What to Serve with Corned Beef: Irresistible Pairing Ideas

Originally posted on November 16, 2023 @ 8:44 am

When it comes to corned beef, choosing the right sides can make all the difference in creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether you are planning a St. Patrick’s Day feast or simply looking to enjoy this classic dish, there are a variety of delectable pairings that perfectly complement corned beef.

In this section, we will explore traditional accompaniments and creative side dishes that will enhance the flavors of your corned beef. From hearty sides to easy meal ideas, you’ll find plenty of irresistible options to choose from.

Key Takeaways:

• Choosing the right sides can make all the difference in creating a delicious corned beef meal.
• There are a variety of traditional accompaniments and creative side dishes that perfectly complement corned beef.
• Hearty sides and easy meal ideas are great choices for a filling and satisfying meal.

Classic Corned Beef Pairings

Corned beef is a beloved dish that can be enjoyed on its own, but its flavors can truly shine when paired with the right sides. Classic corned beef pairings are traditional and timeless options that have been enjoyed for generations.

Boiled Vegetables

Boiled vegetables are a classic side dish that perfectly complement the hearty flavors of corned beef. Cabbage, carrots, and potatoes are popular choices and can be boiled alongside the corned beef for a complete and easy meal.

Irish Soda Bread

Irish soda bread is a staple in Irish cuisine and makes a perfect accompaniment to corned beef. Its dense and slightly sweet texture pairs well with the savory and salty flavors of the meat.

Sides	Description
Cabbage	Cabbage is a classic side dish that is often boiled or sautéed and served alongside corned beef.
Carrots	Carrots can be boiled with the corned beef or roasted for a flavorful and colorful addition to the meal.
Potatoes	Potatoes are a staple of Irish cuisine and make a perfect side dish for corned beef.
Irish Soda Bread	A dense and slightly sweet bread that pairs well with the savory and salty flavors of corned beef.

Note: Boiled vegetables and Irish soda bread are also popular choices for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

Mustard and Horseradish Sauce

Mustard and horseradish sauces are classic condiments that bring out the flavors of the corned beef. They add a tangy and spicy kick to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

When choosing sides for your corned beef meal, consider classic pairings like boiled vegetables, Irish soda bread, and mustard and horseradish sauces. These traditional accompaniments are simple and easy to prepare, allowing the corned beef to remain the star of the show.

Hearty Sides for Corned Beef

Corned beef is a satisfying dish that pairs perfectly with hearty sides. When choosing your accompaniments, consider options that are filling and add extra flavor to your meal. Here are some ideas:

Side Dish	Description
Roasted Root Vegetables	A medley of roasted carrots, potatoes, turnips, and parsnips
Colcannon	A traditional Irish dish of mashed potatoes and cabbage
Irish Soda Bread	A dense and hearty bread made with baking soda instead of yeast
Braised Cabbage	Slow-cooked cabbage with onions and bacon for extra flavor
Champ	Mashed potatoes mixed with scallions and butter

In addition to these classic options, you can also consider pairing corned beef with baked beans, mac and cheese, or a side salad with hard-boiled eggs and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

When serving hearty sides with corned beef, it’s best to keep the portions moderate to avoid overindulging. This will ensure you have enough room for a slice of the delicious meat itself!

Easy Corned Beef Meal Ideas

If you’re short on time but still craving the delicious taste of corned beef, try out some of these easy meal ideas that pair perfectly with this classic dish:

Corned Beef Hash

Corned beef hash is a simple yet tasty dish that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. To make it, simply dice up some cooked corned beef and mix it with diced potatoes, onions, and peppers. Cook in a skillet until crispy and golden-brown.

Corned Beef Tacos

For a fun twist on traditional tacos, try filling your tortillas with shredded corned beef and all your favorite toppings, like lettuce, tomato, and cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream for some extra creaminess.

Corned Beef Reuben Sandwich

The Corned Beef Reuben Sandwich is a classic sandwich that never fails to satisfy. Toast some rye bread, layer on some Swiss cheese, corned beef, sauerkraut, and Thousand Island dressing. Grill in a pan until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup

For a cozy and comforting meal, try making a batch of corned beef and cabbage soup. Simply boil corned beef with cabbage and other veggies like carrots and potatoes to create a hearty and filling soup. Serve with some crusty bread on the side.

“These easy meals ideas are perfect for busy weeknights or when you simply don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. They are delicious and will definitely satisfy your hunger!”

St. Patrick’s Day Sides

St. Patrick’s Day is a time to celebrate all things Irish, and corned beef is a quintessential dish that makes an appearance on many tables. While the star of the show is undoubtedly the corned beef, it’s important not to overlook the sides. Whether you’re hosting a festive gathering or simply want to add a touch of Irish flair to your meal, these St. Patrick’s Day sides will do just that.

Colcannon

Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish made with mashed potatoes, cabbage or kale, and butter or cream. It’s creamy, comforting, and pairs perfectly with corned beef. To make it even more festive, add some chopped scallions or leeks.

