and cabbage makes a delightful pairing.
• Pickles – Adding pickles on the side can introduce a crunchy texture along with a tangy flavor.

Beverage Options

• Irish Stout – A classic pairing with corned beef, an Irish stout complements the meal perfectly.
• Green Beer – For festive occasions, serve this playful drink to celebrate with style.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Corned Beef

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Corned Beef, follow these helpful tips.

• Bold seasonings: Use extra pickling spices for a more robust flavor in your cooking liquid.
• Quality meat: Choose a well-marbled brisket for tenderness and richness in taste.
• Layer vegetables wisely: Place sturdier vegetables like potatoes at the bottom for even cooking.
• Low and slow cooking: Cook on low for the best tenderness; it allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Rest before slicing: Let the brisket rest before slicing to retain its juices for maximum flavor.
• Slice against the grain: Cutting against the grain ensures each slice is tender and easy to chew.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Corned Beef

When planning your meal, consider these fantastic side dishes that pair wonderfully with Slow Cooker Corned Beef. Each brings something special to your dinner table.

1. Roasted Root Vegetables – Carrots, parsnips, and turnips roasted until caramelized provide natural sweetness that balances savory flavors.
2. Irish Soda Bread – This quick bread offers a soft texture that’s perfect for mopping up sauce while adding an authentic Irish touch.
3. Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Smooth mashed potatoes are always a comforting choice, perfect alongside corned beef.
4. Braised Greens – Collard greens or kale braised with garlic add earthy notes and nutritional benefits.
5. Beet Salad – A fresh beet salad with goat cheese gives a vibrant color contrast and a refreshing taste.
6. Apple Cabbage Slaw – Crisp apples combined with cabbage create a crunchy, sweet-tart slaw that brightens the plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Corned Beef, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can lead to less-than-perfect results.

• Using the wrong cut of meat: Always use a corned beef brisket. Other cuts may not have the same flavor or tenderness.
• Not seasoning properly: Avoid under-seasoning your dish. Be sure to sprinkle pickling spices and salt evenly on the brisket for maximum flavor.
• Skipping the browning step: While optional, browning the brisket before adding it to the slow cooker enhances its flavor. Don’t skip this step if you want a richer taste.
• Overcrowding with vegetables: Too many vegetables can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to recommended amounts for optimal tenderness and flavor.
• Not allowing enough cooking time: Rushing the cooking process can result in tough meat. Allow sufficient time for the brisket to become tender.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Corned Beef

• Wrap well in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Corned Beef

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Place the corned beef in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Slice corned beef into portions and place them on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Add sliced corned beef and a splash of broth or water to a skillet over medium heat. Cook until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of beer for Slow Cooker Corned Beef?

Yes! Any lager or brown ale will work well, but you can experiment with other types like stout for a richer flavor.

How do I know when the corned beef is done?

The corned beef is done when it is fork-tender. You can check this by inserting a fork and twisting; it should easily pull apart.

What should I serve with Slow Cooker Corned Beef?

Traditional sides include mustard, horseradish sauce, or Irish soda bread. You can also pair it with pickles or coleslaw for added crunch.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize by adding root vegetables like parsnips or turnips according to your preference.

How long does it take to cook Slow Cooker Corned Beef?

Cooking time varies based on your slow cooker settings. On low, it takes 8-10 hours; on high, about 4-5 hours.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Corned Beef is truly a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction. Its simplicity allows room for customization, so feel free to adjust spices or add extra veggies according to your taste. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings!