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corned beef

Homemade Corned Beef: Elevate Your St. Patrick’s Day Feast

This homemade corned beef rivals any store-bought version, making it a must-try for your St. Patrick's Day celebrations.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Curing Time 14 hours
Total Time 17 hours 50 minutes
Course dinner
Cuisine Irish
Servings 6 slices
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • - Large pot
  • Ziploc bag
  • Dutch oven

Ingredients
  

Brine Ingredients

  • 1 gallon water
  • 1 cup sugar brown sugar optional
  • 6 cloves garlic fresh
  • 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
  • 4 tablespoons pickling spice
  • 3 tablespoons pink curing salt no substitutes
  • 3 leaves bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon allspice

Brisket

  • 5 pounds brisket flat cut recommended

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • In a large pot, combine water, sugar, garlic, peppercorns, pickling spice, and pink curing salt. Bring to a boil to dissolve the sugar and salt, then cool the brine with ice water.
  • Place the brisket in a large Ziploc bag or a non-metal container. Pour the cooled brine over the brisket, ensuring it is fully submerged. Seal and refrigerate for 5-7 days, flipping it every other day for even curing.
  • Once curing is complete, remove the brisket from the brine and give it a good rinse under cold water to remove excess salt and spices.
  • In a Dutch oven, place the rinsed brisket and add fresh water, along with peppercorns, bay leaves, and allspice. Ensure the brisket is fully covered with water.
  • Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat for about 10 minutes. Then, cover and transfer the Dutch oven to a preheated oven at 300°F. Cook for approximately 3.5 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender.
  • Once cooked, remove the brisket and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice it against the grain and serve with braised cabbage and roasted potatoes.

Notes

Patience pays off; allow the corned beef to rest after cooking for moist, tender slices.
Keyword Comfort Food, corned beef, homemade, St. Patrick's Day, traditional