Every March, when St. Patrick’s Day comes around, it’s time to stock our counter with corned beef! Though it’s commonly assumed that Corned Beef is a traditional Irish dish, it actually isn’t Irish at all. In the 17^th century, the British invented the term “corned beef” to describe the salt crystals that were used to cure the meat – they were the size of corn kernels! In the 1660s, when Irish cattle were banned from being sold in England, Ireland’s low-cost salt led to them becoming known for corned beef.

So, lads and lassies, how do we cook corned beef? No matter the method you use, it’s best to cook low and slow.

Stovetop

1. Place the corned beef in a stockpot.
2. Add the spice packet and a bottle of dark beer.
3. Bring to a boil, cover, and cook on a low simmer for about 2.5-3.5 hours, or 45-50 minutes per pound.
4. When cooking is complete, remove from the liquid and let rest for 20 minutes.

Oven

1. Rub corned beef in mustard of choice.
2. Sprinkle with the seasoning packet.
3. Wrap tightly in foil and place in an ovenproof pan with high sides.
4. Bake at 350 ° for an hour per pound.
5. When cooking is complete, let rest for 10 minutes.

Slow Cooker

1. Place the corned beef fat side up in the slow cooker.
2. Season with spice packet.
3. Cover slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours
4. When cooking is complete, let rest for 15 minutes.

There you have it; you know the history and cooking methods to wow everyone the next time you make corned beef! Looking for the perfect cut of meat to make your roast? Swing by our retail store to shop our smoked, fresh, and frozen meats, including corned beef.