Salt beef, also known as corned beef, is a flavorful and tender meat dish that’s perfect for hearty meals. Preparing it at home allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your liking. Here is how to cook salt beef.
Ingredients
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) salt beef brisket
- 2 large onions, peeled and halved
- 3 carrots, peeled and roughly chopped
- 2–3 bay leaves
- 6–8 whole black peppercorns
- 2–3 cloves
- 2–3 garlic cloves, peeled (optional)
- Water
Instructions
- Rinse the Salt Beef
- Rinse the salt beef brisket thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. If the beef is heavily salted, soak it in cold water for several hours or overnight, changing the water periodically.
- Prepare the Cooking Pot
- Place the rinsed salt beef in a large pot. Add enough water to fully submerge the beef.
- Add Aromatics
- Add onions, carrots, bay leaves, peppercorns, cloves, and garlic to the pot. These aromatics will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
- Bring to a Boil
- Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the water to a boil. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
- Simmer Gently
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the beef to simmer gently for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
- Check the Meat
- Occasionally check the beef to ensure it remains submerged in water. Add more hot water if necessary during cooking.
- Rest the Beef
- Once the beef is fully cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for 10–15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
- Slice and Serve
- Slice the salt beef thinly against the grain for the most tender results. Serve it hot with boiled potatoes, steamed cabbage, and a tangy mustard sauce, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or bagels.
Tips
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, add additional spices such as mustard seeds or coriander seeds to the cooking water.
- Save the cooking liquid as a flavorful broth base for soups or stews.
- For a crisp texture, you can pan-sear the cooked slices briefly before serving.
Also Read: How To Cook Calamari