Discover the best side dishes to pair with corned beef! From classic sides to modern twists, find out what to serve with corned beef for a delicious meal.
Corned beef is a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or simply looking for a hearty meal, corned beef is always a great choice. However, the key to making the most of this flavorful meat is pairing it with the right side dishes. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best options for serving with corned beef, from classic sides to modern twists and more.
Introduction
Corned beef is a type of salt-cured meat that’s typically made from brisket. It’s a staple of Irish cuisine and is often served on St. Patrick’s Day, but it’s also a popular dish in many other parts of the world. Corned beef is known for its rich, salty flavor and tender texture, which makes it a great choice for sandwiches, stews, and more. However, to really take your corned beef to the next level, you’ll need to pair it with the right side dishes.
Classic Side Dishes for Corned Beef
No discussion of what to serve with corned beef would be complete without mentioning the classic side dishes that have been enjoyed for generations. These dishes are simple, comforting, and pair perfectly with the rich, salty flavor of corned beef. Here are a few of our favorites:
Boiled Cabbage
Boiled cabbage is a classic side dish that’s often served with corned beef. It’s simple to prepare and adds a fresh, crunchy texture to your meal. To make boiled cabbage, simply chop up a head of cabbage and boil it in salted water for 10-15 minutes, until it’s tender.
Potatoes
Potatoes are another classic side dish that pairs perfectly with corned beef. You can prepare them in a variety of ways, from mashed potatoes to roasted potatoes to potato salad. Whichever method you choose, make sure to season your potatoes with plenty of salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavor.
Stay tuned for the next section to discover modern twists on classic side dishes and how to pair bread and grains with corned beef.
Modern Twists on Classic Side Dishes
While classic side dishes are always a great option for serving with corned beef, sometimes it’s fun to mix things up a bit. Here are a few modern twists on classic side dishes that are sure to take your meal to the next level:
Roasted Vegetables
Roasting vegetables is a great way to bring out their natural sweetness and add depth to your meal. Some great options for roasting include carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts. Simply chop up your vegetables, toss them with olive oil and salt, and roast them in the oven until they’re tender and caramelized.
Sweet Potato Mash
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, sweet potato mash is a great option. Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients and have a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with corned beef. To make sweet potato mash, simply boil sweet potatoes until they’re tender, then mash them with butter, salt, and pepper.
Cauliflower Gratin
Cauliflower gratin is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional potato gratin. To make this dish, simply chop up a head of cauliflower and boil it until it’s tender. Then, mix it with a creamy cheese sauce and bake it in the oven until it’s bubbly and golden brown.
Bread and Grains to Pair with Corned Beef
Bread and grains are another important component of any corned beef meal. Here are a few options that are sure to please:
Rye Bread
Rye bread is a traditional bread that’s often served with corned beef. Its hearty texture and slightly sour flavor pair perfectly with the salty, rich flavor of corned beef. You can also use rye bread to make sandwiches or toast for a delicious breakfast.
Irish Soda Bread
Irish soda bread is a classic bread that’s made with baking soda instead of yeast. It has a dense, crumbly texture and a slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with corned beef. You can also add raisins or other dried fruit to your soda bread for a sweeter twist.
Quinoa Salad
If you’re looking for a healthier alternative to traditional bread and grains, quinoa salad is a great option. Quinoa is a nutrient-dense grain that’s packed with protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients. To make a delicious quinoa salad, simply mix cooked quinoa with fresh herbs, chopped vegetables, and a simple vinaigrette dressing.
Sauces and Condiments to Enhance the Flavor of Corned Beef
While corned beef is delicious on its own, adding a flavorful sauce or condiment can take it to the next level. Here are a few options to consider:
Mustard
Mustard is a classic condiment that pairs perfectly with corned beef. It adds a tangy, slightly spicy flavor that complements the salty, rich taste of the meat. You can use any type of mustard you like, but a coarse-grain or Dijon mustard is particularly delicious.
Horseradish
Horseradish is another great condiment for corned beef. It has a sharp, pungent flavor that cuts through the richness of the meat and adds a bit of heat to your meal. You can use prepared horseradish or make your own by grating fresh horseradish root and mixing it with vinegar.
Pickles
Pickles may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of serving with corned beef, but they’re actually a delicious addition. The sour, tangy flavor of pickles complements the salty taste of the meat and adds a refreshing crunch to your meal. You can use any type of pickle you like, but dill pickles are particularly tasty.
Beverage Options to Complement Corned Beef
Of course, no meal is complete without a tasty beverage to wash it down. Here are a few options that pair well with corned beef:
Irish Beer
If you’re looking for a classic beverage to pair with your corned beef, you can’t go wrong with an Irish beer. Guinness is a popular choice, but you can also try other Irish beers like Smithwick’s or Harp Lager.
Red Wine
If you prefer wine to beer, a bold, full-bodied red wine is a great choice for pairing with corned beef. Look for a wine with rich, fruity flavors and firm tannins to stand up to the flavor of the meat.
Apple Cider
For a non-alcoholic option, apple cider is a great choice. Its sweet, fruity flavor complements the salty taste of the meat and adds a refreshing touch to your meal. Plus, it’s a great choice for kids or anyone who prefers not to drink alcohol.
Conclusion
In conclusion, serving the right side dishes and beverages can really enhance the flavor of your corned beef. From classic sides like boiled cabbage and potatoes to modern twists like roasted vegetables and quinoa salad, there are plenty of options to choose from. And don’t forget to add a flavorful sauce or condiment, like mustard or horseradish, to really take your meal to the next level. Finally, a glass of Irish beer, red wine, or apple cider is the perfect way to wash it all down. At Buckingham Smokehouse, we’re committed to providing our customers with the best possible culinary experience, and we hope these tips will help you take your corned beef to the next level.
