Slow Cooker Corned Beef: The Easiest, Most Tender Recipe Ever

Let's face it, life is busy. Between work, family, and the never-ending to-do list, finding time to cook a delicious and impressive meal can feel like a monumental task. But what if I told you there was a way to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth, fall-apart tender corned beef without spending hours slaving over a hot stove? Enter the slow cooker, my friends – a culinary hero for busy cooks everywhere.

The slow cooker's magic truly shines when tackling hearty dishes like corned beef. This isn't your typical, dry, and tough corned beef; it's a flavour-packed, tender masterpiece that practically cooks itself. Imagine throwing everything into the slow cooker in the morning and returning home to a delicious dinner, ready to serve – now that's what I call a stress-free weeknight meal!

Don't be fooled by the traditional image of corned beef as a holiday treat. It's a versatile and comforting dish that deserves a place on your dinner table year-round. Whether you're craving a casual weeknight meal or want to impress your guests with a celebratory feast, slow cooker corned beef is the perfect solution. Plus, it's amazingly versatile! You can serve it with traditional sides like cabbage and potatoes, or get creative and whip up corned beef sandwiches, tacos, or even a cheesy dip.

My Slow Cooker Corned Beef Journey

My love affair with slow cooker corned beef began a few years ago when I was searching for a way to make dinner prep easier and less stressful. I always adored corned beef, but the long oven cooking times made it feel like an all-day affair. Then, one fateful day, I stumbled upon a slow cooker recipe. It was a game-changer!

The simplicity of the recipe was incredible, and the results were nothing short of spectacular. The meat was unbelievably tender, and the flavour was simply divine. It was like magic!

Since then, slow cooker corned beef has become a regular in my house. I've even managed to convert my skeptical husband and picky teenage son, which is a feat in itself! Their love for this dish proves it's truly a crowd-pleaser.

The Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to embark on your own slow cooker corned beef journey? Let's dive in!

(Part 1) Gather Your Supplies

You'll need a handful of ingredients to get started. Don't worry, it's a simple shopping list:

• 1 corned beef brisket, about 3-4 pounds (look for a brisket with a good amount of fat for maximum flavour and tenderness)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained) – they add sweetness and a rich depth of flavour
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can beef broth – this helps create a flavorful cooking liquid for the meat
• 1 large onion, quartered – the onion adds sweetness and complexity to the broth
• 2-3 carrots, peeled and cut into 2-inch pieces – the carrots contribute a delightful sweetness and add a beautiful visual appeal
• 2-3 celery stalks, chopped – celery adds a refreshing touch and balances the richness of the dish
• 1 bay leaf – a classic for adding depth and complexity to the flavour profile
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns – a touch of spice to complement the richness of the meat
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – a subtle sweetness that enhances the natural flavour of the corned beef

(Part 2) Prepare the Corned Beef

Before throwing everything into the slow cooker, a little pre-prep for the corned beef is necessary. It's quick and easy:

1. Rinse the corned beef under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. This removes any excess salt and prepares the meat for cooking.
2. If your corned beef comes with a packet of spices, you can discard it or add it to the slow cooker. I prefer to discard it and control the seasonings myself, but feel free to add it if you prefer.

(Part 3) Assemble the Slow Cooker Magic

Now, it's time to let the slow cooker work its magic!

1. Place the corned beef in the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Surround the corned beef with the diced tomatoes, beef broth, onion, carrots, celery, bay leaf, and peppercorns. The vegetables create a flavorful broth and add a delightful visual appeal to the dish.
3. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the top of the corned beef. This adds a hint of sweetness that complements the richness of the meat.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavours to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender.

(Part 4) Patience is Key: Let it Simmer

The slow cooker is your culinary partner in this process! The key here is patience. Just let it simmer and do its thing. Resist the temptation to peek too often – the anticipation will make the delicious outcome even more rewarding!

(Part 5) Time to Shred: The Moment of Truth

After all that simmering, it's time to get your hands a little messy. We're about to shred that corned beef!

