Slow Cooker Corned Beef: A Family Favorite Made Easy

Hello there, wonderful parents! Are you searching for a no-fuss, absolutely delicious meal that your whole family will adore? Well, you’re in luck! Today, I’m beyond excited to share with you a classic recipe that’s as easy as pie – Slow Cooker Corned Beef. Trust me, your slow cooker is about to become your new best friend. ?

Why Cook Corned Beef in a Slow Cooker?

Before we dive into the mouth-watering details, let’s chat about why cooking corned beef in a slow cooker is such a fantastic idea for any busy parent. First off, slow cookers allow for that delightful “set it and forget it” method. This means you can pop in the ingredients in the morning and by dinnertime, voilà – a scrumptious meal awaits. It’s also a healthier option as it typically requires less oil or fat, and the long, low-temperature cooking process does wonders for the meat’s tenderness. By the end, the corned beef is so juicy and flavorful, it practically melts in your mouth!

Ingredients: What You’ll Need

• 3-4 lb corned beef brisket
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 large onion, peeled and cut into quarters
• 5 medium carrots, peeled and cut into chunks (optional)
• 2 ribs of celery, cut into chunks (optional)
• 1 small head of cabbage, cut into wedges (traditionally added in the last hour of cooking)
• Spices: Included pickling spice packet or your own blend (usually consisting of mustard seeds, bay leaves, whole peppercorns, coriander seeds, etc.)
• 4-5 cups of water or enough to cover the brisket

This magical mix of ingredients will transform inside your slow cooker, creating a corned beef so tasty, your kids might just ask for seconds (or thirds – we don’t judge here)! Plus, the veggies cook alongside the beef, soaking up all those delectable flavors, making them super enticing, even to the pickiest of eaters.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Alrighty, let’s roll up our sleeves and jump right into making this culinary masterpiece. And by ‘roll up our sleeves’, I mean, let’s take a whole 10 minutes to prep because that’s all the time you’ll need. Easy-peasy, right? Here’s what you need to do:

1. Prepare the Corned Beef

Open your corned beef package, give it a little rinse under cold water, and place it snugly into the bottom of your slow cooker. If it came with a spice packet, sprinkle that on top of the meat now. If not, it’s time to add your own blend of spices for that signature corned beef flavor.

2. Add Aromatics and Veggies

Toss in the quartered onions and minced garlic for that flavor foundation. If you’re adding carrots and celery, now’s the time to introduce them to the party as well. The wonderful thing about this recipe is that it’s flexible, so feel free to adjust the types and amounts of veggies to your family’s taste.

3. Pour in the Water

Carefully pour enough water into the slow cooker to just cover the brisket. This is going to create a delicious broth as everything cooks together and will keep your corned beef wonderfully moist.

4. Cooking Time

Secure the lid, set your slow cooker on low, and let the magic happen for about 8-10 hours. Imagine that tantalizing aroma filling your home all day, promising a fabulous meal to come. And if you’re short on time, you can set it on high for 4-5 hours instead.

That’s just the beginning of crafting the perfect slow cooker corned beef feast for your family. Stay tuned for more exciting steps and tips on how to round out this meal with the perfect side dishes and how to store leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any)! Serving up a nutritious, satisfying dinner has never been so simple – or so delicious. Stick with me, and you’ll be enjoying tender, fall-apart corned beef that not only dazzles your palate but also gives you more precious time with your loved ones.

5 Things Parents Should Know When Prepping Slow Cooker Corned Beef

As we continue on our culinary adventure, let’s highlight five key things to keep in mind when you’re getting ready to cook your corned beef in the slow cooker:

Choosing the Right Cut of Meat

When selecting corned beef at the store, you’ll often come across two main cuts: the point cut and the flat cut. The flat cut is leaner and more uniform in shape, which makes for easier slicing. The point cut is fattier but also more flavorful. Depending on your family’s preference for texture and taste, pick the cut that suits you best. Remember, the slow cooker is pretty forgiving, so even a leaner cut will come out tender.

Rinsing the Brisket

Another tip for the prep stage is to rinse your corned beef brisket thoroughly. Corned beef is cured in brine, which can make it quite salty. Rinsing it before cooking helps to remove some of the excess saltiness, ensuring the final dish is flavorful but not overwhelmingly so.

Layering is Key

Always start with your meat at the bottom of the cooker, as it requires the most direct heat. Place your vegetables on top so they can steam nicely as the meat cooks. And don’t forget to add the cabbage in during the last hour – you want it cooked through but not mushy.

Patience Pays Off

It’s tempting to lift the lid and peek at your delicious meal, but resist the urge! Every time the lid comes off, you lose heat and moisture. This can significantly increase the cooking time and reduce the juiciness of the brisket. Just set your cooker and be patient; great food takes time.

Stock Up on Spices

If your corned beef doesn’t come with a spice packet, or if you prefer more control over the flavor profile, you can create your own spice blend. A mix of mustard seeds, bay leaves, whole peppercorns, and coriander seeds is traditional, but feel free to experiment and make it your own.

Getting the Most Out of Your Meal

Now, as the slow cooker does its job, let’s chat about how to optimise your corned beef meal. Not only is this recipe a hearty meal on its own, but it also offers fantastic opportunities for leftovers – from corned beef sandwiches to hash, the possibilities are endless.

Perfect Pairings: Side Dishes for Corned Beef

While your corned beef is becoming tender and juicy, think about the sides. A traditional Irish side such as colcannon (a yummy mix of mashed potatoes and cabbage) or some rye bread to soak up the broth can be delightful. Alternatively, for a healthier twist, opt for a crisp green salad or some steamed green beans.

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, which can be a rarity given how delicious this dish is, they can easily be stored. Simply place the leftover corned beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently to retain the moisture.

Tailoring the Recipe to Dietary Needs

It’s super easy to adjust this recipe for various dietary needs. For a lower sodium version, use less of the pickling spices and consider preparing your own brine. For those watching their carb intake, simply serve the corned beef with a larger portion of non-starchy veggies like cabbage and skip the potatoes and carrots.

Ready to become the hero of your dinner table? With these tips and your trusty slow cooker, you’re all set to dish out a cozy and filling meal that saves you time and pleases everyone. Enjoy the delicious simplicity of slow-cooked corned beef, and embrace the extra moments with your family. Happy cooking!