If you are a fan of smoked meat, then you must have heard of Traeger corned beef. Corned beef is a traditional Irish dish made with salt-cured brisket, which is then slow-cooked until it is tender and flavorful. Traeger, a leading brand in the pellet grill industry, has brought their unique touch to this classic dish by infusing it with smoky flavor. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of cooking the perfect Traeger corned beef.
What is Corned Beef?
Before we delve into the cooking process, let’s first understand what corned beef is. Corned beef is made by curing a beef brisket in a brine made of water, salt, sugar, and spices such as bay leaves, cloves, and coriander. The term “corned” comes from the large grains of salt used to cure the meat, which were once referred to as “corns.” After the brisket has been cured, it can be cooked by boiling, roasting, or smoking.
Why Traeger Corned Beef?
Traeger corned beef has become increasingly popular due to its distinct smoky flavor. Traeger grills use hardwood pellets to smoke meat, which impart a unique taste that cannot be replicated by other cooking methods. The smoke infuses the corned beef, adding a layer of depth and complexity to the dish.
How to Cook Traeger Corned Beef
Now that we know what corned beef is and why Traeger corned beef is worth trying, let’s dive into the cooking process. Here is a step-by-step guide to cooking the perfect Traeger corned beef:
Step 1: Soak the Corned Beef
Before cooking the corned beef, it is essential to soak it to remove excess salt. Soak the brisket in a bowl of cold water for at least 2 hours, changing the water every 30 minutes.
Step 2: Season the Brisket
Remove the corned beef from the water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Rub the brisket with a mixture of your favorite spices, such as garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. You can also add a layer of mustard for extra flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Traeger Grill
Preheat your Traeger grill to 250°F. Place a disposable aluminum tray filled with water on the grill grates to keep the meat moist during cooking.
Step 4: Smoke the Corned Beef
Place the seasoned corned beef on the grill grates, fat side up. Smoke the brisket for 4-6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the corned beef is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for at least 15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it juicier and more flavorful. Slice the brisket against the grain and serve with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, cabbage, or carrots.
Tips for Perfect Traeger Corned Beef
- Use a quality corned beef brisket from a reputable source.
- Soak the brisket before cooking to remove excess salt.
- Season the brisket with your favorite spices and mustard.
- Use a disposable aluminum tray filled with water to keep the meat moist during cooking.
- Smoke the brisket at a low temperature for 4-6 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the brisket rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.
Conclusion
Traeger corned beef is a delicious twist on a classic dish that is sure to impress your guests. With the help of your Traeger grill, you can easily infuse your corned beef with a smoky flavor that will take your taste buds to the next level. Just remember to soak your brisket before cooking, season it with your favorite spices, and smoke it at a low temperature for several hours.
Once you try Traeger corned beef, you may never want to go back to traditional boiled corned beef again. It is a flavorful and impressive dish that is perfect for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you want to impress your guests with your grilling skills.
FAQs
- Can I use any type of Traeger grill to cook corned beef?
Yes, you can use any type of Traeger grill to cook corned beef. Just make sure to preheat the grill and keep the temperature low and consistent.
- How long does it take to smoke a Traeger corned beef?
It typically takes 4-6 hours to smoke a Traeger corned beef, but the exact time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the brisket.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with Traeger corned beef?
Some popular side dishes to serve with Traeger corned beef include mashed potatoes, cabbage, carrots, and roasted root vegetables.
- Can I cook Traeger corned beef in advance?
Yes, you can cook Traeger corned beef in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
- How can I tell when my Traeger corned beef is done?
You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your Traeger corned beef. It should reach 165°F before it is considered safe to eat. Additionally, the meat should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork.