Corned beef hash is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. It’s a simple dish made from tender corned beef, potatoes, onions, and a few seasonings, all cooked together until crispy and golden. Whether you have leftover corned beef or buy it fresh, cooking corned beef hash is straightforward and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive into how you can make this tasty dish at home with ease!
What You’ll Need
– Corned beef: About 2 to 4 cups of cooked corned beef, chopped or diced.
– Potatoes: Russet potatoes are common, peeled and diced into about ½-inch cubes.
– Onions: A sweet or yellow onion, diced.
– Butter: For sautéing and adding richness.
– Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
– Optional additions: Bell peppers, chives, parsley, and eggs if you want to serve it with eggs.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Corned Beef Hash
1. Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing your potatoes into small cubes-about half an inch works well. Boil them in salted water for 5 to 10 minutes until they are just fork-tender but not falling apart. Drain the potatoes well to avoid sogginess later.
2. Sauté the Onions and Potatoes
In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they soften and start to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Then add the boiled potatoes, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes and onions begin to brown and develop a crispy texture, around 8 to 10 minutes.
3. Add the Corned Beef and Seasonings
Add the chopped corned beef to the skillet along with garlic powder and onion powder for extra flavor. Stir everything together so the flavors meld. Press the mixture down evenly with the back of a spatula to form a compact layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 3 to 5 minutes to develop a golden, crispy crust on the bottom – this crust is what makes hash so delicious.
4. Flip and Brown the Other Side
Carefully scrape under the hash and flip it over so the crispy side is on top. Add the remaining butter and mix it in. Press the hash down again and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes until the other side is golden and crispy. You can repeat this flipping and browning process a few times to get the perfect crust on both sides.
5. Optional: Add Eggs
For a classic breakfast, make small wells in the hash and crack eggs into them. Cover the pan and cook on low heat until the eggs are done to your liking. Alternatively, serve the hash with fried or scrambled eggs on the side.
Tips for the Best Corned Beef Hash
– Use leftover corned beef if possible, as it’s already cooked and full of flavor. If you don’t have leftovers, you can buy unsliced corned beef from the deli or cook a fresh corned beef brisket yourself.
– Flavor the potatoes by boiling them in corned beef broth or seasoning the water with pickling spices to carry the signature flavor throughout the dish.
– Don’t stir too often while cooking. Letting the hash sit undisturbed helps develop that sought-after crispy crust.
– Add vegetables like bell peppers or scallions for extra color and flavor.
– Use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes if you want the pieces to hold their shape better, though russets are traditional and give a fluffier texture.
Variations to Try
– Spicy hash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
– Herbaceous twist: Stir in fresh parsley or chives at the end for brightness.
– Cheesy hash: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the hash in the last few minutes of cooking and let it melt.
– Hash with veggies: Toss in cooked carrots, peas, or bell peppers for a heartier meal.
Corned beef hash is a versatile, comforting dish that transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful meal. Whether you enjoy it crispy or soft, with eggs or on its own, learning how to cook corned beef hash opens the door to a satisfying and easy-to-make classic.
Enjoy your homemade corned beef hash, a perfect way to turn leftovers into a delicious meal!