Baked Corned Beef: A Deliciously Simple Recipe
This recipe for baked corned beef is perfect for a St. Patrick's Day feast or any occasion where you want a tender, flavorful, and impressive main course. Forget boiling – baking your corned beef yields incredibly moist and succulent results! This method also minimizes the need for constant monitoring.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 3-4 pound corned beef brisket: Choose a good quality brisket for the best flavor. Look for one with a nice layer of fat.
- 1 large onion, quartered: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped: Contributes natural sweetness and beautiful color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Provides a subtle earthy flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed: A pungent addition for aromatic depth.
- 2 cups beef broth: Helps create a moist cooking environment and adds flavor.
- 1 cup water: Adds more moisture.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Balances the saltiness of the corned beef and adds a touch of caramel notes.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: A subtle tang that complements the richness of the beef.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: A complex umami flavor enhancer.
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns: Adds a subtle spice.
- 1 bay leaf: A classic pairing for corned beef, enhancing the overall savory profile.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh and vibrant touch to your finished dish.
Step-by-Step Baking Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This low and slow cooking method ensures the corned beef remains incredibly tender.
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Prepare the vegetables: Roughly chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Smashed garlic cloves are great too!
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Combine ingredients in a roasting pan: Place the corned beef brisket in a large roasting pan. Around the brisket, arrange the prepared vegetables, garlic cloves, peppercorns, and bay leaf.
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Create the braising liquid: In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, water, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour this mixture over the corned beef and vegetables in the roasting pan.
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Bake the corned beef: Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 3-3.5 hours, or until the corned beef is fork-tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your brisket.
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Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach at least 190°F (88°C). If it's not tender enough, continue baking uncovered for another 30 minutes, or until desired tenderness is achieved.
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Rest and serve: Once cooked, remove the corned beef from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious baked corned beef with classic sides like:
- Boiled potatoes: A perfect pairing to absorb the flavorful juices.
- Cabbage: Adds a nice crunch and complements the rich corned beef.
- Horseradish sauce: Provides a spicy kick that contrasts the savory beef.
- Mustard: A classic accompaniment to corned beef.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook: Overcooked corned beef can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked to the perfect temperature.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar, mustard, or Worcestershire sauce to suit your preferences.
- Use leftover juices for gravy: The pan juices make a delicious gravy! Simply strain them, skim off excess fat, and thicken with a cornstarch slurry.
Enjoy your incredibly flavorful and tender baked corned beef! This recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Remember to share your culinary creations using #BakedCornedBeefRecipe!
