Ingredients:
- 1 gallon (3.8 liters) water, divided
- 1 cup (200g) kosher salt (Diamond Crystal preferred), or ¾ cup (170g) table salt
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 4 teaspoons (12g) pink curing salt (Prague Powder #1 or Instacure #1 - Important!)
- 2 tablespoons (8g) whole black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons (5g) yellow mustard seeds
- 2 teaspoons (4g) coriander seeds
- 1 teaspoon (2g) allspice berries
- ½ teaspoon (1g) ground ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 bay leaf, crumbled
- 1 cinnamon stick, broken in half
- Optional: 1 teaspoon (2g) juniper berries, lightly crushed
- 4-5 pound (1.8-2.3 kg) beef brisket, point cut or flat cut
Instructions:
- Combine 2 cups of the water, salt, sugar, curing salt, peppercorns, mustard seeds, coriander seeds, allspice, ginger, garlic, bay leaf, cinnamon stick, and juniper berries (if using) in a saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
- Remove the brine from the heat and add the remaining water. Allow the brine to cool completely to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator.
- Place the brisket in your large container. Pour the cooled brine over the brisket, ensuring it is completely submerged. If necessary, use a plate or weight to keep the brisket fully immersed in the brine.
- Cover the container and refrigerate for 5-7 days. Turn the brisket over every day to ensure even curing. Homemade Corned Beef Is Easier!
- After curing, remove the brisket from the brine and rinse thoroughly under cold water. Discard the brine.
- Choose your cooking method (Dutch oven, slow cooker, or pot): Dutch Oven: Place the brisket in a Dutch oven and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender and the internal temperature reaches 203°F (95°C). Slow Cooker: Place the brisket in a slow cooker and cover with fresh water. Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender. Pot: Place brisket in a pot and cover with fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 3-4 hours, or until the brisket is fork-tender.
- Remove the cooked corned beef from the cooking liquid and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing against the grain. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful result.
- Slice the corned beef thinly against the grain. Serve hot with your favourite sides.