Authentic Corned Beef and Cabbage (The Ultimate Tender Brisket & Horseradish Sauce Recipe)
This classic Irish dish of Corned Beef and Cabbage is elevated through a slow simmer, resulting in tender, flavorful brisket served alongside perfectly cooked vegetables and a creamy horseradish sauce for the ultimate hearty meal.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs Corned Beef Brisket (Point Cut Recommended)
- 1 packet Pickling Spices
- 1 whole Yellow Onion, halved
- 4 cloves Garlic, smashed
- 3 leaves Bay Leaves
- 6 cups Water or Beef Broth
- 1 lb Potatoes, halved (Red Skinned or Yukon Gold)
- 4 large Carrots, peeled and halved
- 1 head Green Cabbage, cut into wedges
- 1 cup Sour Cream
- 1/4 cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp Prepared Horseradish
- 1 tbsp Dijon Mustard
- 1 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 pinch Salt
- 1 pinch Black Pepper
Instructions
- Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess brine. Place it in a large Dutch oven or stockpot.
- Build the aromatic broth by adding the pickling spice packet, halved onion, smashed garlic, and bay leaves. Cover the beef with water or beef broth, ensuring it is submerged by at least 2 inches.
- Bring the liquid to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and simmer the beef for 2.5 to 3 hours.
- About 30 minutes before the beef is done, add halved potatoes and carrots to the pot. When the beef is fork-tender, remove it and let it rest covered with foil.
- Increase the heat and add the cabbage wedges to the pot. Simmer for another 15–20 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
- While the vegetables cook, whisk together the sour cream, mayonnaise, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Once the cabbage is done, remove the vegetables from the pot. Slice the corned beef against the grain into 1/2-inch slices. Arrange on a platter with the vegetables, and serve with horseradish sauce on the side.
Notes
The secret to tender, flavorful corned beef is slow simmering and proper seasoning. This recipe ensures your beef comes out juicy and fork-tender, with perfectly cooked vegetables and a tangy sauce that enhances the dish.