How to make corned beef in the crock pot?

How to Make Corned Beef in a Crock Pot: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Making corned beef in a crock pot is a great way to create a tender and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it.

Why Cook Corned Beef in a Crock Pot?

Crock pots are ideal for cooking corned beef because they allow for low-and-slow cooking, which tenderizes the meat and locks in its juices. Moreover, crock pots eliminate the need for constant supervision, making it perfect for busy households or when planning ahead.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole corned beef brisket (about 3-4 pounds)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon mustard powder
• 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon pickling spices (optional)
• 1 onion, peeled and sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
• 1 cup beef broth

Instructions:

To cook corned beef in a crock pot, follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Corned Beef

Trim any excess fat from the corned beef, and rinse it under cold running water. Pat the brisket dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Season the Corned Beef

In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, mustard powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle the spice blend evenly over both sides of the corned beef. If using pickling spices, add them according to the package instructions.

Step 3: Sear the Corned Beef

Heat a couple of tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the corned beef on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the corned beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 4: Cook the Onions and Garlic

Reduce the heat to medium, and add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onions are translucent and start to caramelize. Add the beef broth to the skillet and stir to deglaze.

Step 5: Assemble and Cook the Crock Pot

Place the cooked corned beef and onion-garlic mixture in a crock pot. Top with the searing juices from the skillet.

Cooking Options:

• Low Setting: Cook for 10-12 hours
• High Setting: Cook for 6-8 hours

Step 6: Check and Rest the Corned Beef

When the cooking time is complete, remove the corned beef from the crock pot and transfer it to a cutting board. Cover with foil and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing against the grain.

Additional Tips and Variations:

• To add an extra layer of flavor, you can add 1-2 cups of root vegetables (such as carrots, potatoes, and turnips) to the crock pot with the onion and garlic mixture.
• For a spicy kick, add 1-2 tablespoons of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the spice blend.
• Use leftover corned beef in sandwiches, salads, and hash browns.

Crock Pot Corned Beef Recipe Summary:

By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a delicious and tender corned beef dish that’s perfect for any meal or occasion. Happy slow cooking!