This slow cooker corned beef and cabbage soup recipe is not only nutritious, but it's also incredibly flavorful and easy to make. You'll find that the slow cooker does most of the work for you, making this an ideal dish for busy days. The tender beef, hearty vegetables, and aromatic herbs combine to create a soup that is warming, satisfying, and utterly delicious.
Most of the ingredients for this recipe should be widely available at your local supermarket, but there may be a few items you'll need to look out for. Corned beef is a type of cured beef, typically found in the deli section of the supermarket. Yukon gold potatoes are a variety of potato that's known for its yellow flesh and buttery flavor - they're great for soups and stews due to their creamy texture when cooked.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup
Chicken stock: Used as the base for the soup. It adds depth of flavor and richness to the dish.
Beer: Imparts a unique taste to the soup, enhancing the flavors of the other ingredients.
Corned beef: The star ingredient of this recipe, it's flavorful and becomes incredibly tender when slow cooked.
Yukon gold potatoes: They add heartiness to the soup and their creamy texture is perfect when cooked.
Carrots: They provide color, flavor and additional nutrients.
Celery stalks: Essential in soup recipes, they contribute to the overall flavor profile.
White onion: Adds a sweet and slight tanginess to the soup.
Green cabbage: Adds volume and a pleasant crunch to the soup.
Bay leaf: A common herb in soup recipes, it gives a subtle depth to the dish.
Salt and black pepper: For seasoning, adjusted according to taste.
Fresh parsley: For garnish, it adds a pop of color and freshness.
One reader, Henri Coburn says:
This slow cooker corned beef and cabbage soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the meat is incredibly tender. It's the perfect dish for a cozy night in. Plus, the aroma that fills the house as it cooks is simply irresistible. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup
How to shred the beef: After the beef is cooked and tender, transfer it to a separate plate. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces before returning it to the stew.
How to serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How To Make Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup
This belly-filling cabbage soup is loaded with savory corned beef for the best soup meal. Enjoy a fuss-free, slow cooked dish just in time for dinner.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4cupschicken stock
- 12ozbeer
- 1.5lbcorned beef,cut into large chunks
- 1.5lbYukon gold potatoes,diced into bite-sized pieces
- 2carrots,peeled and diced
- 2celery stalks,diced
- 1medium white onion,peeled and diced
- 1small green cabbage,head, quartered, cored and shredded
- 1bay leaf
- salt and freshly-ground black pepper,generous pinch
For Serving:
- fresh parsley,chopped
Instructions
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Add the chicken stock, beef, corned beef, potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, cabbage, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to a large slow cooker bowl, then toss to combine.
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Cover and cook on Low for 7 to 8 hours or on High for 3 to 4 hours, or until the beef is tender and shreds easily.
-
Transfer the beef chunks from the stew to a separate plate, then use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces.
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Return the beef to the stew, then stir to combine.
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Season with additional salt and pepper to taste, then remove the bay leaf.
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Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 414.20kcal
- Fat: 19.06g
- Saturated Fat: 5.94g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.10g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.04g
- Carbohydrates: 32.19g
- Fiber: 3.83g
- Sugar: 5.43g
- Protein: 23.89g
- Cholesterol: 66.03mg
- Sodium: 1646.50mg
- Calcium: 53.32mg
- Potassium: 1155.28mg
- Iron: 3.63mg
- Vitamin A: 195.66µg
- Vitamin C: 63.60mg
Helpful Technique for Preparing Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup
When preparing your corned beef, it's important to remember that slow cooking is key. This cut of meat can be tough, but slow cooking it in the slow cooker allows it to become tender and flavorful. Additionally, shredding the beef into bite-sized pieces after it's cooked ensures that every spoonful of your soup will have a perfect balance of meat, vegetables, and broth. For an even richer flavor, consider using a dark beer in your broth. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a complex taste that complements the hearty ingredients.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Soup Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and trim the meat the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
Use a food processor: Use a food processor to quickly chop vegetables and save time on prep work.
One-pot cooking: Consider using a pressure cooker to cook the corned beef and cabbage soup in one pot, reducing cooking time.
Buy pre-cut vegetables: Purchase pre-cut vegetables to save time on chopping and preparation.
Slow cooker liners: Use slow cooker liners for easy cleanup and to save time on washing the slow cooker.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup Recipe
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock can provide a similar depth of flavor and richness to the soup without the meat-based stock.
beer - Substitute with beef broth: Beef broth can add a savory depth to the soup similar to beer, without the alcohol content.
corned beef - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey can provide a similar smoky flavor and texture to the soup, while offering a leaner alternative to corned beef.
yukon gold potatoes - Substitute with red potatoes: Red potatoes can be a suitable substitute, offering a similar creamy texture and flavor when cooked.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips can provide a slightly sweeter and earthier flavor, complementing the other ingredients in the soup.
celery stalks - Substitute with fennel: Fennel can offer a similar crunch and subtle anise flavor to the soup, enhancing its overall taste.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions can provide a slightly sweeter flavor, which can complement the other ingredients in the soup.
green cabbage - Substitute with savoy cabbage: Savoy cabbage can be a suitable alternative, offering a tender texture and mild flavor to the soup.
bay leaf - Substitute with thyme: Thyme can provide a similar earthy and aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
salt and freshly-ground black pepper - Substitute with sea salt and mixed peppercorns: Sea salt and mixed peppercorns can offer a more complex and nuanced seasoning to the soup.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh cilantro: Fresh cilantro can provide a vibrant and herbaceous flavor, adding a fresh element to the soup.
Presenting Your Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup
Elevate the plating: Arrange the soup in a deep, wide bowl, ensuring that each ingredient is visible and well-distributed. The presentation should be visually appealing and showcase the vibrant colors of the vegetables and tender corned beef.
Garnish with fresh parsley: Sprinkle a generous amount of freshly chopped parsley over the soup just before serving. The bright green color will provide a beautiful contrast and add a touch of freshness to the dish.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant, high-quality bowls or plates to serve the soup. Opt for classic, timeless designs that complement the rustic charm of the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Before serving, consider drizzling a small amount of olive oil over the soup in an artistic manner. This adds a touch of sophistication and enhances the overall visual appeal.
Add a pop of color with edible flowers: Consider adding a few edible flowers, such as nasturtium or pansies, as a delicate and visually stunning garnish. Ensure that the flowers are thoroughly cleaned and pesticide-free.
Create a harmonious balance: Pay attention to the placement of each element in the bowl, aiming for a balanced and harmonious composition. This attention to detail will elevate the overall presentation of the soup.
Serve with artisanal bread: Accompany the soup with slices of freshly baked artisanal bread, beautifully arranged on the side. This addition enhances the dining experience and provides a delightful textural contrast.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate, allowing the soup to be the focal point while maintaining an elegant and minimalist presentation.
Consider the use of edible microgreens: Sprinkle a few delicate, vibrant microgreens over the soup just before serving. These tiny greens add a burst of color and a subtle hint of earthy flavor.
Enhance with a drizzle of balsamic reduction: For an added touch of sophistication, consider drizzling a small amount of balsamic reduction around the rim of the bowl. This not only adds visual interest but also imparts a hint of sweetness to the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup in a Slow Cooker
- Slow cooker: A slow cooker is a countertop cooking appliance used for simmering at low temperatures. It's perfect for slow-cooking soups, stews, and meats.
- Cutting board: A cutting board is used for preparing and cutting ingredients. It provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables and meats.
- Chef's knife: A chef's knife is a versatile kitchen tool used for slicing, chopping, and dicing a variety of ingredients.
- Large pot: A large pot is essential for making stocks, soups, and stews. It allows for simmering and cooking large quantities of food.
- Tongs: Tongs are used for gripping and lifting hot and cold foods, making them essential for handling the corned beef and other ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are used to accurately measure ingredients such as chicken stock, beer, and seasonings.
- Vegetable peeler: A vegetable peeler is used to peel the outer skin of vegetables such as carrots and potatoes.
- Slow cooker liner: A slow cooker liner can be used to make cleanup easier by preventing food from sticking to the slow cooker.
Storing and Freezing Your Homemade Soup
- Let the corned beef and cabbage soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
- Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag. If using a bag, remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the soup, place the airtight container or freezer-safe bag in the freezer. The soup can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to enjoy the frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheat the thawed soup in a pot on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. Alternatively, you can reheat the soup in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
- If the soup appears too thick after thawing and reheating, add a little chicken stock or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Taste the reheated soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving the reheated soup for added flavor and visual appeal.
How To Reheat Leftover Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup
The best way to reheat leftover slow cooker corned beef and cabbage soup is to use a saucepan on the stove over medium-low heat. Pour the desired amount of soup into the pan and stir occasionally until it reaches your preferred temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure the soup is evenly warmed without overcooking the vegetables or making the corned beef tough.
Another option is to use the microwave, which is quicker but requires more attention. Transfer the soup to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat the soup in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the soup, as this can cause the ingredients to become mushy or rubbery.
If you have a considerable amount of leftover soup, you can reheat it in the slow cooker. Pour the soup into the slow cooker, cover it, and heat on low for 1-2 hours or until it's heated through. This method is ideal if you're reheating soup for a larger group or want to keep it warm for an extended period.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to store the leftover soup properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you don't plan on consuming the soup within this timeframe, consider freezing it for up to 2-3 months. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Interesting Fact About Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup
Corned beef and cabbage is a traditional Irish dish, but it actually originated in America. Irish immigrants adapted their traditional bacon and cabbage dish to use corned beef, which was more readily available in the United States.
Is Making Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup at Home Cost-Effective?
This slow cooker corned beef and cabbage soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as corned beef, potatoes, carrots, and cabbage, are generally affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The use of a slow cooker also helps to tenderize tougher cuts of meat, making it a budget-friendly option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $20-$25, making it a reasonable and economical choice. Overall, I would rate this recipe a solid 8 for its affordability and delicious outcome.
Is This Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup Healthy?
This slow cooker corned beef and cabbage soup recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients like:
- Potatoes: A good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber
- Carrots: High in beta-carotene, vitamin K1, and antioxidants
- Celery: Provides dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals
- Cabbage: Rich in vitamins K, C, and B6, as well as folate and antioxidants
However, there are some concerns:
- Corned beef: High in sodium and saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and high blood pressure
- Beer: Adds extra calories and alcohol content to the dish
- Lack of lean protein sources and other nutrient-dense vegetables
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Replace corned beef with a leaner protein source, such as chicken breast or lean beef
- Omit the beer and replace it with additional chicken stock or water to reduce calories and alcohol content
- Include more vegetables like kale, spinach, or zucchini to increase the nutrient density of the soup
- Use low-sodium chicken stock to reduce the overall sodium content
- Incorporate whole grains, such as barley or quinoa, to add fiber and complex carbohydrates
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme for added flavor and nutrients without extra calories
Editor's Opinion on This Slow Cooker Soup Recipe
This slow cooker corned beef and cabbage soup recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The combination of tender corned beef, hearty vegetables, and flavorful broth creates a comforting and satisfying soup. The use of beer adds depth and richness to the broth, while the slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The addition of fresh parsley as a garnish adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Overall, this recipe is a winner for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
Enhance Your Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Slow Cooker Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup Recipe:
This recipe is a trustworthy choice for a hearty and flavorful meal. The combination of corned beef, yukon gold potatoes, and cabbage creates a rich and satisfying soup. The addition of beer infuses a unique depth of flavor, while the slow cooking process allows the ingredients to meld together perfectly. With chicken stock as the base, this recipe promises a comforting and delicious result. The use of fresh parsley as a garnish adds a final touch of freshness. Trust in the quality and balance of flavors in this slow cooker corned beef and cabbage soup recipe.
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