When it comes to classic sandwiches, the Reuben is one of the most beloved and iconic. With its tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, melted Swiss cheese, and creamy Thousand Island dressing, all piled high on toasted rye bread, it’s a flavor combination that’s hard to beat. But the key to a truly great Reuben is the corned beef, and cooking it in a crock pot is the perfect way to achieve tender, juicy results. In this article, we’ll explore the art of cooking corned beef in a crock pot, and provide you with a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect Reuben.
Why Cook Corned Beef in a Crock Pot?
Cooking corned beef in a crock pot is a game-changer for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy. Simply season the beef, add it to the crock pot, and let the slow cooker do the work for you. This method also ensures that the beef is cooked low and slow, which breaks down the connective tissues and results in a tender, fall-apart texture that’s perfect for slicing thin.
Another benefit of cooking corned beef in a crock pot is that it’s a great way to infuse the meat with flavor. By adding aromatics like onions, garlic, and spices to the pot, you can create a rich, savory broth that permeates the beef and adds depth to the finished dish.
Choosing the Right Cut of Corned Beef
When it comes to cooking corned beef in a crock pot, the right cut of meat can make all the difference. Look for a flat cut of corned beef, which is typically labeled as “flat cut” or “first cut.” This cut is leaner and more tender than the point cut, which can be fattier and more prone to drying out.
You can usually find flat-cut corned beef at most supermarkets, either in the meat department or the deli counter. If you can’t find it in stores, you can also try ordering it online from a butcher or meat market.
What to Look for When Buying Corned Beef
When buying corned beef, there are a few things to look for to ensure that you’re getting a high-quality product. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Look for corned beef that’s been cured with a blend of spices and seasonings, rather than just salt. This will give the meat more flavor and depth.
- Choose corned beef that’s been labeled as “uncured” or “nitrate-free.” This means that the meat hasn’t been treated with artificial preservatives, which can affect the flavor and texture.
- Opt for corned beef that’s been sliced thin, rather than thick. This will make it easier to cook and slice for your Reuben.
Cooking Corned Beef in a Crock Pot: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we’ve covered the basics of choosing the right cut of corned beef, let’s move on to the fun part: cooking it in a crock pot. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking corned beef in a crock pot:
Step 1: Season the Corned Beef
Before you add the corned beef to the crock pot, take a few minutes to season it with some aromatics and spices. You can use a store-bought seasoning blend, or create your own using a combination of spices like mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and black pepper.
Seasoning Blend Recipe
Here’s a simple seasoning blend recipe you can use to season your corned beef:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Mustard seeds | 2 tablespoons |
| Coriander seeds | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | 1 tablespoon |
| Brown sugar | 1 tablespoon |
Mix all of the ingredients together in a small bowl, then rub the seasoning blend all over the corned beef.
Step 2: Add the Corned Beef to the Crock Pot
Once the corned beef is seasoned, add it to the crock pot. You can cook the beef in a 6-quart or larger crock pot, depending on the size of your meat.
Adding Aromatics to the Crock Pot
In addition to the corned beef, you’ll also want to add some aromatics to the crock pot to create a rich, savory broth. Here are some ideas for aromatics you can use:
- Onions: Slice one or two onions and add them to the crock pot. You can also caramelize the onions before adding them to the pot for extra flavor.
- Garlic: Mince three or four cloves of garlic and add them to the crock pot.
- Carrots: Slice two or three carrots and add them to the crock pot.
- Celery: Slice two or three stalks of celery and add them to the crock pot.
Step 3: Cook the Corned Beef
Once the corned beef and aromatics are in the crock pot, add enough liquid to cover the meat. You can use beef broth, stock, or even beer to create a rich, savory broth.
Cook the corned beef on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours. You can check the beef for tenderness by inserting a fork or knife into the meat. If it’s tender and falls apart easily, it’s done.
Assembling the Perfect Reuben
Now that the corned beef is cooked, it’s time to assemble the perfect Reuben. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building the ultimate Reuben sandwich:
Step 1: Slice the Corned Beef
Once the corned beef is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, slice the beef thinly against the grain.
Tips for Slicing Corned Beef
Here are some tips for slicing corned beef:
- Use a sharp knife: A sharp knife will help you slice the beef thinly and evenly.
- Slice against the grain: Slicing against the grain will help the beef stay tender and prevent it from falling apart.
- Slice to the right thickness: Aim for slices that are about 1/8 inch thick.
