Serving corned beef can be more than just slicing and eating! Let’s explore creative and tasty ways to enjoy this classic dish, from traditional sides to modern twists, ensuring a memorable meal.
Corned beef is a flavorful dish often enjoyed around St. Patrick’s Day, but it’s delicious any time of year! Knowing how to serve it right can elevate your meal from good to fantastic. Let’s dive into some simple yet effective ways to serve corned beef and make it a culinary hit.
Choosing the Right Cut: Your Foundation for Success
Before we even think about serving, let’s quickly touch on picking the right cut. The two main cuts you’ll find are brisket point cut (also called the deckle) and brisket flat cut.
* **Point Cut:** This cut is fattier and more flavorful. It’s perfect if you want a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth experience, but can be a bit harder to slice neatly.
* **Flat Cut:** This cut is leaner and easier to slice. It’s a good choice if you prefer less fat and a more uniform presentation.
Once cooked, let the corned beef rest 10-15 minutes so the juices redistribute and don’t all run out when slicing.
Classic Corned Beef and Cabbage: A Timeless Pairing
Let’s start with the most classic way of serving corned beef: with cabbage! This is a simple, hearty, and satisfying meal.
**Traditional accompaniments:**
* **Cabbage:** Quartered cabbage, cooked until tender-crisp in the same pot as the corned beef during the last hour of cooking time.
* **Potatoes:** Red potatoes or Yukon Golds are best, cooked until tender in the same pot or served mashed.
* **Carrots:** Peeled and chopped carrots, cooked alongside the cabbage and potatoes.
* **Mustard:** A dollop of horseradish mustard or Dijon mustard adds a zingy counterpoint to the richness of the meat.
Slicing for Success: Against the Grain is Key
The most important tip for serving corned beef is to slice it *against the grain*. Look closely at the meat, and you’ll see lines running in one direction. Slice perpendicular to those lines. This shortens the muscle fibers, making the meat much more tender and easier to chew.
* **Sharp Knife:** Use a sharp carving knife for clean, even slices.
* **Thin Slices:** Aim for thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. This makes the meat more tender and easier to eat.
Creative Corned Beef Serving Ideas: Beyond the Basics
Want to think outside the box? Here are some fun and tasty ways to serve corned beef:
* **Corned Beef Hash:** Dice the corned beef and potatoes and fry them together in a skillet until crispy. Top with a fried egg for a delicious breakfast or brunch.
* **Reuben Sandwiches:** A classic for a reason! Layer corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing on rye bread, then grill or panini press until warm and melty.
* **Corned Beef Tacos:** Shredded corned beef makes a surprisingly delicious taco filling. Top with your favorite taco fixings, like salsa, avocado, and cilantro.
* **Corned Beef Salad:** Dice the corned beef and mix it with mayonnaise, celery, onion, and seasonings. Serve on crackers or in lettuce cups for a light lunch.
* **Corned Beef Pizza:** Top your pizza with sliced corned beef, sauerkraut, and Swiss cheese for a unique and flavorful pizza.
Leftovers: Don’t Let Them Go to Waste
Corned beef leftovers are a gift that keeps on giving!
* **Corned Beef Hash:** (Mentioned above – worth repeating!)
* **Corned Beef Omelets:** Add diced corned beef to your omelet for a protein-packed breakfast.
* **Corned Beef Shepherd’s Pie:** Use leftover corned beef as the base for a Shepherd’s pie, topping it with mashed potatoes and baking until golden brown.
* **Corned Beef Soup:** Add diced corned beef to your favorite soup recipe for a hearty and flavorful meal.
FAQ: Your Corned Beef Questions Answered
* **How much corned beef should I serve per person?** A good rule of thumb is about 1/2 pound of cooked corned beef per person.
* **Can I make corned beef ahead of time?** Yes! Corned beef is even better the next day. Cook it a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently before serving.
* **How do I reheat corned beef without drying it out?** The best way to reheat corned beef is to wrap it tightly in foil with a little bit of broth or water and reheat it in a low oven (250°F) until warmed through. You can also reheat it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop.
* **What kind of mustard goes best with corned beef?** Spicy brown mustard, horseradish mustard, or Dijon mustard are all excellent choices.
* **Can I freeze leftover corned beef?** Yes, you can freeze leftover corned beef. Wrap it tightly in freezer-safe packaging and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Enjoying the Perfect Corned Beef Meal
Serving corned beef is all about celebrating simple flavors and good company. Whether you stick with the classic corned beef and cabbage or try one of the more creative ideas, the key is to use quality ingredients, slice the meat against the grain, and serve it with love. With these tips, you’re sure to create a memorable and delicious meal that everyone will enjoy!