Irish Soda Bread

No St. Patrick’s Day meal is complete without some Irish soda bread. This bread is easy to make and requires just a few simple ingredients, including flour, baking soda, salt, and buttermilk. Serve it warm with a generous slather of butter.

Soda Bread Recipe	Ingredients	Instructions
Irish Soda Bread	4 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp salt 14 oz buttermilk	Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Mix flour, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl. Add buttermilk and stir until mixed thoroughly. Turn dough out onto a floured surface and knead briefly. Shape dough into a round loaf and place on a baking sheet. Cut an “X” across the top of the loaf. Bake for 20-30 minutes or until the loaf sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.

Roasted Vegetables

Corned beef is a hearty dish, so it’s nice to balance it out with some flavorful vegetables. Roasted carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts are a great option. Simply toss them with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven until tender and caramelized.

Green Beans with Almonds

For a simple yet delicious side, try green beans with almonds. Blanch the green beans until tender-crisp, then toss with some sautéed garlic and toasted almonds. It’s a light and refreshing side that pairs well with the rich flavors of corned beef.

Guinness

Okay, so Guinness isn’t technically a side dish, but it’s a classic Irish beer that pairs perfectly with corned beef. If you’re hosting a St. Patrick’s Day gathering, be sure to stock up on plenty of this rich and flavorful brew.

Delicious Sides for Corned Beef

While corned beef is a flavorful and hearty dish on its own, serving it with delicious sides can take it to the next level. Here are some ideas for delicious sides to serve with your corned beef:

Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavors, making them the perfect accompaniment to corned beef. Try roasting carrots, parsnips, and potatoes with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs for a delicious side dish.

Colcannon

Colcannon is a traditional Irish dish consisting of mashed potatoes, cabbage, and butter. It’s the perfect complement to corned beef, with its creamy texture and rich flavor.

Irish Soda Bread

A homemade loaf of Irish soda bread is the perfect addition to a St. Patrick’s Day meal featuring corned beef. Its dense texture and slightly sweet flavor make it perfect for soaking up the juices of the corned beef.

Mustard Sauce

A tangy mustard sauce is a perfect condiment for corned beef. Mix Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, and a touch of honey for a delicious sauce to serve alongside your corned beef.

Cucumber Salad

A cool and refreshing cucumber salad is the perfect accompaniment to the rich flavors of corned beef. Mix sliced cucumbers, red onions, and dill in a vinegar-based dressing for a delicious and healthy side dish.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your sides! Try experimenting with different flavors and textures to find the perfect complement to your corned beef.

Best Sides for Corned Beef

If you want to make your corned beef meal truly unforgettable, it’s essential to choose the best sides that complement the rich flavors of this hearty dish. Here are some of the top side dishes that will make your corned beef shine:

Side Dish	Description
Roasted Potatoes	Roasted to perfection with garlic, rosemary, and thyme, these potatoes are the ultimate complement to corned beef.
Cabbage and Carrots	This classic vegetable dish is a must-have alongside corned beef. Cooked with butter and seasoned with salt and pepper, it’s a flavorful and healthy side.
Irish Soda Bread	This traditional bread is a staple of Irish cuisine. Its dense texture and slightly sweet taste are a perfect contrast to the savory corned beef.
Colcannon	A mashed potato dish with kale or cabbage mixed in, colcannon is a traditional Irish side that brings a hearty and comforting element to your corned beef meal.
Mustard Sauce	Adding a tangy and slightly spicy flavor to your corned beef, mustard sauce is the perfect way to balance out the richness of the meat.

These sides are just a few of the many options available to you. When choosing the perfect side dish for your corned beef, consider the flavors and textures that will complement the dish best. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can create a meal that is truly unforgettable.

Traditional Corned Beef Accompaniments

When it comes to corned beef, sometimes the best pairings are the ones that have been enjoyed for generations. These timeless sides bring out the rich flavors of the meat and add a touch of nostalgia to any meal. Here are some traditional corned beef accompaniments that you won’t want to miss:

Side Dish	Description
Boiled cabbage	A classic pairing for corned beef, boiled cabbage is both flavorful and nutritious. We recommend cooking the cabbage in the same pot as the corned beef for maximum flavor.
Colcannon	This traditional Irish dish combines mashed potatoes with kale or cabbage, butter, and cream for a rich and creamy side that complements corned beef perfectly.
Carrots and Parsnips	Roasted carrots and parsnips are a sweet and savory combination that pair well with the saltiness of corned beef. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast until tender and caramelized.
Irish Soda Bread	This hearty bread is a perfect addition to any corned beef meal. Its dense texture and subtle sweetness balance out the flavors of the meat.
Mustard	While not a side dish, a good mustard is a must-have when serving corned beef. A strong Dijon or spicy brown mustard will cut through the richness of the meat and provide a tangy contrast to the flavors.

