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Homemade Corned Beef

Homemade Corned Beef

This Homemade Corned Beef recipe delivers tender, flavorful beef brisket cured with a rich blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection. Easy to follow and customizable, it allows you to control the saltiness and spice level while saving money compared to store-bought versions. Perfect for hearty dinners or festive occasions, this classic comfort food provides melt-in-your-mouth texture and bold seasonings that everyone will love.

  • Total Time: 5 to 7 days brining plus 3 to 4 hours cooking
  • Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 pounds Beef Brisket
  • 1 cup Coarse Salt
  • 1/2 cup Brown Sugar
  • 4 tablespoons Pickling Spices (mustard seeds, coriander, bay leaves, peppercorns blend)
  • 4 cloves Garlic, crushed
  • 1 medium Onion, sliced
  • 2 quarts Water
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon Pink Curing Salt (use as directed)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Brine: Combine water, coarse salt, brown sugar, pickling spices, garlic, and onion in a large pot and bring to a simmer until the salt and sugar dissolve fully. Remove from heat and let the brine cool completely before using.
  2. Brine the Beef: Place the beef brisket in a large, clean container or zip-top bag and pour the cooled brine over it. Cover and refrigerate for 5 to 7 days, turning occasionally to ensure even flavor absorption.
  3. Rinse and Prepare for Cooking: Once brining is complete, remove the beef, rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt, and pat dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for balanced seasoning.
  4. Cook the Corned Beef: Put the beef in a large pot with fresh water, add extra pickling spices if you like, and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook gently for 3 to 4 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shredded.
  5. Rest and Slice: Let the cooked beef rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing against the grain to retain moisture and maximize tenderness.

Notes

  • Start with Quality Beef: A well-marbled brisket ensures juiciness and depth of flavor.
  • Don’t Rush the Brining: The longer your beef brines, the more flavorful and tender it becomes.
  • Use Fresh Spices: Pickling spices lose potency over time, so fresh spices guarantee vibrant taste.
  • Cook Low and Slow: Avoid boiling, which can toughen the meat; a gentle simmer works best.
  • Rest Before Slicing: This keeps juices locked in for a moist eat every time.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 to 4 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Brining, Simmering
  • Cuisine: American, Irish-American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 oz cooked beef
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 6 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3 g
  • Fiber: 0 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Keywords: corned beef, homemade corned beef, beef brisket, slow brine corned beef, comfort food, traditional corned beef