Easy Traditional Irish Corned Beef – Tender, Savory & Hearty
Traditional Irish-style corned beef simmered low and slow with pickling spices, carrots, potatoes, and cabbage — an easy, hearty dish perfect for holidays or cozy meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours (stovetop) or 8 hours (slow cooker)
- Total Time: Varies by method
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
-
3–4 lb corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
-
6 cups water or low-sodium beef broth
-
1 large onion, quartered
-
3 cloves garlic, smashed
-
4 carrots, peeled and halved
-
1½ lbs Yukon Gold or red potatoes, halved
-
½ head green cabbage, cut into wedges
-
1 tbsp pickling spice (if not included)
-
1 tbsp butter (optional, for vegetables)
Instructions
-
Rinse corned beef and pat dry. Place in pot or slow cooker with onion and garlic.
-
Add spice packet and pour in water or broth to cover the meat.
-
Cover and simmer:
-
Stovetop: 3 hours
-
Slow Cooker: LOW 8–9 hours or HIGH 5–6 hours
-
-
Add carrots and potatoes 1 hour before done. Add cabbage 30–40 minutes before done.
-
Remove beef and let rest. Slice against the grain.
-
Serve with vegetables and a ladle of broth or buttered cabbage.
Notes
Flat cut brisket slices best; point cut is juicier. Add 1 cup of beer for deeper flavor. Leftovers make great hash or sandwiches.