Corned beef is a beloved classic, especially around St. Patrick’s Day, but it’s delicious any time of year. If you’ve ever wondered how to buy corned beef that’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for your recipe, you’re in the right place. Let’s break down everything you need to know to confidently pick out the best corned beef at the store or butcher.
What Exactly Is Corned Beef?
First, a quick refresher: corned beef isn’t a specific cut of meat but rather a process. It’s usually made from brisket, which is a cut from the lower chest of the cow. The beef is cured in a brine solution with salt and spices, which gives it that signature tangy, savory flavor and tender texture.
Types of Corned Beef You Can Buy
When you shop for corned beef, you’ll find a few options:
– Brined (Uncooked) Corned Beef: This is the traditional corned beef that you cook yourself. It’s sold in the butcher section and often comes as a whole brisket. This type is ideal if you want to boil or slow-cook your corned beef at home.
– Pre-cooked Sliced Corned Beef: Found at the deli counter, this corned beef is already cooked and sliced. It’s convenient but usually less juicy and flavorful than cooking your own from brined beef.
– Canned Corned Beef: This is fully cooked and shelf-stable but has a different texture and flavor, often used in recipes like corned beef hash.
For the best homemade corned beef experience, go for the brined brisket-you get the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness without the hassle of curing it yourself.
Choosing the Right Cut: Point Cut vs. Flat Cut
Corned beef brisket comes in two main cuts:
– Point Cut: This is the thicker, fattier part of the brisket. It has more marbling and connective tissue, which makes it very juicy and flavorful. It’s great if you want a rich, tender corned beef.
– Flat Cut: Leaner and with a fat cap on one side, this cut is easier to slice and looks better for presentation. It’s also more affordable and commonly used in home cooking. When cooked properly, it still delivers good flavor.
If you prefer leaner meat and neat slices, go for the flat cut. If you want extra flavor and don’t mind a bit more fat, the point cut is your friend.
How Much Corned Beef Should You Buy?
A good rule of thumb is to plan about 3/4 to 1 pound of corned beef per person. This accounts for some shrinkage during cooking and leaves room for leftovers if you want them.
What to Look for When Buying Corned Beef
Here are some tips to pick quality corned beef:
– Firmness: The meat should feel firm to the touch. If it’s too soft or mushy, it might have too much fat or be of lower quality.
– Spices: Some corned beef comes pre-seasoned with classic spices like allspice, peppercorns, and mustard seeds. These add flavor during cooking, so check the label or ask your butcher.
– Freshness: If buying from a butcher, look for bright pink meat with a fresh smell. Avoid any beef that looks grayish or smells off.
– Size: Briskets can range from 8 to 12 pounds or more. Choose a size that fits your cooking method and number of guests.
Where to Buy Corned Beef
Most grocery stores carry corned beef, especially around St. Patrick’s Day. You can find it in:
– The butcher or meat section (brined brisket)
– The deli counter (pre-cooked, sliced)
– Canned goods aisle (canned corned beef)
For higher quality or specialty cuts, consider ordering from a reputable butcher or online meat purveyors that offer USDA Prime corned beef brisket, which is known for superior tenderness and flavor.
Tips for Buying Corned Beef Like a Pro
– If you want to skip the curing process but still cook your own beef, buy the brined (uncooked) brisket. It’s already cured and ready for boiling or slow cooking.
– Ask the butcher for a thick cut if you want to slice it yourself after cooking. Thick cuts retain juiciness better.
– Trim the fat cap before cooking if you prefer leaner meat, especially with the flat cut.
– If you’re new to cooking corned beef, opt for a smaller flat cut brisket to practice on.
Cooking Corned Beef After Buying
Once you’ve bought your corned beef, the classic way to cook it is by boiling or simmering it slowly in water or broth with spices until tender. This usually takes a few hours but results in that melt-in-your-mouth texture everyone loves.
Final Thoughts
Buying corned beef is simple once you know what to look for: choose the brined brisket for cooking at home, decide between point or flat cut depending on your taste, and pick a size that fits your needs. With these tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy a delicious, tender corned beef meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Enjoy your cooking adventure!