Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- For a less salty result (optional): Submerge the corned beef in a bowl or pot of cold water. Refrigerate for 4-8 hours, changing the water once. Pat the brisket thoroughly dry with paper towels.
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place onion wedges, smashed garlic, bay leaves, and whole peppercorns in the bottom of a large Dutch oven or heavy roasting pan.
- Place the corned beef brisket fat-side up on top of the aromatics. Sprinkle the contents of the included spice packet over the meat.
- Pour the beer or broth into the pot until the liquid comes about 1/3 of the way up the sides of the meat. Do not submerge it completely.
- Cover the pot tightly with its lid or a double layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- Roast in the preheated oven for approximately 4 to 4.5 hours. Begin checking the internal temperature with a probe thermometer at the 4-hour mark. The target internal temperature is a minimum of 195°F (90°C), up to 205°F (96°C). The meat is ready when a fork inserts with almost no resistance.
- Carefully remove the pot from the oven. Transfer the corned beef to a plate or cutting board. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
- In a small bowl, combine the coarse-grain mustard, brown sugar, and ground black pepper to make the glaze.
- Place the corned beef on a clean, foil-lined baking sheet or back into the Dutch oven (without the braising liquid). Brush the glaze generously over the entire top and sides of the brisket.
- Return the glazed corned beef to the hot oven, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes, or until the glaze is sticky, bubbly, and caramelized.
- Transfer the finished corned beef to a clean cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for a minimum of 20 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Using a sharp knife, slice the corned beef firmly but carefully against the grain. Serve warm.
Notes
For best results, use a flat-cut brisket for even cooking. The optional soaking step significantly reduces saltiness. The braising liquid can be strained and reduced to make a flavorful au jus. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and are excellent for sandwiches, hash, or Reuben-style dishes. If you don't have beer or broth, water can be used, but the flavor will be less complex. Always slice against the grain to ensure tenderness.
