What to serve with corned beef?
Updated: September 11, 2024Introduction to Corned Beef Pairings
Corned beef, with its rich, briny flavor and tender texture, is a classic dish that can be the star of many meals. Whether you're preparing it for St. Patrick's Day or a comforting family dinner, finding the right accompaniments is key to enhancing its deliciousness. Here, we explore a variety of dishes and sides that perfectly complement corned beef, from traditional pairings to more inventive options.
Traditional Sides for Corned Beef
Cabbage
Cabbage is a staple side dish for corned beef, often cooked together in the same pot. The cabbage absorbs the savory flavors of the corned beef, creating a harmonious blend. You can prepare it boiled, sautéed, or roasted for a slightly caramelized taste.
Potatoes
Potatoes are another classic pairing. They can be served in various forms:
- Boiled: Simple and traditional, boiled potatoes can be cooked with the corned beef for a uniform flavor.
- Mashed: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth contrast to the chewy texture of corned beef.
- Roasted: Roasted potatoes with herbs and garlic add a crispy, aromatic element to the meal.
Carrots
Carrots, when cooked alongside corned beef, become tender and sweet. They add color and a subtle sweetness that balances the saltiness of the meat. Roasting carrots with a bit of honey can further enhance their natural sugars.
Innovative Accompaniments
Colcannon
Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish combining mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale. It's a hearty, flavorful side that complements corned beef's robust taste. Adding green onions or leeks can elevate the flavor profile.
Irish Soda Bread
Irish soda bread, with its dense texture and slightly sweet flavor, pairs wonderfully with corned beef. It can be served warm with a pat of butter or used to soak up the juices from the meat.
Horseradish Sauce
A zesty horseradish sauce can cut through the richness of corned beef, providing a sharp, tangy contrast. This simple condiment, made with grated horseradish, vinegar, and sour cream or mayonnaise, can be adjusted to taste.
Vegetable-Based Sides
Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts, perhaps with a balsamic glaze, offer a slightly bitter, nutty flavor that complements corned beef. They can be cooked until crispy or tender, depending on your preference.
Green Beans
Green beans sautéed with garlic and almonds provide a crunchy, fresh counterpart to the meat's richness. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the dish.
Beet Salad
A vibrant beet salad with goat cheese and walnuts brings earthy sweetness and creamy texture to the table. The beets' deep color and flavor create a striking contrast with the corned beef.
Grain-Based Sides
Barley Pilaf
Barley pilaf, cooked with broth and aromatic vegetables, offers a chewy, nutty side that pairs well with corned beef. Adding mushrooms or herbs like thyme can enhance its depth of flavor.
Quinoa Salad
A light quinoa salad with fresh herbs, citrus, and vegetables provides a refreshing, protein-packed side. The salad's bright flavors and textures balance the heaviness of the corned beef.
Wild Rice
Wild rice, with its distinct texture and nutty flavor, makes a unique and satisfying side. Cook it with broth and mix in dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a sweet-savory combination.
Uncommon Pairings for Corned Beef
Pickled Vegetables
Pickled vegetables, such as cucumbers, beets, or red onions, offer a tangy, crunchy contrast to the rich corned beef. The acidity from the pickling process helps cut through the meat's saltiness.
Apple Chutney
A sweet and spicy apple chutney can provide a delightful contrast to corned beef. The combination of apples, vinegar, sugar, and spices creates a complex flavor profile that enhances the meat's savory notes.
Cauliflower Gratin
Cauliflower gratin, with its creamy cheese sauce and tender florets, offers a luxurious side that pairs well with corned beef. The mild flavor of cauliflower allows the corned beef to remain the star while adding a comforting element to the meal.
Diverse Cultural Pairings
Japanese-Inspired Sides
For a unique twist, consider Japanese-inspired sides like steamed edamame, miso soup, or a seaweed salad. These lighter, umami-rich dishes provide a refreshing contrast to corned beef's hearty nature.
Mediterranean Flavors
Mediterranean sides such as tabbouleh, hummus, or tzatziki sauce offer bright, herbaceous flavors that complement corned beef. The use of fresh herbs, olive oil, and lemon creates a vibrant, palate-cleansing experience.
Latin American Influences
Incorporate Latin American sides like black beans, avocado salad, or grilled corn to add a touch of spice and zest. These dishes bring bold flavors and textures that enhance the corned beef's savory profile.
Each of these sides brings its own unique qualities to a corned beef meal, allowing you to tailor your dining experience to your preferences. Whether you choose traditional accompaniments like cabbage and potatoes or venture into innovative and diverse pairings, the possibilities are endless. Let your taste buds guide you on this culinary journey.
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