Step 2: Assemble the Reuben
Now that the corned beef is sliced, it’s time to assemble the Reuben. Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need:
- Corned beef
- Sauerkraut
- Swiss cheese
- Thousand Island dressing
- Rye bread
To assemble the Reuben, simply layer the ingredients on top of each other. Start with a slice of rye bread, then add a layer of corned beef, followed by a layer of sauerkraut, a slice of Swiss cheese, and a dollop of Thousand Island dressing. Top with another slice of rye bread.
Tips for Assembling the Reuben
Here are some tips for assembling the Reuben:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The key to a great Reuben is using high-quality ingredients, including tender corned beef, tangy sauerkraut, and creamy Thousand Island dressing.
- Don’t overdo it: The Reuben is a delicate balance of flavors and textures, so don’t overdo it with too much corned beef or sauerkraut.
- Grill the bread: Grilling the bread will add a crispy texture to the Reuben and help hold everything together.
Conclusion
Cooking corned beef in a crock pot is a game-changer for anyone who loves a good Reuben. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create tender, juicy corned beef that’s perfect for slicing thin and layering on a Reuben sandwich. Whether you’re a Reuben aficionado or just looking for a new way to cook corned beef, this article has provided you with the tools and techniques you need to create the perfect Reuben. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the delicious results!
What are the benefits of cooking corned beef in a Crock Pot?
Cooking corned beef in a Crock Pot is a convenient and hands-off way to prepare this popular dish. One of the main benefits is that it allows for tender and flavorful results with minimal effort. The low heat and moisture of the Crock Pot break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and easy to slice.
Additionally, cooking corned beef in a Crock Pot is a great way to prepare a large quantity of meat with minimal mess and cleanup. The Crock Pot contains the juices and seasonings, making it easy to cook and serve the corned beef without making a mess in the kitchen.
How long does it take to cook corned beef in a Crock Pot?
The cooking time for corned beef in a Crock Pot will depend on the size and thickness of the meat, as well as the desired level of tenderness. Generally, a 2-3 pound corned beef can be cooked on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. It’s essential to check the meat periodically to ensure it reaches the desired level of tenderness.
It’s also important to note that cooking time may vary depending on the specific Crock Pot model and the altitude of your location. It’s always a good idea to consult the user manual for your Crock Pot and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What are the essential ingredients for cooking corned beef in a Crock Pot?
The essential ingredients for cooking corned beef in a Crock Pot include the corned beef itself, as well as some aromatics and seasonings. Onions, garlic, and mustard are classic additions to corned beef, and can be added to the Crock Pot along with the meat. You can also add some pickling spices, such as coriander and cloves, to give the corned beef a more authentic flavor.
In addition to these ingredients, you’ll also need some liquid to cook the corned beef. Beef broth or stock is a good option, as it adds moisture and flavor to the meat. You can also use beer or Guinness stout for a more robust flavor.
How do I slice the corned beef for a Reuben sandwich?
Slicing the corned beef thinly is essential for a great Reuben sandwich. To slice the corned beef, remove it from the Crock Pot and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, use a sharp knife to slice the meat against the grain, using a gentle sawing motion. You can slice the corned beef to your desired thickness, but thin slices are generally best for Reuben sandwiches.
It’s also a good idea to slice the corned beef when it’s still slightly warm, as this will make it easier to slice thinly and evenly. You can also use a meat slicer or deli slicer to get even, uniform slices.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking corned beef in a Crock Pot?
One common mistake to avoid when cooking corned beef in a Crock Pot is overcooking the meat. Corned beef can become dry and tough if it’s cooked for too long, so it’s essential to check the meat periodically to ensure it reaches the desired level of tenderness. Another mistake is not using enough liquid, which can cause the meat to dry out.
It’s also important to avoid overcrowding the Crock Pot, as this can prevent the meat from cooking evenly. Make sure to leave enough space between the corned beef and the sides of the Crock Pot to allow for even cooking.
Can I cook corned beef in a Crock Pot from frozen?
Yes, you can cook corned beef in a Crock Pot from frozen, but it’s essential to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Frozen corned beef will take longer to cook than thawed corned beef, so you’ll need to add a few extra hours to the cooking time. It’s also important to make sure the corned beef is fully thawed before slicing and serving.
When cooking frozen corned beef in a Crock Pot, it’s a good idea to cook it on low for 10-12 hours or on high for 6-8 hours. You can also thaw the corned beef in the refrigerator overnight before cooking it in the Crock Pot.
How do I store leftover corned beef?
Leftover corned beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To store leftover corned beef, let it cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also store leftover corned beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer.
When reheating leftover corned beef, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat leftover corned beef in the Crock Pot, oven, or microwave.