Cooking corned beef can be a delightful experience, especially when using an Instant Pot or slow cooker. These modern kitchen gadgets make the process much easier and quicker compared to traditional methods. Whether you’re preparing a festive meal or simply enjoying a cozy dinner, corned beef is a versatile dish that brings warmth and flavor to the table. Here’s a friendly guide to help you cook corned beef effortlessly using an Instant Pot or slow cooker.
Contents
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3-4 lbs corned beef brisket with spice packet
- 4 cups of water
- 1 onion, quartered
- 3-4 cloves of garlic, smashed
- 1 lb carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 1 lb baby potatoes
- 1 small head of cabbage, cut into wedges
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
Cooking Corned Beef in an Instant Pot
The Instant Pot is a fantastic tool for cooking corned beef, as it significantly reduces the cooking time while keeping the meat tender and flavorful.
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Place the trivet in the bottom of the Instant Pot. This will keep the beef elevated and prevent it from sticking to the bottom.
- Add Ingredients: Place the corned beef brisket on top of the trivet. Pour in 4 cups of water, ensuring the meat is mostly submerged. Add the spice packet, onion, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Select the ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ setting and adjust the time to 90 minutes on high pressure.
- Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes. This helps keep the meat tender.
- Add Vegetables: Carefully remove the lid and add carrots, potatoes, and cabbage wedges. Seal the lid again and cook on high pressure for an additional 5 minutes.
- Final Release: Perform a quick release to let out any remaining pressure. Remove the lid carefully.
Your corned beef should be perfectly cooked and ready to serve. Slice against the grain for best results and enjoy with your favorite sides!
Using a Slow Cooker for Corned Beef
If you prefer a hands-off approach, a slow cooker is ideal for cooking corned beef while you’re busy with other tasks.
- Prepare Ingredients: Place the corned beef brisket in the slow cooker. Add water, spice packet, onion, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns.
- Add Vegetables Later: Set your slow cooker on low heat and cook for 8-10 hours. For a quicker option, use high heat for 4-5 hours. Add carrots, potatoes, and cabbage during the last 2 hours of cooking on low (or 1 hour on high).
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the beef is tender before serving. If not, continue cooking until desired tenderness is achieved.
The slow cooker method allows flavors to meld beautifully over time, resulting in a deliciously tender corned beef meal.
Tips for Perfect Corned Beef
- Slicing: Always slice corned beef against the grain for maximum tenderness.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with additional spices such as mustard seeds or cloves for a unique twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use beer instead of water?
Yes, replacing some or all of the water with beer can add a rich flavor to your corned beef.
What should I do if my corned beef is too salty?
If your corned beef turns out too salty, try soaking it in cold water for a few hours before cooking to draw out some of the salt.
Can I freeze cooked corned beef?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Corned beef is a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With these simple methods using an Instant Pot or slow cooker, you can enjoy this flavorful meal with minimal effort. Happy cooking!