| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 3 hrs | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 485 | 25g | 6g | 46g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 37g | 2g | 24g | 0.98g |
There are a myriad of recipes that reflect the cultural tapestry of the world we inhabit, and it’s my passion to bring their flavors right to your table. One such recipe that has tickled my palate is the delectable Corned Beef with Raisin Sauce. Originating as a humble dish, this unique combination bears testament to the ingenuity and creativity of home cooks worldwide.
The Hodge Podge of Corned Beef with Raisin Sauce
Just like a performance waiting to unfurl on stage, Corned Beef with Raisin Sauce is filled with delightful twists and turns. The refreshing tanginess of apple cider vinegar and cloves meets the mellow sweetness of light brown sugar and raisins, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. It reminds me of how diverse cultures mingle in a city like New York, each lending its unique flavor to the mix, resulting in an exhilarating culinary experience. As a native New Yorker, nothing thrills me more!
Health Benefits and Pairings
Beyond its irresistible taste, Corned Beef with Raisin Sauce comes packed with health benefits. Loaded with proteins and essential vitamins, corned beef can be a great addition to a balanced diet. Not to forget, raisins are an excellent source of dietary fiber, antioxidants, and natural sweetness. Balance in flavor and health, indeed!
This dish parallels and pairs well with traditional meatloaf or a hearty Shepherd’s pie. The savory and sweet nuances of the Corned Beef with Raisin Sauce shine when coupled with such robust dishes. You can try Beef Bourguignon or Beef Wellington for a more upscale dining experience.
Making it Your Own
What I genuinely love about this recipe is, like a classic theater play, it lends itself to improvisation. The vegetable oil can be swapped out for olive oil for an extra punch of flavor. Want a little more spice? Feel free to add a dash of cayenne or your favorite hot sauce. Each modification adds a novel element, making it a personal and intimate culinary experience, akin to the warmth of home, or a vibrant theater performance. Take the stage and let your creation unfold with Corned Beef with Raisin Sauce.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds corned beef
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup raisins
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/8 cup water
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 tablespoons butter
Method
Step One
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the corned beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned on all sides and the onion is softened. Add 1 cup of water and black pepper to the pot, bring to a simmer. Cover, reduce heat to low, and cook for about 2-3 hours or until beef is tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step Two
In a saucepan, combine the raisins, light brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir over medium heat until the sugar is completely dissolved. Adjust the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes.
Step Three
In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 1/8 cup of water. Stir until the cornstarch is completely dissolved, and then add this to the raisin mixture. Continuous stirring is necessary at this point to avoid lumps from forming.
Step Four
Add in the cinnamon and ground cloves, stirring well to incorporate into the sauce. Continue cooking over low heat for about 10 minutes or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Step Five
Remove the saucepan from heat and add in the butter. Stir until the butter is completely melted and the sauce has a glossy finish.
Step Six
Slice the corned beef and serve with a generous amount of raisin sauce. Enjoy your Corned Beef with Raisin Sauce while it’s hot for the best taste.
