Cooking the Perfect Corned Beef with Onion and Garlic: A Step-by-Step Guide

Corned beef is a staple dish in many cuisines, and when cooked with onion and garlic, it becomes a mouth-watering treat that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, cooking corned beef with onion and garlic is a relatively simple process that requires some basic ingredients and cooking techniques. In this article, we’ll take you through a step-by-step guide on how to cook the perfect corned beef with onion and garlic.

Understanding Corned Beef

Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand what corned beef is and how it’s made. Corned beef is a type of cured beef that’s been preserved in a solution of salt, water, and spices. The curing process involves soaking the beef in a brine solution, which helps to tenderize the meat and add flavor. Corned beef is typically made from tougher cuts of beef, such as the brisket or round, which are then sliced and packaged for distribution.

Choosing the Right Cut of Corned Beef

When it comes to choosing the right cut of corned beef, there are several options available. The most common cuts of corned beef are:

• Flat cut: This is the leanest cut of corned beef and is often preferred by those who want a lower-fat option.
• Point cut: This cut is taken from the thicker end of the brisket and is often more flavorful than the flat cut.
• Round cut: This cut is taken from the hindquarters of the cow and is often less expensive than the flat or point cut.

For this recipe, we’ll be using the flat cut of corned beef.

Preparing the Ingredients

Before we start cooking, let’s take a look at the ingredients we’ll need:

• 1 pound flat cut corned beef
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup beef broth

Peeling and Slicing the Onion

To peel and slice the onion, follow these steps:

• Peel the onion and place it on a cutting board.
• Slice the onion into thin rings, using a sharp knife.
• Separate the onion rings into individual slices.

Mincing the Garlic

To mince the garlic, follow these steps:

• Peel the garlic cloves and place them on a cutting board.
• Use a garlic press or a sharp knife to mince the garlic.
• Set the minced garlic aside.

Cooking the Corned Beef

Now that we have our ingredients prepared, let’s start cooking the corned beef.

Step 1: Browning the Corned Beef

To brown the corned beef, follow these steps:

• Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
• Add the corned beef to the pot and sear until browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Remove the corned beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sautéing the Onion and Garlic

To sauté the onion and garlic, follow these steps:

• Reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onion to the pot.
• Cook the onion until it’s translucent and starting to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Adding the Spices and Broth

To add the spices and broth, follow these steps:

• Add the brown sugar, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
• Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Add the beef broth to the pot and bring to a boil.

Step 4: Simmering the Corned Beef

To simmer the corned beef, follow these steps:

• Return the corned beef to the pot and make sure it’s covered with the onion and garlic mixture.
• Reduce the heat to low and simmer the corned beef for 2-3 hours, or until it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.

Serving the Corned Beef

Once the corned beef is cooked, it’s time to serve. Here are a few ways you can serve the corned beef:

• Slice the corned beef thinly and serve with the onion and garlic mixture spooned over the top.
• Serve the corned beef with boiled potatoes and carrots for a hearty and comforting meal.
• Use the corned beef in a Reuben sandwich, along with sauerkraut and Swiss cheese.

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to keep in mind when cooking corned beef with onion and garlic:

• Use a slow cooker: If you prefer, you can cook the corned beef in a slow cooker. Simply brown the corned beef and cook the onion and garlic in a skillet, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours.
• Add other spices: You can add other spices to the pot, such as cloves or allspice, to give the corned beef more flavor.
• Use different types of onion: You can use different types of onion, such as red or yellow onion, to give the dish more flavor and color.

By following these steps and using these ingredients, you’ll be able to create a delicious and flavorful corned beef dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to please.

What is the best cut of beef to use for corned beef?

The best cut of beef to use for corned beef is typically a tougher cut, such as the brisket or round. These cuts have a lot of connective tissue, which breaks down during the cooking process, making the meat tender and flavorful. The brisket is a popular choice for corned beef because it has a good balance of fat and lean meat, which helps to keep it moist and flavorful.

When selecting a cut of beef for corned beef, look for one that is labeled as “corned beef” or “flat cut” brisket. This will ensure that the meat is already cured with salt and spices, which is a key step in making traditional corned beef. If you can’t find a pre-cured cut of beef, you can also use a fresh cut and cure it yourself using a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices.

How do I prepare the onion and garlic for cooking with the corned beef?

To prepare the onion and garlic for cooking with the corned beef, start by peeling and chopping the onion into large chunks. You can also slice the onion thinly if you prefer a more caramelized flavor. For the garlic, peel and mince 2-3 cloves, depending on your personal taste preferences. You can also crush the garlic using a garlic press or a microplane for a more intense flavor.

Once the onion and garlic are prepared, heat a tablespoon of oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s softened and translucent, stirring occasionally. This will help to bring out the natural sweetness of the onion and add depth to the dish. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

What is the best cooking method for corned beef with onion and garlic?

The best cooking method for corned beef with onion and garlic is braising, which involves cooking the meat in liquid over low heat for a long period of time. This method helps to break down the connective tissue in the meat, making it tender and flavorful. To braise the corned beef, place it in a large Dutch oven or pot with the cooked onion and garlic, and add enough liquid to cover the meat.

You can use beef broth, stock, or even beer as the braising liquid, depending on your personal preferences. Bring the liquid to a boil, then cover the pot and transfer it to the oven or continue cooking on the stovetop over low heat. Braise the corned beef for 2-3 hours, or until it’s tender and easily shreds with a fork.

How do I know when the corned beef is cooked to perfection?

To determine if the corned beef is cooked to perfection, use a fork to test its tenderness. If the meat easily shreds with a fork, it’s done. You can also check the internal temperature of the meat, which should reach 160°F (71°C) for medium-rare and 180°F (82°C) for medium.

Another way to check the doneness of the corned beef is to look for visual cues. A perfectly cooked corned beef should be tender and easily sliceable, with a rich, caramelized crust on the outside. If the meat is still tough or chewy, continue cooking it in 30-minute increments until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.

Can I cook corned beef with onion and garlic in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook corned beef with onion and garlic in a slow cooker. In fact, a slow cooker is a great way to cook corned beef because it allows for low and slow cooking, which helps to break down the connective tissue in the meat. To cook corned beef in a slow cooker, brown the meat in a skillet with the onion and garlic, then transfer everything to the slow cooker with your choice of braising liquid.

Cook the corned beef on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. This will result in a tender and flavorful corned beef that’s perfect for slicing and serving. One of the benefits of cooking corned beef in a slow cooker is that it’s hands-off, so you can set it and forget it while you’re busy with other tasks.

How do I slice the corned beef for serving?

To slice the corned beef for serving, use a sharp knife to cut it against the grain. This means cutting the meat in the direction of the fibers, rather than across them. Cutting against the grain helps to make the meat more tender and easier to chew.

To slice the corned beef, place it on a cutting board and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will help the juices to redistribute, making the meat more flavorful and tender. Then, use a sharp knife to slice the corned beef into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. You can serve the sliced corned beef on its own, or use it in sandwiches, salads, or other dishes.

Can I store leftover corned beef in the refrigerator or freezer?

Yes, you can store leftover corned beef in the refrigerator or freezer. To store it in the refrigerator, let the corned beef cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped corned beef in a covered container and refrigerate it for up to 3-4 days.

To freeze the corned beef, let it cool to room temperature, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped corned beef in a freezer-safe bag or container and label it with the date. Frozen corned beef will keep for up to 3-4 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw the corned beef in the refrigerator or reheat it in the oven or microwave.