Slow Cooker Corned Beef Feast

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort meal that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor, look no further than this Slow Cooker Corned Beef Feast. Perfectly tender corned beef accompanies buttery cabbage, sweet carrots, and hearty baby potatoes. This dish is a celebration of classic Irish cuisine that can easily be prepared in a slow cooker. Just set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with friends and family.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Corned Beef Feast is not just about convenience; it’s also about the irresistible flavors that come together during the slow cooking process. The corned beef becomes incredibly tender as it cooks, soaking up the aromatic spices and herbs. The cabbage, carrots, and potatoes absorb the rich broth, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal. Plus, with a prep time of only 15 minutes, it’s a recipe that everyone can manage, making it ideal for both novice and seasoned cooks.

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is essential for the success of your meal. Here’s what you will need:

• 3.5 lb corned beef brisket with spice packet
• 1 onion, quartered
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 garlic cloves, crushed
• 2.3 carrots, chopped
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
• 2 cups beef or chicken broth
• 1 small cabbage, cut into wedges
• Garlic Herb Butter:
• 5 tbsp salted butter
• 12 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

Step 1: Start by preparing your slow cooker. Place the quartered onion in the bottom of the slow cooker. This provides a flavorful base for the corned beef.

Step 2: Next, add the corned beef brisket on top of the onions, fat-side up. This orientation allows the fat to baste the meat as it cooks, aiding in flavor and tenderness.

Step 3: Open the spice packet that comes with the corned beef and sprinkle it evenly over the meat. This contains the essential seasonings that will flavor your dish beautifully.

Step 4: Add the bay leaves and crushed garlic cloves around the beef. These aromatics enhance the overall profile of the dish, making it even more delicious.

Step 5: Now, it’s time to add the vegetables. Place the chopped carrots and halved baby potatoes around the beef in the slow cooker.

Step 6: Pour in the beef or chicken broth over the entire mixture. This liquid will help cook the beef and provide a base for the tender vegetables as well.

Step 7: Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for about 6 hours. At this point, the beef will be partially tender.

Step 8: After 6 hours, carefully add the cabbage wedges to the pot and cover again. Cook for an additional 2-3 hours on LOW until the beef is fully tender and the vegetables have absorbed all the delicious flavors.

Step 9: Once cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting period ensures the juices redistribute within the meat, making it juicier.

Step 10: In a small saucepan, melt the butter and mix in the minced garlic and chopped parsley. Drizzle this garlic herb butter over the sliced beef and vegetables just before serving for an extra burst of flavor.

Pro Tips for Making the Slow Cooker Corned Beef Feast

• For best results, choose a well-marbled corned beef brisket as the fat will keep the meat moist during the long cooking process.
• Experiment with adding your favorite spices or herbs to the broth for a personalized touch.
• Let the leftovers cool completely before storing them in an airtight container to enjoy another day.
• Pair this dish with a hearty Irish bread for an authentic experience.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the liquid from the slow cooker at the end of cooking and reduce it on the stovetop until thickened.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?

Yes, while corned beef brisket is traditional, you can experiment with other cuts like a round roast. Just adjust cooking times accordingly as different cuts may require more or less time to become tender.

What can I substitute for the cabbage?

If you’re not a fan of cabbage, you can replace it with other hearty vegetables such as kale, brussels sprouts, or even green beans, which will also complement the dish well.

How do I store leftovers from this meal?

Allow leftovers to cool before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I prepare this meal in advance?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients the day before. Simply chop the vegetables and place them with the brisket and broth in the slow cooker insert, and store it in the refrigerator. Just plug in the slow cooker in the morning, and you’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you by dinner time!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is gluten-free as long as your corned beef and broth are free from gluten. Always read labels to ensure that no gluten-containing ingredients are included.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Corned Beef Feast is the perfect answer to your weeknight dinner dilemmas. With its rich flavors, nutritious vegetables, and the ease of a slow cooker, you’ll appreciate how effortless it is to create a memorable meal. Enjoy the cozy scents wafting through your home as this delightful comfort dish cooks, and embrace the simple pleasures of good food shared with family and friends.