When cooking corned beef, it is generally recommended to place it fat side up. The fat on the corned beef helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful as it cooks. By placing the fat side up, the melting fat will baste the meat, adding richness and tenderness to the final dish.
Placing the corned beef fat side up also allows the fat to render and caramelize, creating a delicious crust on top of the meat. This crust adds a depth of flavor and texture that enhances the overall eating experience.
To further enhance the flavor of the corned beef, it is often cooked with vegetables and pickling spice. The vegetables not only add flavor to the cooking liquid but also serve as a bed for the meat, elevating it slightly and preventing it from sticking to the bottom of the cooking vessel.
Adding enough water to almost cover the meat is important to ensure that it cooks evenly and stays moist throughout the cooking process. The amount of water needed can vary depending on the size of the corned beef and the size of the cooking vessel. It is best to use enough water to almost cover the meat, but not so much that it completely submerges it.
Cooking corned beef on high heat for approximately 4 1/4 hours (or 8 1/2 hours on low) will result in a tender and flavorful meat. Cooking times can vary depending on the size and thickness of the corned beef, so it is important to check for doneness by inserting a fork or meat thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
In my personal experience, I have found that cooking corned beef fat side up produces the best results. The fat helps to keep the meat moist and adds a delicious flavor to the final dish. I have also found that cooking the corned beef with vegetables and pickling spice adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.
To summarize, when cooking corned beef, it is recommended to place it fat side up. This allows the fat to render and baste the meat, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish. Cooking the corned beef with vegetables and pickling spice further enhances the flavor profile. It is important to add enough water to almost cover the meat and to cook it for the appropriate amount of time to ensure tenderness.