Top Corned Beef Brands: Which One Should You Buy?

Corned beef is a beloved staple, perfect for hearty sandwiches, classic Reuben melts, or served alongside cabbage and potatoes. But with so many options lining grocery store shelves, how do you know which corned beef to buy? In this guide, we’ll break down the types of corned beef, the best brands to look for, and tips for choosing the tastiest and highest-quality options for your kitchen.

What Is Corned Beef?

Corned beef is made from brisket that’s been cured in a seasoned brine. The “corned” part refers to the large grains of rock salt traditionally used in the curing process. The result is a savory, tender meat with a distinctive salty flavor and pink color, often enjoyed around St. Patrick’s Day but delicious year-round.

Types of Corned Beef: Canned vs. Fresh

Before picking your corned beef, it’s important to know the two main types you’ll find in stores:

• Canned Corned Beef: Shelf-stable and ready to eat, canned corned beef is convenient for quick meals and has a long shelf life. It’s typically made from finely chopped or ground beef that’s pressed into a can.
• Fresh (or Brined) Corned Beef: Usually found in the refrigerated meat section, this is a raw brisket that’s been cured but needs to be cooked before eating. It’s ideal for traditional recipes and slow-cooking methods.

Best Canned Corned Beef Brands

If you’re looking for a quick meal or want to stock your pantry, canned corned beef is a reliable choice. Here are some top brands known for their quality and flavor:

• Libby’s Corned Beef: A trusted classic in many households, Libby’s offers a familiar taste and texture. It’s widely available and budget-friendly, making it a go-to for sandwiches and hash.
• Hereford Corned Beef: Known for its solid texture and rich flavor, Hereford’s corned beef is made from premium cuts and has less fat than some competitors. It holds up well when sliced or cubed.
• Hormel Corned Beef: Hormel is another popular brand offering a consistent product that works well in various recipes. The flavor is savory but not overly salty, making it versatile for different dishes.
• Exeter Corned Beef: With a firmer texture and slightly spiced taste, Exeter is favored by those who like their corned beef with a bit of character. It’s also available in smaller cans for single servings.

Best Fresh (Brined) Corned Beef Brands

If you’re after that melt-in-your-mouth experience, fresh corned beef briskets are the way to go. They require cooking but reward you with unbeatable tenderness and flavor. Top brands include:

• Grobbels Corned Beef: Grobbels is a premium choice known for its high-quality brisket and balanced seasoning. Their products are often used by delis and restaurants for authentic flavor.
• Katz’s Delicatessen: Famous for their New York-style sandwiches, Katz’s offers mail-order corned beef that’s hand-brined and expertly seasoned. It’s a splurge, but perfect for special occasions.
• Wellshire Farms Corned Beef: Wellshire Farms provides natural, minimally processed meats with no artificial ingredients. Their corned beef is tender and flavorful, great for health-conscious shoppers.
• Store Brands (Kroger, Safeway, etc.): Many grocery chains offer their own fresh corned beef briskets around St. Patrick’s Day. These are often good value and can be quite tasty when cooked properly.

What to Look For When Buying Corned Beef

No matter which type you choose, here are some tips for picking the best corned beef:

• Check the Cut: Brisket is the traditional cut for corned beef. Look for labels specifying “flat cut” (leaner, easier to slice) or “point cut” (fattier, more flavorful).
• Inspect the Ingredients: Aim for products with simple ingredients—beef, water, salt, sugar, and spices. Avoid brands with lots of fillers or preservatives.
• Examine the Appearance: For fresh corned beef, look for even coloring and minimal gristle. In canned versions, check that the meat isn’t overly fatty or mushy.
• Consider Sodium Corned beef is naturally salty due to the curing process. If you’re watching your sodium intake, compare nutrition labels and opt for lower-sodium varieties if available.

How to Cook Corned Beef

The cooking method can make all the difference in your final dish! Here are some tips for both types:

• Canned Corned Beef: This type is already cooked—just slice or cube it straight from the can. It’s delicious fried up in a skillet with potatoes and onions for classic corned beef hash or layered on rye bread with Swiss cheese and sauerkraut.
• Fresh Corned Beef Brisket: Needs to be simmered gently in water (or broth) with spices for several hours until fork-tender. Slow cookers or Instant Pots work great too! Add cabbage, carrots, and potatoes during the last hour of cooking for a complete meal.

Corned Beef FAQs

Tips for Serving Corned Beef

• Slicing: Always slice against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Add Veggies: Pair with cabbage, potatoes, carrots, or even roasted Brussels sprouts for a classic meal.
• Leftovers: Use leftover corned beef in sandwiches, omelets, quesadillas, or homemade hash browns.

The Bottom Line: Which Corned Beef Should You Buy?

If you want convenience and long shelf life, go with canned brands like Libby’s or Hereford. For that classic homemade taste and texture, fresh brined brisket from Grobbels or your local store brand will give you delicious results after slow cooking. No matter what you pick, following our tips will help you enjoy the best corned beef every time!

Final Thoughts

Corned beef brings comfort and flavor to many meals. Whether you prefer canned or fresh, choosing a reputable brand and paying attention to cut and ingredients will ensure your dish turns out delicious every time. Happy cooking!