Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Corned Beef and Cabbage
Corned Beef and Cabbage is a timeless classic that’s perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any cozy family dinner. This slow cooker version is as simple as it gets, requiring only five ingredients. It’s a hands-off recipe that fills your home with the comforting aroma of tender corned beef and perfectly cooked vegetables.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 8-10 hours
Total Time: 8-10 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 3-4 pounds corned beef brisket (with spice packet)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 head cabbage, cut into wedges
- 4 cups water
Directions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker Base:
- Lay the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Rinse the Corned Beef:
- Rinse the corned beef brisket under cold water to remove excess salt.
- Place the brisket on top of the onions.
- Add Seasoning and Vegetables:
- Sprinkle the spice packet over the brisket.
- Arrange the carrots around the brisket and pour in the water.
- Cook the Corned Beef:
- Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the beef is tender.
- Add the Cabbage:
- About 2 hours before serving, add the cabbage wedges to the slow cooker.
- Serve:
- Remove the brisket and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve with the cooked vegetables and spoon some of the flavorful cooking liquid over the top.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the savory juices.
- For a lighter option, serve alongside a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- Add a touch of sweetness with glazed carrots or roasted root vegetables.
Variations & Tips
- Extra Flavor: Add 2-3 cloves of garlic, a bay leaf, or a teaspoon of mustard seeds to the slow cooker.
- Sweetness: Stir in a tablespoon of brown sugar or a splash of apple cider vinegar.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Complete Meal: Add baby potatoes along with the carrots for a hearty one-pot dish.
This simple yet flavorful Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage will leave your family satisfied and your kitchen smelling amazing. Whether it’s a holiday or just a cozy dinner, this recipe is always a winner!
FAQs for Slow Cooker 5-Ingredient Corned Beef and Cabbage
1. Can I use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water?
Yes, you can substitute water with chicken or vegetable broth for extra flavor. Beef broth also works well to enhance the taste of the corned beef.
2. Do I need to rinse the corned beef before cooking?
Yes, rinsing the corned beef brisket under cold water helps remove excess salt from the curing process. This step ensures the dish isn’t overly salty.
3. Can I add potatoes to this recipe?
Absolutely! Add baby potatoes or quartered Yukon Gold potatoes along with the carrots for a complete one-pot meal.
4. How can I tell when the corned beef is done?
The corned beef is done when it’s fork-tender. This typically takes 8-10 hours on low in the slow cooker.
5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time. Store the cooked corned beef and vegetables separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the slow cooker with some cooking liquid.
6. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze the cooked corned beef and vegetables in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
7. Can I cook this on high instead of low?
You can cook on high for 4-5 hours, but for the most tender corned beef, cooking on low is recommended.
8. What should I do with the leftover cooking liquid?
The cooking liquid is packed with flavor! Use it as a broth for soups or stews, or drizzle it over the corned beef and vegetables when serving.
9. What can I serve with corned beef and cabbage?
- Crusty bread
- Mashed or roasted potatoes
- Glazed carrots or parsnips
- A fresh green salad with vinaigrette
10. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Use the pressure cooker function and cook the corned beef with onions, carrots, and water for about 90 minutes, then add the cabbage and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
11. Can I add more spices if I don’t have the spice packet?
Yes, you can create your own spice blend using mustard seeds, coriander seeds, whole black peppercorns, bay leaves, and a pinch of cloves.
12. Why is my corned beef tough?
Tough corned beef is usually a result of undercooking. Continue cooking it on low until it becomes tender.
These tips and answers should help you achieve the perfect Corned Beef and Cabbage every time!