Corned beef hash is a classic breakfast dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight dinner. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook corned beef hash on the stove, with a few simple ingredients and some easy-to-follow steps.
What is Corned Beef Hash?
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a brief look at what corned beef hash is. Corned beef hash is a dish made from corned beef, onions, potatoes, and sometimes other ingredients like bell peppers or mushrooms. The ingredients are diced and then pan-fried until crispy and golden brown. It’s often served with eggs, toast, or as a side dish.
A Brief History of Corned Beef Hash
Corned beef hash has a long history that dates back to the 19th century. It’s believed to have originated in the United States, where corned beef was a staple in many households. The dish was created as a way to use up leftover corned beef, which was often served with boiled potatoes and cabbage. Over time, the recipe evolved to include other ingredients like onions and bell peppers.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To cook corned beef hash on the stove, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 pound corned beef, diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: bell peppers, mushrooms, or other ingredients of your choice
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Choosing the Right Corned Beef
When it comes to choosing the right corned beef for your hash, there are a few things to keep in mind. Look for a high-quality corned beef that’s been cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. You can find corned beef in most supermarkets, usually in the deli or meat department.
Types of Corned Beef
There are several types of corned beef to choose from, including:
- Flat cut: This is the most common type of corned beef, and it’s cut from the flat section of the brisket.
- Point cut: This type of corned beef is cut from the point section of the brisket, and it’s often more tender than flat cut.
- Round cut: This type of corned beef is cut from the round section of the beef, and it’s often leaner than flat cut or point cut.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Corned Beef Hash
Now that we’ve covered the ingredients and equipment needed, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for cooking corned beef hash.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
The first step in cooking corned beef hash is to prepare the ingredients. Start by dicing the corned beef, onion, and potatoes. Make sure to dice the ingredients into small, uniform pieces so that they cook evenly.
Tips for Dicing Ingredients
Here are a few tips for dicing ingredients:
- Use a sharp knife to dice the ingredients. A dull knife can cause the ingredients to tear or crush.
- Cut the ingredients into small, uniform pieces. This will help them cook evenly and prevent some pieces from burning.
- Try to dice the ingredients into pieces that are roughly the same size. This will help them cook at the same rate.
Step 2: Heat the Oil in the Skillet
Once the ingredients are prepared, it’s time to heat the oil in the skillet. Add the vegetable oil to the skillet and place it over medium-high heat. Let the oil heat for a few minutes until it’s hot and shimmering.
Tips for Heating Oil
Here are a few tips for heating oil:
- Use a high-quality vegetable oil that can handle high heat. Some good options include peanut oil or avocado oil.
- Let the oil heat for a few minutes until it’s hot and shimmering. This will help the ingredients cook evenly and prevent them from sticking to the skillet.
- Be careful not to let the oil get too hot. If the oil starts to smoke or smell bad, it’s too hot and needs to be cooled down.
Step 3: Add the Ingredients to the Skillet
Once the oil is hot, it’s time to add the ingredients to the skillet. Start by adding the diced onion and cooking until it’s translucent and starting to caramelize. Then, add the diced potatoes and cook until they’re tender and lightly browned. Finally, add the diced corned beef and cook until it’s heated through and lightly browned.
Tips for Cooking the Ingredients
Here are a few tips for cooking the ingredients:
- Cook the ingredients in the right order. Start with the onion, then add the potatoes, and finally add the corned beef.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook the ingredients in batches if necessary, to prevent them from steaming instead of browning.
- Stir the ingredients frequently to prevent them from burning or sticking to the skillet.
Step 4: Season the Hash
Once the ingredients are cooked, it’s time to season the hash. Add salt and pepper to taste, and stir to combine. You can also add other seasonings or ingredients to taste, such as chopped bell peppers or mushrooms.
Tips for Seasoning the Hash
Here are a few tips for seasoning the hash:
- Use high-quality seasonings that will add flavor to the hash. Some good options include sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Don’t over-season the hash. Start with a small amount of seasoning and add more to taste.
