This glazed corned beef features a sweet apricot sauce that enhances the savory flavor of the meat. It's a delightful twist on the traditional corned beef, perfect for special occasions or a comforting family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Combination: The blend of apricot preserves, brown sugar, and soy sauce creates a rich, sweet, and savory glaze that complements the corned beef perfectly.
- Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow, making it accessible even for novice cooks.
- Versatile Serving Options: The glazed corned beef pairs well with various side dishes, and the leftover sauce can be drizzled over vegetables like cooked carrots for added flavor.
Ingredients
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 4 ½ pounds corned beef, rinsed
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a large baking dish by coating it with nonstick cooking spray.
- Prepare Corned Beef: Place the rinsed corned beef into the prepared baking dish and add 1 cup of water. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Initial Baking: Bake the covered corned beef in the preheated oven for 2 hours. After baking, carefully drain and discard the liquid from the dish.
- Apply Glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the apricot preserves, brown sugar, and soy sauce until well combined. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the corned beef.
- Final Baking: Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender. During this time, baste the corned beef occasionally with the pan drippings to enhance the flavor and moisture.
- Serve: Once done, remove the corned beef from the oven, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice across the grain and serve.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 7 servings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours and 25 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours and 40 minutes
Variations
- Alternative Preserves: Substitute apricot preserves with peach, pineapple, or blackberry preserves for a different flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a dash of hot sauce to the glaze mixture to introduce a spicy element.
- Slow Cooker Method: Cook the corned beef in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. Once tender, apply the glaze and finish by broiling in the oven for a few minutes to caramelize the topping.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store any leftover corned beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat slices in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. To prevent drying out, add a spoonful of the leftover glaze or some broth while reheating.
FAQs
What is corned beef?
Corned beef is a beef brisket that has been cured in a salt solution, often with added spices. It's traditionally associated with Irish cuisine and is popular during St. Patrick's Day celebrations.
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
While brisket is traditional for corned beef, you can use other cuts like a round roast. However, cooking times may vary, and the texture might differ from classic corned beef.
Is it necessary to rinse the corned beef before cooking?
Rinsing the corned beef helps remove excess salt from the curing process, leading to a milder flavor. It's recommended but not mandatory.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the corned beef a day ahead. After baking, let it cool, then refrigerate. Reheat in the oven, covered, until warmed through before serving.
What sides pair well with glazed corned beef?
Traditional sides include cabbage, potatoes, and carrots. The sweet glaze also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.
How can I reduce the sweetness of the glaze?
To tone down the sweetness, reduce the amount of brown sugar or apricot preserves, and consider adding a tablespoon of mustard or a splash of vinegar for balance.
Can I freeze leftover glazed corned beef?
Yes, wrap the cooled, sliced corned beef tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I do with leftover corned beef?
Leftover corned beef is excellent in sandwiches, hash, or added to soups and casseroles for added flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Ensure that the soy sauce used is gluten-free, as traditional soy sauce contains wheat. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use fresh apricots instead of preserves for the glaze?
Fresh apricots can be used by cooking them down with some sugar to create a jam-like consistency before mixing with the other glaze ingredients.
Conclusion
This glazed corned beef recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining savory meat with a sweet and tangy glaze. It's perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or when you're simply craving a hearty meal. With its straightforward preparation and versatile serving options, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Glazed Corned Beef
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 7 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This glazed corned beef recipe features a delicious apricot glaze that adds a sweet and savory touch to the traditional dish. Perfect for family dinners, St. Patrick’s Day, or any special occasion, this easy baked corned beef is tender, flavorful, and simple to prepare. Serve it with classic sides like cabbage, potatoes, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 4 ½ pounds corned beef, rinsed
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup apricot preserves
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Prepare Corned Beef: Place the rinsed corned beef in the prepared baking dish and pour in 1 cup of water. Cover tightly with foil.
- Initial Baking: Bake covered for 2 hours. Drain and discard the liquid.
- Make the Glaze: In a small bowl, mix apricot preserves, brown sugar, and soy sauce until combined.
- Apply the Glaze: Spread the glaze evenly over the corned beef.
- Final Baking: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, basting occasionally with pan drippings.
- Serve: Let the corned beef rest for a few minutes, then slice against the grain and serve warm.
Notes
- Make it spicier: Add Dijon mustard or hot sauce to the glaze.
- Alternative glazes: Use pineapple, peach, or blackberry preserves instead of apricot.
- Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then glaze and broil for a caramelized finish.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Irish
