How To Sous Vide Corned Beef

What is Sous Vide Cooking?

Sous vide is a cooking method that involves sealing food in a plastic bag and cooking it in a water bath at a precise and consistent temperature. This technique allows for even cooking and precise control over the final result.

Why Sous Vide Corned Beef?

Corned beef is a flavorful and tender cut of meat that can benefit greatly from sous vide cooking. By using this method, you can achieve a perfectly cooked and juicy corned beef with minimal effort.

Steps to Sous Vide Corned Beef

Here are the steps to sous vide corned beef to perfection:

1. Prepare the corned beef by rinsing it under cold water to remove excess salt.
2. Season the corned beef with your choice of spices and herbs. Common choices include black pepper, thyme, and bay leaves.
3. Vacuum-seal the corned beef in a plastic bag, ensuring that it is tightly sealed to prevent any water from entering.
4. Preheat the sous vide water bath to the desired temperature. For corned beef, a temperature of 140°F (60°C) is recommended for a tender and juicy result.
5. Place the sealed corned beef in the water bath and cook it for 48 hours. This extended cooking time allows the collagen in the meat to break down, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
6. Once the corned beef has finished cooking, remove it from the water bath and carefully open the plastic bag.
7. Pat the corned beef dry with paper towels and sear it in a hot skillet for a crispy exterior, if desired.
8. Slice the corned beef against the grain and serve it with your favorite sides.

Benefits of Sous Vide Corned Beef

There are several benefits to cooking corned beef using the sous vide method:

• Consistent Results: Sous vide cooking ensures that the corned beef is evenly cooked from edge to edge, eliminating the risk of overcooking or undercooking.
• Tender Texture: The prolonged cooking time at a low temperature results in a tender and succulent corned beef that is far superior to traditional cooking methods.
• Minimal Effort: Once the corned beef is sealed in the bag and placed in the water bath, there is minimal hands-on time required, allowing you to focus on other tasks.
• Enhanced Flavor: The sealed environment of sous vide cooking helps the corned beef retain its natural juices and flavors, resulting in a more intense and delicious taste.

Conclusion

Sous vide cooking is a fantastic method for preparing corned beef, offering unparalleled control over the cooking process and delivering consistently delicious results. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can enjoy tender, flavorful, and perfectly cooked corned beef with minimal effort. So, fire up your sous vide machine and get ready to impress your taste buds with this mouthwatering dish!