These traditional sides are a surefire way to make your corned beef meal a success. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day or just looking for a satisfying meal, these classics won’t disappoint.

Pairings for Corned Beef Sandwiches

Corned beef sandwiches are a classic lunchtime favorite, but what should you serve with them to take them to the next level? Here are some delicious side dishes that perfectly complement your corned beef sandwich.

• Chips or French Fries: A classic choice for any sandwich, chips or French fries provide the perfect crispy and salty accompaniment to your corned beef sandwich.
• Macaroni Salad: For a creamy and tangy side dish, try some macaroni salad. The combination of elbow pasta, mayonnaise, and vinegar adds a refreshing element to your meal.
• Potato Salad: Potato salad is another classic side dish that pairs perfectly with corned beef. The creaminess of the potatoes and the tanginess of the dressing create a perfect balance of flavors.

If you’re looking for something a bit lighter, consider a fresh garden salad or some crunchy carrot sticks. These options provide a healthy and refreshing contrast to the rich flavor of your corned beef sandwich.

No matter what you choose, make sure your side dish enhances the flavors of your corned beef sandwich and complements your taste buds. With these options, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal every time.

Creative Side Dishes

If you’re feeling adventurous, why not try some creative side dishes to serve with your corned beef? These unique flavor combinations are sure to impress your taste buds.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

For a tasty twist on a classic vegetable, try roasting Brussels sprouts with bacon and maple syrup. The sweet and salty flavors pair perfectly with the savory corned beef.

Colcannon

This traditional Irish side dish is made with mashed potatoes and cabbage, creating a creamy and flavorful combination. Mix in some crispy bacon or scallions for added texture and taste.

Spicy Carrots

For a touch of heat, try roasting carrots with cumin and chili powder. The warm spices bring out the flavor of the corned beef while adding an extra kick to your meal.

Grilled Asparagus

Grilling asparagus brings out the natural sweetness of the vegetable, creating a delicious pairing with corned beef. Drizzle with lemon juice and garlic for added flavor.

Horseradish Sauce

For a tangy and spicy side, make some horseradish sauce to accompany your corned beef. Mix together grated horseradish, sour cream, and Dijon mustard for an easy and flavorful sauce.

Braised Red Cabbage

Braising red cabbage with apple cider vinegar and brown sugar creates a sweet and tangy side dish that pairs perfectly with corned beef. Top with crumbled bacon for added crunch and flavor.

With these creative side dishes, you can elevate your corned beef meal and satisfy your taste buds with new and exciting flavors. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match and discover a new favorite dish.

Other Corned Beef Accompaniments

Aside from the classic and hearty sides that we have already explored, there are other corned beef accompaniments that can elevate your meal. These options offer unique flavors and textures that are sure to impress your taste buds.

Corn Bread

There’s nothing like a warm slice of cornbread to go with your corned beef. The sweetness of the corn complements the saltiness of the beef, making for a delicious pairing. You can opt for a classic recipe or add some jalapenos or cheddar cheese for an extra kick of flavor.

Guinness Mustard

This tangy and flavorful mustard is made with Guinness beer and adds a unique twist to your corned beef meal. It’s easy to make at home and only requires a few ingredients, including whole-grain mustard, honey, and of course, Guinness beer. Spread it on a slice of freshly baked bread or use it as a dipping sauce for your corned beef.

Braised Cabbage

Cabbage is a classic side dish for corned beef, but braising it takes it to a whole new level. Cook it low and slow with some bacon, onion, and apple cider vinegar for a dish that’s tangy, savory, and slightly sweet. It’s the perfect accompaniment to your corned beef meal.

Potato Salad

If you’re looking for a cold side dish to serve with your corned beef, potato salad is a great option. The creaminess of the potatoes pairs well with the salty beef, while the tangy dressing adds a burst of flavor. Add in some chopped pickles or hard-boiled eggs for a twist on the classic recipe.

Irish Soda Bread

This classic bread is a staple of Irish cuisine and pairs perfectly with corned beef. The bread is made with buttermilk, baking soda, and flour, resulting in a deliciously dense and slightly sweet loaf. Serve it warm with a dollop of butter for the ultimate comfort food experience.

“There’s nothing like a warm slice of cornbread to go with your corned beef.”

Conclusion

Now that we’ve explored a variety of options for what to serve with corned beef, it’s time to get creative in the kitchen! From classic pairings to hearty sides, St. Patrick’s Day favorites to innovative dishes, there are countless ways to complement the flavors of this beloved dish.

Remember that choosing the right sides can make all the difference in taking your corned beef meal to the next level. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner, there’s no shortage of delicious options to explore.

So, go ahead and experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match. You never know, you might discover a new favorite pairing that you’ll crave time and time again!

Thank you for joining us on this culinary journey. We hope our suggestions have inspired you to create a truly memorable meal featuring everyone’s favorite – corned beef.