Are you looking for a simple yet impressive meal to feed a crowd? Look no further! This recipe uses a pre-cooked Costco corned beef brisket to create a mouthwatering, flavorful dish with minimal effort. It's perfect for St. Patrick's Day, a casual weekend dinner, or any occasion where you want a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe emphasizes ease and flavor, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or special celebrations. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this easy-to-follow, homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-4 lb) Costco pre-cooked corned beef brisket (fully cooked)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup cabbage, shredded
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prep the Vegetables: Begin by preparing your vegetables. Slice the onion, chop the carrots and celery, and shred the cabbage. This simple step will save you time during the cooking process.
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Sear the Brisket (Optional): For an extra layer of flavor, you can sear the corned beef brisket in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat for a few minutes on each side. This step isn't essential, as the brisket is already cooked, but it will add a nice crust.
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Simmer the Brisket: Place the seared (or unseared) corned beef brisket in the pot. Add the sliced onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Pour in the beef broth, stir in the Dijon mustard, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Gentle Cooking: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensures the vegetables are tender.
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Add Cabbage: After 30 minutes, add the shredded cabbage to the pot. Continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender to your liking.
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the corned beef brisket from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the sliced brisket with the delicious braised vegetables. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for the Best Costco Corned Beef:
- Don't Overcook: Since the corned beef is already cooked, the goal is to warm it through and meld the flavors, not to cook it further. Overcooking can result in a dry brisket.
- Adjust Broth: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can simmer the liquid uncovered for a bit longer to reduce it.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Add Potatoes: For a heartier meal, add chopped potatoes along with the carrots and celery.
Variations:
- Spicy Corned Beef: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Citrus Twist: Add a squeeze of lemon or orange juice at the end for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with other herbs like rosemary or sage for a unique flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your brisket and the number of servings. A general estimate for a 4-serving recipe would be:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Moderate
This quick dinner idea provides a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy on the cook and big on flavor. Enjoy your effortless, yet impressive, Costco Corned Beef!