Corned beef is a classic dish that many people associate with St. Patrick’s Day. Whether you’re making it to celebrate your Irish heritage or simply because you enjoy the salty, flavorful meat, you may be wondering what to serve with it. After all, while corned beef is delicious, it can be a little heavy on its own. Luckily, there are plenty of side dishes and accompaniments that pair perfectly with this traditional meal.
From hearty vegetables to tangy sauces, this article will take a look at some of the best things to serve with corned beef. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply feeding your family, these tasty ideas are sure to satisfy. So, let’s dive in and explore all the delicious options for serving corned beef.
Traditional side dishes for corned beef: mashed potatoes, carrots, and cabbage
Corned beef is a delicious and satisfying dish, particularly during the colder months. One of the best things about corned beef is that it pairs well with a variety of sides. Perhaps the most traditional sides for corned beef are mashed potatoes, carrots, and cabbage. These sides are often served together to create a hearty and balanced meal.
Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that compliments the salty flavor of corned beef. The creaminess of the mashed potatoes also adds texture to the meal. Carrots are a great addition to any corned beef dish as they provide a pop of color and a bit of natural sweetness. The crunch of the carrots also adds texture to the meal. Cabbage, often cooked in the same pot as the corned beef, is a flavorful side dish that balances the saltiness of the beef. The vegetable is often served in wedges alongside the beef and potatoes. Overall, traditional sides for corned beef provide a warm and comforting meal that hits all the right notes.
Creative twists on classic corned beef accompaniments
When it comes to corned beef, most people think of serving it with classic accompaniments such as cabbage, potatoes, and carrots. These traditional sides are delicious, but they can also be a bit predictable. If you’re looking to switch things up a bit and add some creativity to your corned beef meal, consider experimenting with some fun and unexpected twists on classic accompaniments.
For example, instead of traditional boiled cabbage, try sautéing some shredded cabbage with onion and bacon for a flavorful and elevated side dish. Or, switch out the plain boiled potatoes for some crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and rosemary. If you’re a fan of carrots but want to try something new, consider pickling them for a sweet and tangy twist on this classic vegetable. With a little creativity, you can turn a traditional corned beef meal into a memorable dining experience.
Perfect pairings: beverages to serve with corned beef
Corned beef is a popular dish and finding the right beverage to complement it can enhance your dining experience. Whether you are serving corned beef with a sandwich or as a main course, choosing the right beverage can make all the difference.
One excellent pairing with corned beef is beer. A dark beer, such as a stout or a porter, can perfectly complement the robust flavor of corned beef. Additionally, a lighter beer like lager can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and heavy texture of corned beef. Alternatively, a glass of red wine, such as cabernet sauvignon or zinfandel, can also pair well with corned beef. A glass of chilled white wine, such as a Riesling or sauvignon blanc, can also be a refreshing option for those who prefer a lighter beverage. No matter what your preferences are, choosing the right beverage to serve with corned beef can make your meal more enjoyable.
Gluten-free and vegetarian side dishes to complement corned beef
If you or any of your guests have dietary restrictions, there are still plenty of delicious side dishes you can serve with corned beef. For those who are gluten-free, roasted root vegetables are a great option. Simply toss some chopped carrots, parsnips, turnips, and sweet potatoes with olive oil and seasonings and roast until tender. Another gluten-free option is a quinoa salad with roasted vegetables, nuts, and herbs.
For vegetarian guests, a tasty side dish to complement corned beef is roasted Brussels sprouts. Simply toss them with olive oil and seasonings and roast until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Another vegetarian option is a hearty salad with roasted beets, goat cheese, and balsamic vinaigrette. These side dishes are not only delicious, but they are also nutritious and will add color and variety to your corned beef meal.
Ethnic-inspired sides to try with corned beef
When it comes to serving corned beef, why not add some cultural flair to your meal by trying out ethnic-inspired sides? First up, we have the classic Irish accompaniment- colcannon. This dish combines mashed potatoes with steamed cabbage or kale and is seasoned with salt, pepper, and butter. The result is a creamy and comforting side dish for your corned beef.
Moving over to the Middle East, we have baba ganoush, a delicious eggplant-based dip. The roasted eggplant is blended with tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, giving it a nutty and smokey flavor. Pair it with some warm pita bread on the side and you have a tasty and unique take on serving corned beef. So why not spice up your dinner menu with these ethnic-inspired sides?
One-pot wonders: complete meal ideas featuring corned beef as the centerpiece
If you’re looking for a hearty and filling meal that’s budget-friendly and easy to prepare, a one-pot wonder featuring corned beef as the star is a great option. One of the most popular dishes to make is a corned beef and cabbage stew, which combines the salty and savory flavors of the beef with the sweetness and crunch of the cabbage. You can add potatoes, carrots, onions, and other vegetables to make it a complete meal, and you can season it with herbs and spices to your liking.
Another popular one-pot wonder is a corned beef hash, which uses diced potatoes, onions, and corned beef as the main ingredients. You can fry it until crisp and golden brown, and serve it with a fried egg on top for a delicious and satisfying breakfast or brunch option. You can also add other ingredients like peppers, cheese, or herbs to give it some extra flavor. With these one-pot wonders, you can easily feed a crowd or have leftovers for days.
Serving up leftovers: ideas for repurposing leftover corned beef into new dishes
Don’t let your leftover corned beef go to waste! There are plenty of ways to repurpose this classic Irish dish into new and delicious meals. One of the easiest ways to transform your leftovers is to chop up the corned beef and use it in a sandwich or wrap. Top with sauerkraut, Swiss cheese, and thousand island dressing for a traditional reuben, or switch it up with some spicy mustard and pickles for a zesty twist.
Another great way to use up your corned beef is to turn it into a hearty soup or stew. Add some vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, and cabbage, and simmer with beef broth for a comforting meal. You can even mix in some egg noodles or rice for added texture. With these simple ideas, your leftover corned beef is sure to become a delicious and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
Corned beef is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides and condiments. Whether you prefer traditional accompaniments like cabbage and potatoes or unique twists like avocado salsa and roasted vegetables, there is a perfect pairing for every taste preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new flavors to complement the savory and salty flavor of corned beef.
In summary, corned beef can be served with a wide range of sides and condiments that cater to your taste buds. While there are traditional accompaniments, don’t limit yourself to those options. Corned beef is a dish that can be paired with unique combinations that enhance its flavor and make it a standout meal. With these options, you can now confidently answer the question, “What can I serve with corned beef?” and create a meal that is delicious and satisfying.