- Consider adding other ingredients to the hash, such as chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. These can add flavor and texture to the dish.
Serving and Enjoying Corned Beef Hash
Once the corned beef hash is cooked and seasoned, it’s time to serve and enjoy. Here are a few ideas for serving corned beef hash:
- Serve the hash with eggs and toast for a hearty breakfast.
- Serve the hash as a side dish for a weeknight dinner.
- Use the hash as a topping for a breakfast burrito or omelette.
Tips for Serving Corned Beef Hash
Here are a few tips for serving corned beef hash:
- Serve the hash hot, straight from the skillet.
- Consider adding other ingredients to the hash, such as chopped bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Use the hash as a base for other dishes, such as a breakfast burrito or omelette.
Conclusion
Cooking corned beef hash on the stove is a simple and delicious way to enjoy a classic breakfast dish. With a few simple ingredients and some easy-to-follow steps, you can create a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re serving the hash with eggs and toast or using it as a topping for a breakfast burrito, it’s sure to be a hit. So next time you’re in the mood for a comforting breakfast dish, give corned beef hash a try.
What is the best type of corned beef to use for corned beef hash?
The best type of corned beef to use for corned beef hash is a high-quality, thinly sliced corned beef. Look for a brand that is low in added preservatives and has a good balance of flavor and texture. You can also use leftover corned beef from a previous meal, such as a St. Patrick’s Day dinner.
If you’re looking for a specific type of corned beef, consider using a flat-cut corned beef. This type of corned beef is leaner and has a more uniform texture, making it ideal for dicing and cooking into a hash. Avoid using a point-cut corned beef, as it can be fattier and more difficult to cook evenly.
How do I dice the corned beef for the hash?
To dice the corned beef for the hash, start by slicing the corned beef into thin strips. Then, cut the strips into small, uniform cubes. You want the corned beef to be diced into small enough pieces that they cook quickly and evenly, but not so small that they become mushy.
A good rule of thumb is to aim for cubes that are about 1/4 inch in size. This will give you a good balance of texture and flavor in the finished hash. You can also use a food processor to chop the corned beef into small pieces, but be careful not to overprocess it.
What type of potatoes are best for corned beef hash?
The best type of potatoes for corned beef hash are high-starch potatoes, such as Russet or Idaho potatoes. These types of potatoes have a dry, fluffy texture that holds up well to cooking and helps to create a crispy exterior on the hash.
Avoid using waxy potatoes, such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they can become too soft and sticky when cooked. You want the potatoes to be cooked through but still retain some texture and structure, so high-starch potatoes are the way to go.
How do I prevent the hash from becoming too greasy?
To prevent the hash from becoming too greasy, make sure to cook the corned beef and potatoes in a skillet with a small amount of oil. You can also use a non-stick skillet to help prevent the hash from sticking and to make it easier to stir and cook.
Another tip is to not overcrowd the skillet. Cook the hash in batches if necessary, to ensure that each piece of corned beef and potato has enough room to cook evenly. This will help to prevent the hash from steaming instead of browning, which can make it greasy.
Can I add other ingredients to the corned beef hash?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the corned beef hash to give it more flavor and texture. Some popular additions include diced onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. You can also add some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, to give the hash a fresh flavor.
Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and temperature as needed to accommodate the added ingredients. You want to make sure that everything is cooked through and heated evenly, so add the ingredients in a way that makes sense for the cooking time and method.
How do I serve the corned beef hash?
The corned beef hash can be served as a side dish, similar to home fries or roasted potatoes. It’s also a popular breakfast dish, often served with eggs and toast. You can also use the hash as a topping for a breakfast burrito or as a filling for a breakfast sandwich.
Consider serving the hash with a fried egg on top, or with a side of toast or biscuits. You can also add some grated cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, to give the hash an extra burst of flavor.
Can I make the corned beef hash ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the corned beef hash ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. To refrigerate the hash, let it cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze the hash, let it cool completely and then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to serve the hash, simply reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s crispy and heated through. You can also reheat the hash in the oven, spread out in a single layer on a baking sheet, until it’s crispy and golden brown.