Master the art of cooking with this ingenious "Perfect Corned Beef from the Microwave" recipe, a modern twist on a beloved classic. In just over an hour, you’ll transform a 2-pound corned beef brisket into a tender, flavorful masterpiece, using the convenience of your microwave. Infused with aromatic pickling spices, a touch of sweet brown sugar, and steamed to perfection in water, this recipe delivers all the rich, savory goodness with minimal effort. Ideal for small kitchens or busy days, this method ensures juicy, evenly cooked results while preserving the traditional flavors you love. Serve it up with classic sides like cabbage, carrots, or potatoes for a comforting, satisfying meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. Whether you're short on time or just looking for a fuss-free approach, this microwave corned beef recipe is your ultimate time-saving solution.
Trim excess fat from the corned beef brisket, if desired, but leave a thin layer for flavor and moisture.
Place the corned beef and pickling spice in a large, microwave-safe bowl with a fitted lid. Ensure the bowl can hold at least twice the volume of the ingredients to prevent spillage.
Add water and brown sugar to the bowl, ensuring the brisket is partly submerged. The water will help create steam for cooking.
Cover the bowl tightly with its lid or microwave-safe plastic wrap. If using plastic wrap, poke a few small holes for venting.
Microwave on HIGH power for 10 minutes to kickstart the cooking process.
Reduce the microwave setting to MEDIUM power, and continue cooking for approximately 50 minutes, turning the brisket over halfway through for even cooking.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—it should read at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Allow the corned beef to rest in the covered bowl for 10 minutes to retain juices.
Slice the corned beef against the grain for maximum tenderness and serve with your favorite sides, such as steamed cabbage, potatoes, or carrots.
Calories |
2193 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 130.4 g | 167% | |
| Saturated Fat | 64.8 g | 324% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 889 mg | 296% | |
| Sodium | 7960 mg | 346% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 37.6 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.3 g | 5% | |
| Total Sugars | 33.7 g | ||
| Protein | 227.4 g | 455% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 62 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 18.3 mg | 102% | |
| Potassium | 36 mg | 1% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.