Believe it or not corned beef and cabbage is about as American as Apple pie. In Ireland, pork was an inexpensive option farmers could afford. In the US, however, beef was the cheaper option and pork was a bit pricey. Corned beef was found to be a great substitute for the traditional dish, Irish Bacon. Irish or not, corned beef is delicious.

Every year when my family enjoys our annual corned beef and cabbage dinner for St. Paddy’s day I think to myself, why do we only have this once a year. It’s always delicious and so easy to make. This year, I vow to have it at least half a dozen times.

When making corned beef and cabbage some people tell you to rinse the corned beef before you cover it with water ( if braising), or that roasting it in the oven is the best method.  I’ve tried them all and this is by far the most tasty way I have found.  It’s also the easiest.  How do ya like that?

Corned Beef and Cabbage

3-4 lb corned beef brisket with spice packet
2 bay leaves
10-15 small red potatoes unpeeled
5 carrots peeled and coarsely chopped
1 medium head of cabbage cut into wedges
Horseradish sauce

Place corned beef in large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water. Add the spice packet that came with the corned beef.  You will not need any extra salt, but I like 1 or 2 extra bay leaves. Cover pot and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer skimming off any foam that rises to the top. Simmer approximately 50 minutes per pound or until tender. About 45 minutes before the end of cooking time, add the potatoes and carrots.  About 15 minutes before the end of cooking time add the cabbage.  Try to get the veggies down in the broth so they can soak up all that yummy flavor.

Everyone will tell you to cut it across the grain to serve.  My husband likes having it shredded into big chunks with the grain. I like both ways.  Just eat it how you like it.  In my book, it must have horseradish sauce on the side. And of course, a slightly chilled (about 60ºF) Guinness for the adults, and homemade root beer for the kids and non-drinkers.

Bain taitneamh as do bhéile = Enjoy your meal