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corn beef crock pot

Tender Corned Beef Crock Pot: Comfort Food Done Right

This tender corned beef crock pot recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and is packed with flavor, making it an ideal comfort food.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Cabbage Cooking Time 1 hour
Total Time 9 hours 15 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine Irish
Servings 6 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • - Slow cooker

Ingredients
  

Vegetables

  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Aromatic base; substitute with shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 3 large Carrots Add sweetness and color; can be replaced with parsnips.
  • 3 ribs Celery Provides depth of flavor; optional.
  • 1 pound Baby Potatoes Hearty texture; use small potatoes.
  • 1 head Green Cabbage Complements the dish with crunch; substitute with savoy cabbage.

Corned Beef

  • 2-3 pounds Corned Beef Brisket Main protein; brisket is preferred.
  • 2 tablespoons Kosher Salt Enhances flavor; can replace with sea salt.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Adds heat; use white pepper for a milder option.
  • 2 tablespoons Store-Bought Pickling Spice Provides traditional flavor.

Flavor Boosters

  • 3 sprigs Thyme Earthy flavor; dried thyme may substitute.
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves Optional but recommended for authentic taste.

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Chop the Vegetables: Start by chopping your medium yellow onion, large carrots, celery ribs, and baby potatoes. Place them in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  • Add the Corned Beef: Layer the corned beef brisket on top of the chopped vegetables. Sprinkle kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and store-bought pickling spice over the meat for seasoning.
  • Incorporate Herbs: Add thyme sprigs and bay leaves for an aromatic flavor boost. Pour enough water into the cooker until the meat is nearly submerged.
  • Set the Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for about 4½ hours until the beef is very tender.
  • Add Cabbage: In the last 45 minutes to 1 hour of cooking, toss in the chopped head of green cabbage.
  • Slice and Serve: Carefully transfer the cooked beef to a cutting board and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice against the grain and serve.

Notes

Don't forget to explore delicious ways to use leftover corned beef such as tacos or sandwiches.
Keyword comfort food, corned beef, Crock Pot, easy recipe, slow cooker, St. Patrick's Day