Ingredients

4 quarts water
1 1/2 lbs kosher salt
1 lb dark brown sugar
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon mustard seeds
1 sprig thyme
10 juniper berries
10 crushed peppercorns
1 tablespoon baking soda
4 gallons boiling water
1 egg , in shell
salt , if needed
cold water , to cover meat
1 beef brisket
5 garlic cloves
The process of corning beef goes back centuries, as it was a method used to preserve meat before refrigeration. Today, corned beef is most commonly associated with St. Patrick's Day, but it can be enjoyed any time of year. This brine recipe gives the beef brisket a unique and delicious flavor, and the process of brining the meat makes it incredibly tender, making it an excellent main dish for dinner or lunch. Serve the brisket hot or cold in sandwiches or as a main dish with some veggies on the side, and enjoy a taste of corned beef any time of year.

Instructions

1.In a large pot, combine the water, kosher salt, brown sugar, bay leaves, mustard seeds, thyme, juniper berries and crushed peppercorns.
2.Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally, until the salt and sugar have dissolved.
3.Remove the pot from heat and stir in the baking soda.
4.Add the 4 gallons of boiling water to cool the mixture down.
5.Add the egg in its shell and stir.
6.Take the beef brisket and trim the fat to 1/4 inch. Add garlic cloves to the pot and let it cool to room temperature.
7.Once cooled, pour the brine over the brisket, adding additional salt if needed.
8.Cover the brisket with cold water to ensure it is completely submerged in the brine.
9.Cover the pot and refrigerate for 5 days.

PROS

The brine gives the beef brisket a deli-style pastrami flavor and makes the meat very tender.

It is a great way to use a cheaper cut of meat to create a highly flavorful dish.

CONS

Brining a brisket can be time-consuming and requires some advanced planning.
It also can be high in sodium, so those with sodium-sensitive diets should consume in moderation.

It can be difficult to find some of the less common ingredients such as juniper berries.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

While brining meat does not offer specific health benefits, brisket is a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. It is also a leaner meat than many other beef cuts, such as ribeye or sirloin.

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