How Do You Steam Corned Beef

How to Steam Corned Beef for the Most Tender, Flavorful Results

So you've got a beautiful corned beef brisket, ready to be transformed into a culinary masterpiece. Steaming is a fantastic method, yielding incredibly tender and flavorful results. Forget the long, slow boil; steaming offers a faster, more efficient way to achieve perfectly cooked corned beef. Let's dive into how to steam corned beef to perfection!

Preparing Your Corned Beef for Steaming

Before we even think about the steamer, let's prep our star ingredient. This step is crucial for optimal results.

Removing the Cure:

• Important: Many corned beef briskets come pre-packaged in a curing solution. Remove the brisket from its packaging and rinse it thoroughly under cold, running water. This step washes away excess salt and ensures the final product isn't overly salty.

Trimming Excess Fat:

• Optional but Recommended: While some fat is desirable for flavor, excessive fat can render your corned beef greasy. Trim away any large clumps of excess fat before steaming. Leave a thin layer for moisture and flavor.

Steaming Your Corned Beef: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now for the main event! Here's how to expertly steam your corned beef:

What You'll Need:

• A large steamer basket that fits comfortably in your pot.
• A large pot with a tight-fitting lid.
• Enough water to fill the pot at least halfway, but ensuring the water doesn't touch the brisket.
• Your prepared corned beef brisket.
• Optional aromatics: Onions, carrots, celery, bay leaves, peppercorns, garlic cloves – add these to the bottom of the pot for extra flavor!

The Steaming Process:

1. Fill your pot with water: Make sure the water level is sufficient to create steam, but will not submerge your brisket.
2. Add aromatics (optional): If using, place your chosen aromatics in the bottom of the pot before adding the steamer basket.
3. Place the brisket in the steamer basket: Carefully place your prepared corned beef brisket into the steamer basket.
4. Steam to perfection: Cover the pot with the lid and bring the water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, maintaining a gentle simmer. Steam for approximately 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender. Cooking time will depend on the size of your brisket. A meat thermometer is your best friend; the internal temperature should reach 190-200°F (88-93°C).
5. Rest and enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the brisket from the steamer basket and allow it to rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.

Tips for Extra Flavor and Tenderness

• Spices: Experiment with additional spices! Consider adding whole peppercorns, allspice berries, or coriander seeds to the pot along with the aromatics.
• Beer or Broth: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding beer or beef broth to the water instead of plain water.
• Slow Cooker Alternative: While steaming is quick and efficient, if you prefer a hands-off approach, you can achieve a similar result by cooking your corned beef in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, ensuring the meat is fully submerged in liquid.

Serving Suggestions

Your perfectly steamed corned beef is now ready! Serve it with all the classic accompaniments: boiled potatoes, cabbage, carrots, and mustard.

Enjoy your delicious, melt-in-your-mouth corned beef! Remember to always prioritize food safety and practice safe cooking techniques.