Corned Beef Dinner

Prep: 15 min Cook: 120 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Irish

A hearty and comforting classic, corned beef dinner features tender, flavorful brisket slow-cooked with aromatic seasonings and an array of vegetables. Perfect for family gatherings or St. Patrick's Day celebrations, it offers a satisfying blend of savory, spicy, and earthy flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 lb. corned-beef brisket
  • 2 onions, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 whole cloves
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 6 small to medium potatoes, pared
  • 6 small carrots, pared
  • 6 cabbage wedges

Instructions

  1. Place corned beef in a Dutch oven and barely cover with hot water.
  2. Add sliced onions, minced garlic, cloves, and bay leaves to the pot.
  3. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour per pound of meat or until fork-tender.
  4. Add potatoes and carrots during the cooking process, about halfway through.
  5. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add cabbage wedges to the pot.
  6. Remove the meat and vegetables from the liquid and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

For a more flavorful broth, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a few tablespoons of mustard to the cooking liquid. If you're out of bay leaves, try using fresh thyme as a substitute. You can also use other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips instead of potatoes and carrots for a different taste. For a unique twist, serve with traditional Irish soda bread.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the corned beef dinner with a side of mustard or horseradish for added flavor. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some homemade coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving with crusty bread or buttered rolls to soak up the delicious broth. This dish pairs beautifully with Saffron Rice for a hearty feast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the corned beef and vegetables in a pot with a splash of broth or water, cover, and heat over low heat until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Corned Beef Dinner contains roughly 1614 calories, with 38g protein, 265g carbohydrates, and 58g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (208% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1642mg per serving (71% of the Daily Value).

1614 kcal 81% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 38.5g 77% DV
Total Fat 57.7g 74% DV
Carbs 265.4g 97% DV
Fiber 58.4g 100% DV
Sugar 48.1g 96% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1642.1mg 71% DV
Potassium 4361.6mg 93% DV
Cholesterol 32.7mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 3000mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 85.3mg 95% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 1157.6mg 89% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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 cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, while corned beef brisket is traditional, you could use a flank steak or chuck roast. However, keep in mind that cooking times may vary, and the texture will differ from the classic brisket.

How do I know when the corned beef is done cooking?

The corned beef is done when it is fork-tender and easily shreds. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 190°F to ensure it's tender.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! For a slow cooker, place the corned beef and other ingredients in the pot, cover with water, and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until tender. This method also enhances the flavor as the ingredients meld together over a longer cooking time.

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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