1. Carefully remove the corned beef from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
2. Let the corned beef rest for about 10 minutes to cool slightly. This makes it easier to handle and prevents the meat from falling apart too quickly.
3. Use two forks to shred the corned beef into thin strands. You can also use a couple of knives, but I find forks work best for this task.

(Part 6) The Magic of the Liquid: Saving the Broth

Don't throw away that amazing broth! It's packed with flavour and is perfect for making a rich and delicious gravy, a hearty soup, or simply adding an extra layer of flavour to your sides. I usually scoop out some of the broth to use immediately and freeze the rest for later. It's like liquid gold, waiting to be used in future culinary adventures!

(Part 7) Dinner is Served: Get Creative with the Sides

Now, the fun part – deciding what to serve with your melt-in-your-mouth corned beef. The possibilities are endless! Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

• Classic Combo: boiled potatoes, steamed cabbage, and a side of mustard. This is the classic pairing that never disappoints.
• Elevated Sides: Roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips, or a simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette. These options add a touch of sophistication and complement the richness of the corned beef.
• Get Creative: Make corned beef tacos with all the fixings, or whip up a cheesy corned beef dip for a crowd-pleasing snack. These options showcase the versatility of corned beef and allow for a playful approach to your meal.

This is where your personal preferences and creativity really shine. Don't be afraid to experiment and find the perfect combination for your taste buds!

My Favourite Corned Beef Sandwich

I'm a huge fan of a good corned beef sandwich. The combination of tender meat, tangy mustard, and crispy bread is pure heaven! My favourite way to make a corned beef sandwich is with toasted rye bread, piled high with shredded corned beef, a dollop of mustard, and a slice of Swiss cheese. It's simple, but it's pure perfection.

If you're looking for a more adventurous sandwich, try adding sauerkraut, pickles, or even some spicy peppers. It's all about finding the perfect combination for your taste buds. The best sandwich is the one you create and enjoy the most!

Tips and Tricks

Making slow cooker corned beef is a simple process, but there are a few little tricks that can help elevate your dish to new heights of deliciousness.

• Don't Overcook It: Corned beef can become tough if you cook it for too long. Stick to the recommended cooking times, and it'll be perfectly tender.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure the corned beef is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. It should reach an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit (71 degrees Celsius).
• Let it Rest: After cooking, let the corned beef rest for a few minutes before shredding it. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the meat even more tender and flavourful.
• Make Ahead: Slow cooker corned beef is a fantastic dish to make ahead. You can cook it the day before and reheat it in the slow cooker on low for a few hours. This makes it ideal for busy weeknights when time is limited.
• Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: If you're not a fan of traditional corned beef sides, get creative and try different flavour combinations. You might just discover your new favourite corned beef meal!

FAQs

Got some questions about slow cooker corned beef? I've got you covered!

What kind of corned beef should I use?

For the best results, choose a corned beef brisket that's about 3-4 pounds. It should be fresh and have a good amount of fat. The fat will melt during cooking, adding moisture and flavour to the meat.

Can I use a different type of broth?

You can definitely use a different type of broth, like chicken or vegetable broth. However, I find that beef broth works best for enhancing the corned beef flavour. If you prefer a milder flavour, chicken broth is a good alternative.

Can I make slow cooker corned beef in a smaller slow cooker?

You can use a smaller slow cooker if you're cooking a smaller corned beef brisket. Just make sure there's enough room for the brisket and all the other ingredients. If your slow cooker is too small, the corned beef may not be fully submerged in the cooking liquid, which could lead to uneven cooking.

How do I reheat leftover corned beef?

You can reheat leftover corned beef in the slow cooker on low for a few hours, or you can microwave it until it's heated through. Reheating in the slow cooker is the most gentle method and helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful.

How long can I store leftover corned beef in the refrigerator?

Leftover corned beef can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent flavour transfer.

Table: Slow Cooker corned beef recipe

Final Thoughts

I hope you give this slow cooker corned beef recipe a try. It's truly the easiest, most tender corned beef recipe ever, and it's guaranteed to impress your family and friends. So, put your feet up, relax, and let the slow cooker do its thing. You'll be enjoying a delicious, homemade meal in no time.

Happy cooking!