Corned Beef Barbecue

Prep: 10 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: American

Corned Beef Barbecue is a hearty and flavorful dish, featuring tender corned beef simmered with onions and celery in a tangy barbecue sauce. Perfect for casual gatherings or game day, it offers a satisfying blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors that will please a crowd.

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Ingredients

  • 1 to 2 c. celery, chopped
  • 3 to 4 medium onions, chopped
  • 1/4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 c. ketchup
  • 1 tsp. vinegar
  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. chili powder
  • 3/4 c. hot water
  • 1 can corned beef

Instructions

  1. Sear together the celery and onions until they are not too brown.
  2. Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.
  3. Cook slowly until the mixture reaches the right consistency.
  4. Serve on hamburger buns.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or using a blend of sweet and spicy ketchup. If you prefer a bit more heat, you can substitute the chili powder with cayenne pepper. You can also add bell peppers or even diced jalapeños for extra texture and spice. Make sure the corned beef is shredded finely for better incorporation into the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this corned beef barbecue on toasted hamburger buns for a satisfying meal. Pair it with coleslaw or potato salad for a classic picnic vibe. It also goes well with pickles and chips on the side. For a fun twist, try it in a wrap or as a topping for nachos. This dish pairs beautifully with Mini Reubens for a delightful appetizer spread.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid reheating more than once for best quality.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Corned Beef Barbecue contains roughly 51 calories, with 1g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (11% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 800mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).

51 kcal 3% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 1.3g 3% DV
Total Fat 0.9g 1% DV
Carbs 11.1g 4% DV
Fiber 2.9g 10% DV
Sugar 2.2g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 799.9mg 35% DV
Potassium 211.9mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 0.1mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 74.5mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 9.8mg 11% DV
Calcium 31mg 2% DV
Iron 1.4mg 8% DV
Diet fit Keto-friendly Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat instead of corned beef?

Yes, you can substitute corned beef with shredded chicken or pulled pork for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will cook faster than beef. Ground beef can also work, but be sure to drain any excess fat before adding the sauce.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version, use textured vegetable protein (TVP) or jackfruit as a substitute for corned beef. Season it well with liquid smoke and spices to mimic the flavor of the original dish. Additionally, ensure that your Worcestershire sauce is vegetarian-friendly, as some brands contain anchovies.

What can I do if the mixture is too thick?

If the mixture becomes too thick while cooking, simply add a little more hot water or broth to achieve your desired consistency. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes. Adjust the seasoning afterwards, as additional liquid might dilute the flavors.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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