Slow Cooker Stout Corned Beef and Vegetables: A Flavorful Feast
Corned beef and cabbage is a classic St. Patrick’s Day dish, but why limit yourself to enjoying it only once a year? This slow cooker stout corned beef and vegetables recipe elevates the traditional fare with the rich, malty depth of stout beer. The result is a tender, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
This recipe is incredibly easy to make, thanks to the slow cooker. Simply throw all the ingredients in, set it, and forget it. The low and slow cooking process tenderizes the corned beef, infuses it with flavor, and creates a delicious broth that’s perfect for serving with the vegetables.
## Why Stout? Why Slow Cooker?
**Stout:** Stout beer, with its dark color and roasted malt flavors, adds a unique complexity to the corned beef. The beer’s subtle bitterness balances the saltiness of the beef, creating a harmonious and delicious flavor profile. While Guinness is a popular choice, other stouts like Irish dry stouts, oatmeal stouts, or even milk stouts can be used, depending on your preference. Experiment to find your favorite!
**Slow Cooker:** The slow cooker is the ideal tool for cooking corned beef. The long, slow cooking process breaks down the tough fibers of the meat, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It also allows the flavors of the stout, spices, and vegetables to meld together beautifully. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient – just set it and forget it!
## Ingredients:
* **Corned Beef Brisket (3-4 pounds):** Look for a corned beef brisket with good marbling. This will ensure a more tender and flavorful result. The brisket usually comes with a spice packet, which you will use in the recipe.
* **Stout Beer (1 bottle or can, 12 ounces):** Guinness is a classic choice, but any stout you enjoy will work well.
* **Beef Broth (2 cups):** Adds extra moisture and depth of flavor.
* **Yellow Onions (2 large, chopped):** Provides a savory base for the dish.
* **Carrots (1 pound, peeled and chopped):** Adds sweetness and color.
* **Potatoes (2 pounds, peeled and quartered):** Yukon Gold or red potatoes are great choices. They hold their shape well during cooking.
* **Cabbage (1 medium head, cored and chopped):** Adds a slightly bitter and earthy flavor that complements the corned beef.
* **Garlic (4 cloves, minced):** Adds a pungent and aromatic flavor.
* **Bay Leaves (2):** Contributes a subtle, earthy aroma.
* **Dried Thyme (1 teaspoon):** Adds a savory and herbaceous note.
* **Black Peppercorns (1 teaspoon):** Adds a touch of spice.
* **Spice Packet (included with corned beef):** This usually contains a mix of spices like coriander, mustard seeds, and peppercorns. If your corned beef doesn’t come with a spice packet, you can use a pickling spice blend.
* **Optional: Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tablespoon):** Adds a touch of acidity to balance the flavors.
* **Optional: Brown Sugar (1 tablespoon):** Adds a touch of sweetness to enhance the flavor.
* **Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish):** Adds a pop of color and freshness.
## Equipment:
* **Slow Cooker (6-quart or larger):** Ensure your slow cooker is large enough to accommodate the corned beef and vegetables.
* **Cutting Board:** For chopping vegetables.
* **Knife:** For chopping vegetables.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For accurate measurements.
* **Tongs:** For handling the corned beef.
## Instructions:
**Step 1: Prepare the Corned Beef**
* Remove the corned beef brisket from its packaging and rinse it under cold water. Pat it dry with paper towels.
* Place the corned beef in the slow cooker.
**Step 2: Add the Aromatics and Spices**
* Sprinkle the spice packet (or pickling spice blend) over the corned beef.
* Add the minced garlic, bay leaves, dried thyme, and black peppercorns to the slow cooker.
**Step 3: Add the Liquids**
* Pour the stout beer and beef broth over the corned beef. The liquid should cover at least two-thirds of the brisket. If needed, add a little more beef broth to ensure adequate coverage.
* *Optional:* Add the apple cider vinegar and brown sugar for extra flavor.
**Step 4: Add the Vegetables**
* Add the chopped onions, carrots, and potatoes to the slow cooker, arranging them around the corned beef.
* Place the chopped cabbage on top of the other vegetables.
**Step 5: Slow Cook**
* Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. The corned beef is done when it is fork-tender and easily pulls apart.
* *Note:* Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker. Check the corned beef periodically to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
**Step 6: Rest and Slice**
* Once the corned beef is cooked, carefully remove it from the slow cooker using tongs and place it on a cutting board. Let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result.
* Slice the corned beef against the grain into thin slices. This will make it easier to chew and more tender.
**Step 7: Serve**
* Serve the sliced corned beef with the cooked vegetables and a generous ladle of the broth from the slow cooker.
* Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
* Serve with your favorite sides, such as Irish soda bread, horseradish sauce, or mustard.
## Tips for Success:
* **Don’t skip the resting period:** Allowing the corned beef to rest before slicing is crucial for a tender and juicy result.
* **Slice against the grain:** This will make the corned beef easier to chew and more tender.
* **Use a good quality stout:** The flavor of the stout will significantly impact the final dish, so choose one that you enjoy drinking.
* **Adjust the vegetables to your liking:** Feel free to add other vegetables, such as parsnips, turnips, or rutabaga.
* **Skim off excess fat:** If there is a lot of fat on top of the broth after cooking, you can skim it off with a spoon before serving.
* **Salt:** Taste the broth before serving. Corned beef is salty. You might not need to add additional salt.
## Variations:
* **Spicy Corned Beef:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeno to the slow cooker for a spicy kick.
* **Sweet and Tangy Corned Beef:** Add a few tablespoons of brown sugar and apple cider vinegar to the slow cooker for a sweet and tangy flavor.
* **Corned Beef and Sauerkraut:** Add a jar of sauerkraut to the slow cooker for a tangy and flavorful twist.
* **Instant Pot Version:** You can adapt this recipe for the Instant Pot. Cook on high pressure for 75-90 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 15 minutes.
## Serving Suggestions:
* **Classic Corned Beef and Cabbage Dinner:** Serve with boiled potatoes, carrots, and cabbage.
* **Corned Beef Sandwiches:** Use the sliced corned beef to make delicious sandwiches with rye bread, sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and Russian dressing.
* **Corned Beef Hash:** Dice the leftover corned beef and potatoes and fry them in a pan with onions and peppers for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
* **Corned Beef Tacos:** Shred the corned beef and use it as a filling for tacos with your favorite toppings.
* **Corned Beef Salad:** Dice the corned beef and add it to a salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a vinaigrette dressing.
## Storing Leftovers:
* Store leftover corned beef and vegetables in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* You can also freeze leftover corned beef for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
## Reheating Instructions:
* **Microwave:** Reheat the corned beef and vegetables in the microwave on medium power until heated through.
* **Stovetop:** Reheat the corned beef and vegetables in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through. Add a little broth or water to prevent them from drying out.
* **Oven:** Reheat the corned beef and vegetables in a baking dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
* Calories: 400-500
* Protein: 30-40 grams
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Carbohydrates: 20-30 grams
*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*
## Conclusion:
This slow cooker stout corned beef and vegetables recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a classic Irish-American dish. The stout beer adds a rich, malty flavor that complements the salty corned beef perfectly. The slow cooker makes the meat incredibly tender and the vegetables flavorful. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to please.
Enjoy this hearty and flavorful Slow Cooker Stout Corned Beef and Vegetables! It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion.