How to make corned beef hash?

By HotBotUpdated: July 9, 2024

Answer

Corned beef hash is a classic comfort food that combines corned beef, potatoes, onions, and seasonings into a delicious, hearty dish. Perfect for breakfast or brunch, it can also be enjoyed as a satisfying meal any time of the day. This guide will take you through each step of making corned beef hash, from selecting the ingredients to serving the final dish.

Ingredients Selection

Choosing the right ingredients is essential for creating a flavorful corned beef hash. Here's what you'll need:

Corned Beef: You can use leftover corned beef from a previous meal or purchase canned corned beef. Freshly cooked corned beef tends to have a better texture and flavor.
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which crisps up nicely. However, Yukon Gold or red potatoes can also be used for a slightly different taste and texture.
Onions: Yellow or white onions work best for their robust flavor. Red onions can be used for a milder taste.
Butter and Oil: A combination of butter and oil is typically used to cook the hash, providing both flavor and a higher smoke point.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika are commonly used. Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme can also add a nice touch.

Preparation

Before you start cooking, it's essential to prepare all the ingredients properly:

Start

Dice the Potatoes: Peel and dice the potatoes into small, evenly sized cubes. This ensures they cook evenly and become crispy.
Chop the Onions: Finely chop the onions to ensure they integrate well into the hash without overwhelming the other flavors.
Shred or Dice the Corned Beef: If using leftover corned beef, shred or dice it into small pieces. If using canned corned beef, simply open the can and break it into chunks.

Cooking the Potatoes

Properly cooking the potatoes is crucial for achieving the perfect texture:

Boil the Potatoes: Place the diced potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook until they are tender but not falling apart, about 5-7 minutes. Drain and let them dry.
Pan-Fry the Potatoes: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a mixture of butter and oil. Once the butter has melted, add the potatoes in a single layer. Cook until they are golden and crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even browning.

Combining Ingredients

Once the potatoes are ready, it's time to combine them with the other ingredients:

Add the Onions: Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions to the skillet. Cook until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the Corned Beef: Add the shredded or diced corned beef to the skillet. Stir to combine with the potatoes and onions.
Season the Hash: Season the mixture with salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika to taste. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until everything is well combined and heated through.

Optional Add-Ins

To customize your corned beef hash, consider adding some of these optional ingredients:

Bell Peppers: Add diced bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness. Cook them along with the onions.
Garlic: Minced garlic can be added for extra flavor. Add it with the onions to avoid burning.
Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the hash during the last few minutes of cooking for a rich, melty addition.
Eggs: Make wells in the hash and crack eggs into them. Cover the skillet and cook until the eggs are set to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Corned beef hash can be served in various ways to suit different tastes and occasions:

Classic Breakfast: Serve the hash with fried or poached eggs on top and a side of toast.
Brunch Spread: Include it as part of a larger brunch spread with fresh fruit, pastries, and other breakfast favorites.
Dinner Option: Pair the hash with a simple green salad for a hearty dinner.
Leftovers: Corned beef hash can be reheated in a skillet or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional tips to help you make the best corned beef hash:

Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking the potatoes in batches if necessary ensures they get crispy instead of steaming.
Use a Heavy Skillet: A cast-iron skillet retains heat well and helps achieve a crispy texture.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the hash and adjust the seasonings as needed. Corned beef can be salty, so be cautious with additional salt.
Experiment with Textures: Some prefer their hash with larger chunks of corned beef and potatoes, while others like it more finely chopped. Find what works best for you.

Making corned beef hash is a delightful way to use up leftovers and create a hearty meal. By carefully selecting and preparing your ingredients, cooking the potatoes to perfection, and customizing the dish with optional add-ins, you can craft a corned beef hash that suits your taste. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dinner, this versatile dish is sure to satisfy.