Oven Baked Corned Beef

Oven Baked Corned Beef is a classic dish that transforms a salt-cured beef brisket into a succulent, flavorful meal. This method involves slowly baking the corned beef in the oven, often with a mixture of spices, such as bay leaves, peppercorns, and mustard seeds, which are typically included in the corned beef's spice packet. The slow baking process tenderizes the meat, allowing it to absorb the aromatic spices fully, resulting in a tender, juicy, and deeply flavorful dish. Oven Baked Corned Beef is often served sliced, accompanied by cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, making it a hearty and comforting meal, especially popular on St. Patrick's Day or during the colder months. Its simplicity, combined with the depth of flavor, makes it a beloved dish in many households.

How to Prepare Oven-Baked Corned Beef

Ingredients:

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 150°C (300°F).
2. Prep the Brisket: Rinse the corned beef brisket to remove any excess salt from the brining process.
3. Season: Place the brisket fat side up in a large roasting pan. Scatter the onion, garlic, bay leaves, and pickling spices around and on top of the meat.
4. Add Liquid: Pour water or beef broth into the bottom of the pan to create steam while the meat cooks.
5. Wrap and Bake: Cover the roasting pan tightly with aluminum foil or a lid. Bake in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours.
6. Check for Doneness: The corned beef is done when it is tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
7. Rest Before Slicing: Remove the corned beef from the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
8. Slice Against the Grain: To ensure the meat is as tender as possible, slice the corned beef against the grain before servin
9. Dobar tek!

How to Serve and Pair Oven-Baked Corned Beef

Serving options: Oven Baked Corned Beef pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Here are some delicious options:

• Buttered Boiled Potatoes: Simple yet perfect, these potatoes soak up the corned beef's flavors wonderfully.
• Braised Cabbage: Slowly cooked cabbage with a touch of apple cider vinegar offers a slightly tangy complement to the savory beef.
• Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness balances the saltiness of the corned beef.
• Colcannon: A traditional Irish dish made from mashed potatoes and kale (or cabbage), adding a creamy texture and a burst of green.
• Sautéed Green Beans: A quick and easy side that brings a crisp texture and a fresh taste.
• Irish Soda Bread: Ideal for sopping up the flavorful juices of the corned beef.
• Parsley Sauce: A simple, herbaceous sauce that brightens up the rich meat.
• Glazed Parsnips: Their sweet, earthy flavor is a great match for the corned beef's depth.
• Peas and Mint: The freshness of mint and the sweetness of peas offer a light contrast to the dish.
• Horseradish Sauce: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, this sauce adds a spicy kick that cuts through the fattiness of the beef.

Pairing suggestions: 

• Irish Stout: A classic choice, the roasted barley flavors of a stout like Guinness complement the salty, savory notes of the corned beef.
• Red Wine: Opt for a medium-bodied red wine such as Merlot or Zinfandel. Their fruity notes and softer tannins balance the saltiness of the meat.
• Irish Whiskey: A smooth Irish whiskey can cleanse the palate between bites with its warm, slightly sweet profile.
• Cider: A dry hard cider offers a crisp and refreshing contrast to the richness of the corned beef.
• Pale Ale: A beer with a balanced malt and hop profile can stand up to the hearty flavors without overwhelming them.
• Pinot Noir: This light-bodied red wine, with its subtle earthy notes, complements the spices used in corned beef.
• Riesling: A slightly sweet or off-dry Riesling can offset the saltiness of the corned beef, especially if your dish includes a glaze.
• Irish Coffee: For an after-dinner treat, Irish coffee provides warmth and sweetness, making it a perfect end to a hearty meal.
• Water: Always a good idea, especially if the corned beef is on the saltier side. Sparkling water can add a bit of festivity to the meal.
• Sauvignon Blanc: If you prefer white wine, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with its high acidity can cut through the fat of the corned beef nicely.

Dietary Information:

• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. However, always check the labels on pickling spices and broth to ensure they are gluten-free.
• High in Protein: Corned beef is a good source of protein but is also high in sodium and fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation, especially by those monitoring their salt or fat intake.

Make Ahead Tips:

• Marinating: For deeper flavor, the brisket can be marinated with the pickling spices, onion, and garlic in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
• Cooking in Advance: Corned beef can be baked a day or two ahead of time, cooled, and then stored in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven, covered with foil, in a bit of broth to keep it moist.
• Storing Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The corned beef can also be sliced, wrapped, and frozen for up to 2-3 months.