This corned beef is tender and juicy, covered with a tasty mustard glaze that gives it a nice kick. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a fun sandwich!
Serving it with some potatoes is a win! I love how the glaze caramelizes in the oven, making it not just delicious but also super easy to make. Who’s ready for some comfort food? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Corned Beef Brisket: This is the star of the dish! Look for a brisket that comes with a spice packet for added flavor. If you can’t find corned beef, you could use a beef roast and follow the brining instructions separately.
Mustard Seeds: Yellow mustard seeds add a delightful crunch and flavor. If you don’t have them, you can skip them, or try using ground mustard as an alternative, but the texture will be different.
Brown Sugar: This helps balance out the tanginess of the mustard. If needed, you can use honey or maple syrup as a sweetener. Just remember to adjust the amount based on your taste preference.
Dijon Mustard: It adds a nice kick to the glaze. If you’re not a fan of Dijon, whole grain mustard could be a flavorful alternative.
Fresh Herbs: I love using rosemary or thyme for garnish. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried herbs can work in a pinch. Just use a smaller amount since dried herbs are stronger than fresh ones.
How Do You Ensure Tender Corned Beef?
Getting your corned beef tender is essential for a great dish. It starts with the cooking method. First, rinse the brisket to get rid of extra salt, then simmer it slowly. Here’s how:
- Put the brisket in a large pot, add onion, garlic, and the spice packet with enough liquid to cover.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat. Cover and let it simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Check for tenderness by poking it with a fork—if it goes in easily, it’s ready!
Cooking it low and slow lets the meat become super tender, so don’t rush this step. Enjoy the comforting aroma while it cooks!
How to Make Corned Beef With Mustard Glaze
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Corned Beef:
- 4 to 5 lbs corned beef brisket (with spice packet if included)
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 4 cups beef broth or water (enough to cover the beef)
For the Mustard Glaze:
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard seeds
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (e.g., rosemary or thyme) for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 3 to 3.5 hours total. You’ll spend around 15 minutes preparing the corned beef and mustard glaze, and then 2.5 to 3 hours cooking the brisket until it’s tender. Finally, there’s a quick 15-20 minute baking time to caramelize the glaze in the oven. Let’s get started!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Cook Corned Beef:
Start by rinsing the corned beef brisket under cold water. This helps to remove excess brine. In a large pot or Dutch oven, place the brisket. Add the quartered onion and crushed garlic, along with the spice packet that might come with the brisket. Pour in enough beef broth or water to cover the meat.
2. Simmer the Beef:
Bring the pot to a boil, then lower the heat. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Check for tenderness by piercing the meat with a fork—it’s ready when it feels soft and comes apart easily.
3. Preheat the Oven:
While the beef cooks, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will prepare it for roasting the mustard-glazed beef later.
4. Prepare for Roasting:
Once the beef is tender, carefully remove it from the pot and place it on a roasting pan or baking dish that you’ve lined with foil or parchment paper. This makes for easier cleanup!
5. Make the Mustard Glaze:
In a small bowl, mix together the yellow mustard seeds, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, and paprika (if you’re using it). This glaze will add a delicious flavor to your corned beef!
6. Glaze the Corned Beef:
Spread the mustard glaze evenly over the top and sides of the corned beef. Make sure every inch is covered to get the full flavor.
7. Roast the Beef:
Place the glazed corned beef in the oven and roast it for about 15-20 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the glaze is bubbly and has caramelized to a beautiful golden color.
8. Let It Rest:
After roasting, remove the beef from the oven and allow it to rest for 5-10 minutes. This will help the juices redistribute, making it even more tender when you slice it.
9. Slice and Serve:
Using a sharp knife, slice the corned beef against the grain to keep it tender. Serve it with any pan juices or extra mustard sauce that you enjoy!
10. Garnish:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh herbs over the slices for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your flavorful Corned Beef with its tangy and slightly sweet mustard glaze!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes, while corned beef brisket is traditional, you can use other cuts like flank or round roast. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time, as different cuts may require less or more time to become tender.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! To use a slow cooker, place the rinsed corned beef, onion, garlic, and water or broth in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, then follow the glaze and roasting steps as instructed.
Can I Prepare the Mustard Glaze Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can mix the mustard glaze ingredients in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to use it. Stir it well before spreading it on the corned beef.
How Do I Store Leftover Corned Beef?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. It’s delicious in sandwiches or with your favorite sides!
