March has never been my favorite month. My friend Carol challenged me to find at least one thing every day in March that I love. She says God loves March, that's why he created it. I just need to look harder.
I'm enjoying my search.
In the 1970s my Dad researched his genealogy and gave his research to me. I've spent the last year researching my Mom's side. Additionally I purchased the DNA kit from Ancestry.com and was thrilled to see the DNA corroborated the research. Although we have ancestors from all over western Europe and Scandinavia, a large number are Scots-Irish.
It may not be St. Patrick's Day yet, but I'm excited about celebrating my Irish roots this year and have gotten a jump on the celebrations by making Corned Beef and Cabbage.
Corned Beef and Cabbage is not hard to make. I never even attempted it before last year because it seemed so mysterious.
Corned Beef and Cabbage
3 lb corned beef brisket with spice packet
small potatoes
3 leeks
1 small head of cabbage
carrots (optional)
In a large Dutch Oven, add the brisket and contents of the spice packet. Cover with water and simmer over medium heat for an hour and a half to two hours.
Since there aren't many spices, I just pour them right into the pot. If you want to add additional pickling spices or your want to be able to pull them out before serving, I recommend using a large infuser ball that simply hangs on the side of the pot.
Clean and chop veggies into big, rough chunks. I had carrots in the fridge, but forget to get them out. I love adding the color carrots bring to the dish.
Add to the pot on top of the brisket that has been cooking for an hour and half to two hours. Continue cooking with the veggies for an additional half hour to hour, until the veggies are tender.
Pull the brisket out of the pot and let it sit for 10 - 15 minutes on a carving board. Insert meat thermometer and make sure it reads 170* or more.
Slice meat against the grain so that it doesn't become stringy. Serve with veggies, Irish Soda Bread, and condiments of hot mustard or horseradish.
