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Cozy Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage

A warm and easy comfort meal featuring tender corned beef, flavorful vegetables, and a delicious broth, perfect for busy home cooks and special occasions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Irish
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3-4 pounds corned beef brisket (with seasoning packet) Look for a quality cut.
  • 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped Choose fresh cabbage for better flavor.
  • 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks Colorful and nutritious!
  • 1.5 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into chunks (optional) Adds heartiness to the dish.
  • 1 large yellow onion, peeled and quartered Enhances the overall flavor.
  • 3 cloves garlic, smashed For aromatic depth.
  • 4 cups beef broth For a rich base.
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Balances the flavors.
  • 1-2 tablespoons pickling spices For that classic taste.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Adjust to your preference.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Peel and chop the carrots and potatoes into large chunks. Quarter the onion and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Set these aside.
  2. Remove the brisket from its packaging and rinse under cold water to wash off excess brine. Pat dry with paper towels.
  3. Place the onion, carrots, and potatoes at the bottom of the slow cooker. Lay the corned beef brisket on top, fat side up.
  4. Pour in the beef broth and apple cider vinegar. Sprinkle the pickling spices evenly over the brisket. Add smashed garlic cloves and season lightly with pepper.
Cooking
  1. Cover and set your slow cooker to low. Cook for 6-8 hours, avoiding lifting the lid during the first 4 hours.
  2. About 30 minutes before done, nestle the chopped cabbage on top around the brisket. Replace the lid and continue cooking until cabbage is tender but not mushy.
  3. Once done, carefully remove the brisket and let it rest on a cutting board for 10 minutes. Slice against the grain into 1/4-inch thick pieces.
  4. Serve with vegetables and a ladle of cooking liquid.

Notes

For the best flavor, use a high-quality corned beef brisket. Adjust the seasoning at the end; taste and add salt and pepper for a boost. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.