5 Simple Corned Beef Recipes for St. Patrick's Day

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore five delightful ways to prepare and enjoy corned beef for St. Patrick's Day. Each recipe will be simple, ensuring that even beginners in the kitchen can whip up something extraordinary for the holiday. From traditional dishes to inventive spins, these recipes are sure to impress your family and friends.

Recipe 1: Traditional Corned Beef and Cabbage

Start with a classic that many associate with St. Patrick’s Day.

Ingredients:

• 4 lbs corned beef brisket with spice packet
• 10 whole cloves
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 6 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 6 potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 head of cabbage, cored and cut into wedges

Instructions:

1. Rinse the brisket under cold water to remove excess brine. Place it in a large pot.
2. Add enough water to cover the meat, then sprinkle in the contents of the spice packet, cloves, and bay leaves.
3. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, skimming off any foam.
4. Add the onions, carrots, and potatoes, cooking for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Place the cabbage on top and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes.
6. Serve hot with a side of mustard or horseradish sauce.

☘️ Note: This dish pairs wonderfully with a Guinness or an Irish cider for an authentic St. Patrick's Day experience.

Recipe 2: Corned Beef Hash

Use leftover corned beef to make this comforting hash dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups diced cooked corned beef
• 2 tablespoons butter or oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3-4 potatoes, cooked and diced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon thyme (optional)
• Eggs, for frying

Instructions:

1. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté the onion until it starts to caramelize.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook until they begin to brown.
3. Mix in the corned beef, stirring until heated through. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
4. Press the mixture into the skillet and let it cook without stirring to form a crispy base.
5. Serve hash with eggs fried to your liking on top.

Recipe 3: Corned Beef Reuben Sandwich

Turn your corned beef into a gourmet sandwich experience.

Ingredients:

• 8 slices rye bread
• Butter, for grilling
• ¹⁄₂ cup Thousand Island dressing
• 8 slices Swiss cheese
• 1 lb corned beef, thinly sliced
• 8 oz sauerkraut, drained

Instructions:

1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
2. On the unbuttered side, spread a generous layer of Thousand Island dressing, then layer Swiss cheese, corned beef, sauerkraut, and another slice of cheese.
3. Top with another slice of bread, butter-side up.
4. Grill on a skillet until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve hot with pickles or fries.

🍔 Note: Consider using marble rye for a visual twist to the classic sandwich.

Recipe 4: Corned Beef and Cheese Pastries

Transform corned beef into an elegant appetizer or party snack.

Ingredients:

• 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup corned beef, finely chopped
• ¹⁄₂ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon mustard
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Roll out the puff pastry on a floured surface. Cut into squares or rectangles.
2. Mix corned beef, cheese, and mustard in a bowl.
3. Place a spoonful of the mixture on half of each piece of pastry, then fold over and seal the edges.
4. Brush with egg wash and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Recipe 5: Slow Cooker Corned Beef Tacos

For a fusion dish with a festive flair, slow cook your corned beef into tacos.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs corned beef brisket
• 1 can of beer or beef broth
• Spice packet or 1 tbsp pickling spice
• Tortillas
• Toppings: shredded cabbage, pickled onions, avocado, lime wedges, and hot sauce

Instructions:

1. Place the brisket and spices in a slow cooker. Add beer or broth until the meat is covered.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
3. Shred the beef and warm tortillas. Assemble tacos with desired toppings.

Each of these recipes not only brings the vibrant taste of corned beef to your St. Patrick's Day celebration but also offers a range of culinary experiences, from traditional Irish dishes to modern takes on this festive favorite. Whether you're hosting a large party or enjoying a quiet day with family, these dishes will ensure your celebration is memorable and filled with the spirit of St. Patrick's Day.