If you are a meat lover, you are probably familiar with corned beef brisket. This classic dish is typically associated with St. Patrick’s Day, but it’s delicious any time of the year. Making your own homemade version of corned beef brisket may sound intimidating, but with the right guidance and a bit of patience, it’s actually quite easy! In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of making a homemade corned beef brisket, so you can impress your family and friends with your culinary skills. From selecting the right cut of meat to brining and cooking, you will have all the information you need to create a mouthwatering corned beef brisket that everyone will love. So, let’s get started!

How to Make Homemade Corned Beef Brisket: Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Corned beef is a beloved comfort food that is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you’re craving a hearty meal. While many people purchase corned beef from stores, making it from scratch is a rewarding experience that lets you customize the flavors to your liking. In this article, we’ll show you how to make homemade corned beef brisket step by step. From making the pickling spice mixture to brining the brisket, we’ll guide you through the entire process.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the steps to make homemade corned beef brisket, let’s go over the list of ingredients you’ll need:

Pickling Spice

• 1 tablespoon allspice berries
• 1 tablespoon mustard seed
• 1 tablespoon coriander seed
• 1 tablespoon juniper berries
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon cloves
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon celery seed

Brine

• 1 gallon water
• 1 1/2 cups kosher salt
• 2/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons pink curing salt
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons pickling spice

Brisket

• 3-pound beef brisket (flat section)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Make Pickling Spice Mixture

To create the perfect pickling spice mixture, combine all of the spices listed under the Pickling Spice ingredients in a small bowl. Some spices, such as black peppercorns, coriander seeds, and mustard seeds, should be toasted to release their flavors. Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant. Once the spices are toasted, add them to the small bowl containing the other spices and mix well.

Step 2: Brine the Brisket

Combine all of the ingredients listed under the Brine ingredients, except for the brisket, in a large pot. Bring the brine to a boil, stirring occasionally until the salt and sugar dissolve. Remove the pot from heat and let the brine cool completely.

While the brine is cooling, rinse the brisket under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place it in a large food storage bag or container. Once the brine has cooled, pour it over the brisket. Make sure the brisket is fully submerged in the brine. Seal the bag or container, and refrigerate for five days. Turn the brisket over once a day to ensure it gets evenly cured.

Step 3: Cook the Corned Beef Brisket

After five days of brining, remove the brisket from the brine and discard the brine. Rinse the brisket thoroughly under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the brisket in a large pot and add enough water to cover it entirely. Add the remaining pickling spice mixture.

Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 3-4 hours or until the brisket is fork-tender. Once fully cooked, remove the brisket from the pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Conclusion

Making corned beef brisket from scratch takes time and effort, but the end result is worth it. By following our step-by-step guide, you can customize your pickling spice and brine to your liking and create a delicious and hearty meal perfect for any occasion.

FAQ

1. Can I use a different cut of beef for homemade corned beef brisket?

• While the flat section of the brisket is used in this recipe, you can use the point section if you prefer.

2. Can I store homemade corned beef brisket in the refrigerator?

• Yes, store the cooked brisket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.

3. Can I freeze homemade corned beef brisket?

• Yes, you can freeze the cooked brisket for up to three months.

4. Can I add vegetables to the pot when cooking corned beef brisket?

• Yes, you can add vegetables such as cabbage, carrots, and potatoes to the pot during the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.

5. Is pink curing salt necessary for making homemade corned beef brisket?

• Pink curing salt is not necessary but helps achieve the classic pink color and enhances the flavor.