Corned beef is a beloved dish that has made its way into the hearts and stomachs of people all over the world.
Whether you’re enjoying it on St. Patrick’s Day or any other day of the year, there’s no denying the comfort and satisfaction that comes with a perfectly cooked corned beef.
But what about the side dishes?
While corned beef is certainly delicious on its own, the right sides can take it to the next level.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best side dishes to serve with corned beef, from classic Irish fare to more unexpected options.
So grab a fork and get ready to dig in!
What Side Dishes Go With Corned Beef?
When it comes to choosing the perfect side dishes to serve with corned beef, there are plenty of options to consider. Here are some of our top picks:
1. Fried Sauerkraut: This tangy and crispy side dish is a classic pairing with corned beef. The acidity of the sauerkraut helps to cut through the richness of the meat, while the fried texture adds a satisfying crunch.
2. Rye Bread: Another classic Irish side dish, rye bread is a hearty and flavorful option that pairs perfectly with corned beef. Toast it up and slather on some butter for an extra indulgent treat.
3. Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory glazed carrots are a great way to add some color and nutrition to your corned beef meal. Plus, the sweetness of the glaze complements the saltiness of the meat.
4. Irish Potato Nachos: For a fun twist on traditional potato dishes, try making Irish potato nachos. Top thinly sliced potatoes with cheese, bacon, and green onions for a delicious and indulgent treat.
5. Peas with Mint and Spring Onion: This fresh and vibrant side dish is a great way to add some greenery to your plate. The mint and spring onion add a pop of flavor that pairs well with the rich flavor of the corned beef.
6. Cabbage Salad: If you’re looking for a lighter side dish option, try making a cabbage salad. Shred some cabbage and toss it with a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing and crunchy addition to your meal.
7. Herby Buttered Corn: Corn is always a crowd-pleaser, and this herby buttered version takes it up a notch. Toss cooked corn with butter, herbs, and garlic for a flavorful and comforting side dish.
8. Sweet Potato Hash: For breakfast or brunch, try serving your corned beef with sweet potato hash. This hearty and flavorful dish is made with diced sweet potatoes, onions, and peppers, all cooked up in a skillet until crispy and delicious.
Classic Irish Side Dishes
When it comes to serving corned beef, it’s hard to go wrong with classic Irish side dishes. Here are a few traditional options that are sure to please:
1. Colcannon: This creamy and comforting dish is made with mashed potatoes, cabbage or kale, and plenty of butter and cream. It’s the perfect accompaniment to corned beef, adding some extra richness and flavor to the meal.
2. Fried Cabbage with Bacon: Another classic Irish side dish, fried cabbage with bacon is a simple but delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. The bacon adds plenty of smoky flavor, while the cabbage turns silky and tender.
3. Irish Soda Bread: No meal is complete without bread, and Irish soda bread is a perfect option for serving with corned beef. This hearty bread is made with baking soda instead of yeast, giving it a unique texture and flavor.
4. Champ: Similar to colcannon, champ is a dish made with mashed potatoes and scallions or green onions. It’s a simple but satisfying side dish that pairs well with corned beef.
5. Boxty: This traditional Irish potato pancake is made with grated potatoes, flour, and milk or buttermilk. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a perfect complement to the tender corned beef.
Vegetable Sides To Complement Corned Beef
When it comes to vegetable sides to complement corned beef, there are many delicious options to choose from. Here are some of our favorites:
1. Roasted Root Vegetables: Roasting root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and turnips brings out their natural sweetness and creates a deliciously crispy texture. These veggies are the perfect complement to a rich and savory corned beef.
2. Braised Cabbage: Cabbage is a classic side dish for corned beef, and braising it in a flavorful broth or beer only enhances its flavor. This side dish is easy to make and adds a nice touch of acidity to balance out the richness of the meat.
3. Green Beans with Bacon: Green beans are a healthy and flavorful option that pairs well with corned beef. Adding some crispy bacon bits to the dish takes it to the next level and adds a nice smoky flavor.
4. Sauteed Brussels Sprouts: Brussels sprouts are another great vegetable that pairs well with corned beef. Saute them in butter or olive oil until they’re crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, then season with salt and pepper for a simple yet delicious side dish.
5. Cauliflower Mash: If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, try making cauliflower mash instead. Simply steam or boil cauliflower until it’s soft, then mash it up with butter, cream, and seasonings for a creamy and satisfying side dish.
6. Creamed Spinach: Creamed spinach is a decadent and indulgent side dish that goes perfectly with corned beef. It’s rich and creamy, but also packed with nutrients from the spinach.
7. Grilled Asparagus: Asparagus is a great option if you’re looking for a light and healthy side dish to complement your corned beef. Grilling it brings out its natural sweetness and adds a nice smoky flavor.
No matter which vegetable sides you choose, they’re sure to add some color, nutrition, and delicious flavor to your corned beef meal.
Potato Options To Pair With Corned Beef
Potatoes are a classic side dish that pairs perfectly with corned beef. Here are some potato options to consider:
1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, mashed potatoes are a classic choice to serve with corned beef. Add some butter and milk for extra richness, or mix in some garlic or herbs for added flavor.
2. Roasted Red Potatoes: If you’re looking for a more substantial potato side dish, try roasting some red potatoes. Toss them with olive oil and your favorite seasonings, then roast in the oven until crispy and golden brown.
3. Potato Salad: For a cold side dish option, consider making potato salad. Boil some diced potatoes until tender, then mix with mayo, mustard, and your favorite herbs and spices.
4. Hash Browns: Crispy and delicious, hash browns are a great option for breakfast or brunch. Serve them alongside your corned beef for a hearty and satisfying meal.
5. Baked Potatoes: If you’re short on time, baked potatoes are a quick and easy option to serve with your corned beef. Top them with butter, cheese, sour cream, or any other toppings you like.
No matter which potato option you choose, they all pair well with the rich and savory flavor of corned beef.
Bread And Butter To Complete The Meal
No corned beef meal is complete without a side of bread and butter. While there are many types of bread that can be served with corned beef, rye bread is a classic choice that pairs well with the salty and spiced flavors of the meat. Toast it up and slather on some butter for an indulgent treat that will complement your meal perfectly. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try serving your corned beef with whole grain bread or sourdough for a tangy twist. Don’t forget to add a generous dollop of butter to your bread for an extra touch of richness and flavor. Whether you prefer a classic rye or something more adventurous, bread and butter are essential components of any corned beef meal.
Unexpected Side Dishes To Try With Corned Beef
While the classic side dishes for corned beef are always a safe bet, why not try something unexpected to mix things up? Here are some unique side dishes to try with your corned beef:
1. Colcannon: This Irish dish combines mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale, butter, and cream for a rich and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with corned beef.
2. Roasted Root Vegetables: Instead of boiled carrots and potatoes, try roasting them with olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a more intense flavor and crispy texture.
3. Pickled Red Onions: These tangy and colorful onions add a pop of flavor and acidity to your plate. Simply slice red onions and soak them in vinegar and sugar for a few hours before serving.
4. Creamy Horseradish Sauce: This zesty sauce is the perfect accompaniment to corned beef. Mix together sour cream, horseradish, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice for a delicious and creamy dip.
5. Irish Soda Bread: This dense and hearty bread is a staple in Irish cuisine and pairs perfectly with corned beef. Serve it warm with butter for a comforting side dish.
6. Braised Red Cabbage: This sweet and tangy side dish is made by braising red cabbage with apples, vinegar, and sugar until tender and flavorful.
7. Parsnip Puree: For a more elegant side dish, try making parsnip puree. Simply boil parsnips until tender, then blend them with cream, butter, and seasonings until smooth and creamy.
8. Guinness Glazed Carrots: Add some Irish flair to your glazed carrots by using Guinness beer as the base for the glaze. The rich and malty flavor of the beer pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the carrots.