Corned Beef With Cabbage

Cook: 150 min Serves: 8 Cuisine: American

A hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender corned beef simmered with vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and onions, perfect for a comforting family meal or special occasion.

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Ingredients

  • 5 lb. corned beef
  • cold water
  • 1/2 clove garlic
  • 2 peppercorns
  • 3 carrots, peeled and quartered
  • 3 onions, peeled
  • 1 head cabbage, cut in wedges

Instructions

  1. Wash the brine from the corned beef using 3 to 4 waters.
  2. Place the corned beef in a large pot and cover with cold water.
  3. Add garlic and peppercorns to the pot and bring to a simmer.
  4. Simmer until the meat is tender, about 1 1/2 hours for young beef or up to 5 hours for older beef.
  5. Add carrots and onions during the last hour of cooking.
  6. Add the cabbage wedges in the last 20 minutes of cooking.
  7. Serve the corned beef on a platter with the vegetables arranged around it.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, choose a high-quality corned beef with good marbling. If you prefer a milder flavor, soak the corned beef in cold water for several hours or overnight before cooking. You can substitute the cabbage with kale or collard greens for a different taste. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a bay leaf during simmering. This dish pairs well with hearty breads.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the corned beef on a large platter, surrounded by the cooked vegetables for a beautiful presentation. This dish pairs beautifully with hearty breads or rolls and a tangy mustard for dipping. For added flavor, serve with horseradish sauce. You could also prepare a side of mashed potatoes or a light salad to balance the richness of the meal.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover corned beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the meat and place it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist, or microwave in short intervals, covered, to prevent drying out. For longer storage, freeze the cooked corned beef in portions for up to 2 months.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Corned Beef With Cabbage contains roughly 314 calories, with 11g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (144% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value), and potassium (37% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1022mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).

314 kcal 16% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11g 22% DV
Total Fat 8.8g 11% DV
Carbs 51.9g 19% DV
Fiber 9.6g 34% DV
Sugar 13.6g 27% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1021.5mg 44% DV
Potassium 1718.9mg 37% DV
Cholesterol 2.8mg 1% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1300.2mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 76.7mg 85% DV
Calcium 345.1mg 27% DV
Iron 4.9mg 27% DV
Diet fit High-fiber 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

How do I know when the corned beef is done?

Corned beef is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F to 205°F, which ensures it's tender and easy to slice. You can test with a meat thermometer or use a fork to check if it pulls apart easily. Cooking time varies based on the size and age of the meat, so keep an eye on it.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can definitely make corned beef with cabbage in a slow cooker. Place the rinsed corned beef, vegetables, and enough water to cover them in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, adding the cabbage in the last hour of cooking for the best texture.

What can I do with leftover corned beef?

Leftover corned beef can be used in various dishes. Try making a classic Reuben sandwich with rye bread, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese. You can also chop the beef and add it to scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast or use it in soups or casseroles. Explore more American recipes for creative ideas!

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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