how long to cook corned beef in crockpot on high

Corned beef is a flavorful dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is typically made with beef brisket that has been cured with a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. While traditionally cooked on a stovetop, many people prefer using a crockpot to cook their corned beef. In this article, we will take a detailed look at cooking corned beef in a crockpot on high.

Why use a crockpot to cook corned beef?

Crockpots are an ideal kitchen appliance for busy individuals who cannot always be present to monitor their cooking. The slow, gentle cooking of a crockpot allows the meat to become tender and flavorful, resulting in mouth-watering, fall-apart meat. Using a crockpot also saves time as you do not have to constantly check on the cooking progress, freeing up your time for other activities.

In addition, using a crockpot to cook corned beef allows for the flavors to fully develop and meld together. The low and slow cooking process allows the spices and seasonings to infuse into the meat, creating a delicious and well-rounded flavor profile. Plus, the convenience of being able to set it and forget it makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

Ingredients needed for cooking corned beef in a crockpot

The following are the ingredients you will need to cook corned beef in a crockpot:

• 3-4 pounds of corned beef brisket
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, chopped into large chunks
• 4 medium-sized carrots, chopped into large chunks
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon of mustard seeds
• 1 tablespoon of whole peppercorns
• 4 cups of water
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking corned beef in a crockpot is a great way to get a tender and flavorful meal with minimal effort. To start, place the corned beef brisket in the crockpot and add the sliced onion, minced garlic, chopped potatoes, and chopped carrots. Then, add the bay leaves, mustard seeds, whole peppercorns, and water. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. Once the cooking time is up, remove the corned beef from the crockpot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving with the vegetables and cooking liquid. Enjoy!

Preparing the corned beef for the crockpot

Before cooking the corned beef, it is important to rinse it thoroughly to remove any excess salt and seasoning. Once rinsed, place the brisket in the crockpot and add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Add the chopped potatoes and carrots to the crockpot as well.

For added flavor, you can also add a tablespoon of whole grain mustard and a tablespoon of brown sugar to the crockpot. This will give the corned beef a sweet and tangy taste. Make sure to mix the mustard and brown sugar with a little bit of water before adding it to the crockpot. Cook the corned beef on low heat for 8-10 hours or until it is tender and falls apart easily with a fork. Serve with steamed cabbage and enjoy!

Tips for choosing the right cut of corned beef

When selecting a cut of corned beef for your crockpot, it is important to choose a beef brisket that is well-marbled with fat. This will ensure that the meat remains moist and tender throughout the cooking process. Additionally, look for a corned beef brisket that is not too thick, as it may take longer to cook in a crockpot.

Another important factor to consider when choosing a cut of corned beef is the grade of the meat. USDA Prime grade corned beef is the highest quality and will have the most marbling, making it the most flavorful and tender. However, it can be more expensive than lower grades. If you are on a budget, USDA Choice grade corned beef is a good option, as it still has some marbling and flavor, but may require a longer cooking time to become tender.

Understanding cooking times and temperature settings on a crockpot

The recommended cooking time for corned beef in a crockpot is around 8 hours on low heat. However, if you are in a hurry, you can also cook it on the high heat setting for approximately 4-5 hours. It is important to note that every crockpot is different, so be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and adjust cooking times accordingly.

Step-by-step guide to cooking corned beef in a crockpot on high

Follow these simple steps to cook corned beef in a crockpot on high:

1. Place the corned beef brisket in the crockpot and add onions and garlic.
2. Add the chopped potatoes and carrots to the crockpot.
3. Add bay leaves, mustard seeds, peppercorns, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Pour 4 cups of water over the ingredients in the crockpot.
5. Cover the crockpot with the lid and set it to cook on high for 4-5 hours or until the meat is fully cooked.
6. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the corned beef brisket from the crockpot and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

How to tell when your corned beef is done cooking

You can tell when your corned beef is done cooking when the meat is tender and easily falls apart with a fork. The internal temperature should reach 160 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption. Alternatively, you can use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature has reached a safe level.

Alternative ways to cook corned beef besides a crockpot

While cooking corned beef in a crockpot is a popular method, there are other ways to prepare this classic dish. Other cooking methods include stovetop cooking or oven roasting. Both these methods involve more hands-on cooking, but result in a deliciously moist and tender corned beef.

Delicious side dishes to serve with your cooked corned beef

Corned beef is often served with traditional Irish side dishes such as cabbage, boiled potatoes, and carrots. Other popular sides dishes include roasted vegetables such as Brussel sprouts or root vegetables like parsnips and turnips. A fresh green salad or coleslaw also pairs well with corned beef.

Conclusion

Crockpot cooking is an easy, convenient, and delicious way to prepare corned beef. With these tips and instructions, you can easily prepare tender and flavorful corned beef perfect for any occasion. Remember to choose the right cut of beef, use the right seasoning, and follow cooking times accordingly for a delicious meal everyone will enjoy.