Popular corn beef recipes and benefits

Corned beef is a salt-cured beef with a pink colour that is often associated with Irish cuisine. It is a popular dish around the world and is enjoyed for its rich flavour and tender texture. In this blog post, we will be discussing all you need to know about this nice source of protein and popular recipes you need to try. 

What is corned beef?

Corned beef is a salt-cured beef product, typically made from the brisket cut. The term "corned" refers to the large-grained salt (often referred to as "corns" of salt) used in curing meats.

History of Corned Beef

Corned beef has a long history, dating back to ancient times when people would preserve meat with salt to prevent spoilage. The practice of corning beef became popular in Ireland, where cattle were abundant and the meat was used as a staple food. Irish immigrants later brought the tradition of corning beef to the United States, where it became a popular ingredient in dishes such as corned beef and cabbage and Reuben sandwiches.

Corned beef has been enjoyed for centuries, with references to its use dating back to the 16th century. It was a popular dish among Irish immigrants in the United States and has since become a staple in American cuisine, especially in South America.

Types of Corned Beef

There are two main types of corned beef: whole brisket and round. Brisket is the most common type and is known for its rich flavour and tender texture. Round, on the other hand, is leaner and has a more firm texture.

Corned beef can be found in a variety of forms, including sliced deli meat and canned corned beef. The type of corned beef you choose will depend on your intended use and personal preferences. Whole briskets are often sold in grocery stores and are ideal for slow cooking or boiling. Sliced deli meat is convenient for quick, ready-to-eat sandwiches, while canned corned beef is a pantry staple that can be used in a variety of recipes.

Preparation of Corned Beef

The process of making corned beef involves rubbing the beef with a mixture of salt, spices, and sometimes sugar, and then allowing it to cure for several days to several weeks. The curing process infuses the beef with flavour and helps to preserve it. After the curing process, the beef is typically boiled or slow-cooked until tender and then served as a main dish or used in recipes.

Corned beef is typically prepared by simmering the meat in a mixture of boiling water, spices, and seasonings. This allows the meat to absorb the flavours and become tender. The most common spices used in the preparation of corned beef include bay leaves, cloves, mustard seeds, and peppercorns.

Popular Uses of Corned Beef

Corned beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is often enjoyed as a main course, but it can also be used in soups, garlic stews, sandwiches with vegetables and fried eggs, and even as a topping for pizza.

Health Benefits of Corned Beef

Despite its rich flavour and reputation as a fatty and unhealthy food, corned beef can actually be a nutritious part of a balanced diet. It is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. It is also relatively low in fat and calories, making it a great choice for those who are watching their weight.

It also contains small amounts of other essential vitamins and minerals, including zinc and potassium. However, it's important to keep in mind that corned beef can be high in sodium, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Using Corned Beef in Recipes

Corned beef is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of recipes, including corned beef and cabbage, Reuben sandwiches, corned beef hash, and corned beef pie. It's also a popular ingredient in traditional Irish dishes such as boxty and colcannon.

1. Corned Beef and Cabbage

This classic Irish dish consists of boiled corned beef, served with boiled cabbage, potatoes, and carrots. The beef is typically cooked with a mixture of spices, giving it a rich, flavourful taste.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pound corned beef brisket
• 8 cups of water
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons of whole peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 head of cabbage, cut into wedges
• 8 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced into 2-inch pieces

Instructions:

Rinse the corned beef brisket and place it in a large pot. Add enough water to cover the beef. Add the garlic, onion, bay leaves, peppercorns, and thyme to the pot and stir to combine. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let the corned beef cook for 2 to 3 hours, or until it is tender.

Add the cabbage wedges, potatoes, and carrots to the pot and stir to combine. Increase the heat to bring the water back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let the vegetables cook for 20-30 minutes, or until they are tender.

Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for 5 minutes. Serve the corned beef and vegetables hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious and traditional Irish-style corned beef and cabbage meal

2. Reuben Sandwich

The Reuben sandwich is a classic deli sandwich made with corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing, served on rye bread. The combination of salty corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy dressing makes for a delicious and satisfying sandwich.

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pound corned beef brisket
• 8 cups of water
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 2 tablespoons of whole peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• 1 head of cabbage, cut into wedges
• 8 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced into 2-inch pieces

Instructions:

• 4 slices of rye bread
• 8 ounces of corned beef, sliced
• 1 cup of sauerkraut, drained
• 4 slices of Swiss cheese
• 4 tablespoons of Thousand Island dressing
• Butter or margarine for spreading

Instructions:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Spread butter or margarine on one side of each slice of bread. On two of the slices, layer the corned beef, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Thousand Island dressing. Top with the remaining two slices of bread, buttered side facing out.

Place the sandwiches in the heated skillet and cook for 2 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Reuben sandwich!

Corned beef is delicious and nutritious food that has been enjoyed for centuries. Whether you are a fan of traditional Irish cuisine or just looking for a tasty and satisfying meal, corned beef is a great choice. However, the way you prefer it, this versatile dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.

You can get your corned beef in small quantities and larger quantities (as a business) from us through our online website or at our physical store in Reading, UK.