Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! Let me tell you about one of my favorite go-to recipes: **Crispy Slow Cooker Corned Beef**. Now, I absolutely adore corned beef, but what makes this dish even more special is the crispy finish I achieve by popping it in the oven after slow cooking. Talk about a culinary hug!
I remember the very first time I made this recipe. It was one of those cozy Sunday afternoons, and I craved something hearty. Little did I know, my kitchen would soon smell like an Irish pub, and I’d end up devouring half the brisket before serving! That’s the beauty of cooking; it transforms a mere moment into a delightful memory. Whether you’re preparing for St. Patrick’s Day or just need comfort food any day of the week, this dish is bound to be a hit.
What’s in Crispy Slow Cooker Corned Beef?
– Corned Beef Brisket: The star of the show! I recommend using a 3 to 4-pound brisket for just the right amount of tenderness and flavor. Look for a well-marinated cut when shopping.
– Black Peppercorns: They pack a punch and add depth. I love using whole peppercorns because it allows you to control the coarseness.
– Mustard Seeds: These add a delightful tangy zing that elevates the flavor. Whole mustard seeds are preferred for an extra pop!
– Coriander Seeds: With their slightly sweet and aromatic notes, they round up the spice mix beautifully.
– Garlic Powder: Because garlic makes EVERYTHING better! Who doesn’t love that savory flavor?
– Onion: Using a quartered onion adds more sweetness and depth to the broth. It really blends into the meat and creates an amazing aroma.
– Beef Broth: This juicy goodness forms the base of our cooking liquid. I usually opt for low-sodium broth to control the seasoning.
– Bay Leaves: Just a couple will add that aromatic touch which ties all the flavors nicely together.
– Potatoes and Carrots (optional): These are great additions for those who want a complete meal in one pot. They soak up all that corned beef flavor!
– Salt and Olive Oil: Just a pinch of salt to taste and olive oil for that lovely sear.
Is Crispy Slow Cooker Corned Beef Good for You?
You’re going to love knowing that corned beef has quite a few health benefits!
Corned Beef Brisket: It’s a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. Just keep in mind it’s a bit high in sodium due to the brining process, so if you’re watching your salt intake, be sure to balance this meal out with some fresh veggies!
Potaotes: If you choose to add them, they are a wonderful source of potassium and fiber.
Carrots: These sweet veggies not only add delicious flavor but also provide beta-carotene, which is excellent for your eyesight!
Just remember, while this dish is hearty and comforting, moderation is key (but let’s be real, who can resist that crispy edge?!).
Ingredients
– 3 to 4 pounds corned beef brisket
– 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
– 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
– 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 onion, quartered
– 3 cups beef broth
– 2 to 3 bay leaves
– 4 large potatoes, quartered (optional)
– 4 carrots, cut into large pieces (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Olive oil for searing
(This recipe serves about 6 people, but don’t be surprised if you want to keep some for yourself!)
How to Make Crispy Slow Cooker Corned Beef?
1. Begin by rinsing the corned beef brisket under cold water to remove excess salt and brine. Pat it dry with paper towels. You want that meat ready to soak up all those amazing flavors!
2. In a small bowl, combine the black peppercorns, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, and garlic powder. Rub this spice mixture all over the meat. Get in there, it’s gonna be delicious!
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little olive oil. Sear the corned beef brisket for about 4-5 minutes on each side until it gets that gorgeous crispy crust. Remove from heat.
4. In the slow cooker, place the quartered onion and lay the seared corned beef brisket on top.
5. Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaves. If using, add the potatoes and carrots around the brisket.
6. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender. Keep in mind—in the slow cooker world, patience is a virtue!
7. Once cooked, carefully remove the corned beef from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This is the hardest part, but I promise you that juiciness is worth the wait!
8. For extra crispiness, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C), transfer the sliced corned beef to a baking sheet, and pop it in the oven for about 10-15 minutes until the edges are crispy. Trust me, you’ll want to do this step!
9. Serve the crispy corned beef with the cooked vegetables and some of the fabulous cooking liquid as a sauce. Enjoy every last bite!
Serving Tips for the Ultimate Comfort Dish!
First off, don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up that delicious broth! If you’re feeling fancy, a spicy mustard on the side can amp up the flavors even more. And if you like a little kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños to the veggies in the slow cooker!
Now that I’ve got your taste buds tingling, I encourage you to give this Crispy Slow Cooker Corned Beef a whirl. I promise it will bring a smile to your face and warmth to your soul. I’d love to hear how yours turns out and any fun twists you throw into the mix! Happy cooking!
