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Corned Beef Brine

Corned Beef Brine

Corned beef is brined for 5-7 days in a mix of water, salt, curing salt, sugar, garlic, and pickling spices, then simmered until tender. It’s a flavorful, tender dish often served with cabbage and potatoes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Rest Time: 10 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 25 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 256
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 gallon Water
  • 1/2 cup Kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons Pink curing salt
  • 1/4 cup Sugar
  • 4 cloves Garlic crushed
  • 3 tablespoons Pickling spices mustard seeds, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, bay leaves, etc.
For cooking:
  • Enough to cover brisket Water
  • 2-3 leaves Bay leaves
  • 4 cloves Garlic optional
  • 1 tablespoon Granulated sugar optional

Equipment

  • Large pot (for simmering the brisket)
  • Dutch oven or large stock pot (for brining the beef)
  • Meat thermometer (to check doneness)
  • Plate (to weigh down the brisket during brining)
  • Food storage container (for brining the brisket)
  • Large spoon (for stirring the brine)

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Brine: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine water, kosher salt, pink curing salt, sugar, garlic, and pickling spices. Heat over medium heat until the salt and sugar dissolve completely. Remove from heat and cool.
  2. Cool the Brine: After boiling, add ice cubes to the brine to cool it quickly. Let it chill completely before proceeding.
  3. Submerge the Brisket: Place the beef brisket into a container. Pour the cooled brine over the brisket, ensuring it is fully submerged. Use a plate or clean brick to weigh it down.
  4. Brine for 5-7 Days: Refrigerate the brisket and turn it daily to ensure even brining. Let the brisket cure for 5-7 days for optimal flavor.
  5. Cook the Brisket: After brining, rinse the brisket and place it in a large pot. Add water, bay leaves, and garlic. Simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours or until the meat is tender.
  6. Rest and Slice: Once cooked, let the corned beef rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides.

Notes

The calorie count is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. For more accurate results, refer to the nutrition labels on your ingredients.