Corned beef and cabbage is a classic dish, especially around St. Patrick’s Day, known for its hearty and comforting flavors. But while the corned beef and cabbage are undoubtedly the stars of the meal, finding the perfect side dishes can elevate your dining experience from good to outstanding. If you’re wondering What To Serve With Corned Beef And Cabbage, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore a variety of side dishes that complement this traditional main course, ensuring a balanced and flavorful meal.
Close-up of sliced corned beef showcasing its texture and color, ideal for highlighting the main dish
Classic Vegetable Sides: Embracing Tradition
When it comes to side dishes for corned beef and cabbage, vegetables are a natural and essential pairing. The original dish itself includes cabbage, and often potatoes and carrots, so expanding on these or offering variations is a great starting point.
Root Vegetables: Hearty and Earthy
Root vegetables like potatoes and carrots are commonly cooked alongside corned beef, absorbing the savory flavors of the meat and broth.
- Potatoes: Consider different potato preparations. Instead of simply boiling potatoes, try roasted potatoes for a crispy exterior and fluffy interior. Garlic roasted potatoes or roasted potatoes with herbs like rosemary and thyme can add an extra layer of flavor. Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting contrast to the texture of the corned beef.
- Carrots: Glazed carrots can bring a touch of sweetness to the meal. Honey-glazed or maple-glazed carrots are delicious options. For a savory twist, consider roasted carrots with balsamic vinegar.
- Parsnips: Often overlooked, parsnips are a fantastic root vegetable that pairs beautifully with corned beef. Roasted parsnips become sweet and caramelized, offering a unique flavor dimension.
Close-up of boiled cabbage and carrots, showcasing the traditional vegetable sides for corned beef
Green Vegetables: Adding Freshness and Balance
To balance the richness of corned beef, incorporating fresh green vegetables is a wonderful idea.
- Green Beans: Sautéed green beans with garlic and almonds or steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon offer a light and crisp side.
- Asparagus: Roasted asparagus with parmesan cheese or grilled asparagus are elegant and flavorful choices.
- Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts, especially when caramelized or tossed with bacon, can be a surprisingly delicious accompaniment.
- Peas: Simple buttered peas or peas with mint provide a touch of sweetness and freshness.
Starchy Sides: Comforting and Satisfying
For a truly hearty meal, starchy sides are excellent additions to corned beef and cabbage.
- Irish Soda Bread: A classic Irish bread, soda bread is dense and slightly crumbly, perfect for soaking up the juices from the corned beef. Its slightly tangy flavor complements the savory meat.
- Colcannon: This traditional Irish dish of mashed potatoes with cabbage or kale is a natural partner for corned beef. It’s creamy, comforting, and full of flavor.
- Boxty: Irish potato pancakes, or boxty, offer a different potato texture and are delicious served alongside corned beef.
- Polenta or Grits: Creamy polenta or grits can be a less traditional but equally satisfying starchy side, especially if topped with cheese or herbs.
Overhead view of corned beef with cabbage, potatoes, and carrots, presenting the complete traditional meal
Sauces and Condiments: Enhancing Flavor
Sauces and condiments are key to enhancing the flavors of corned beef and cabbage.
- Mustard: Grainy mustard or Dijon mustard provides a sharp and tangy contrast to the richness of the beef.
- Horseradish Sauce: Creamy horseradish sauce adds a spicy kick that cuts through the fat and enhances the savory notes.
- Red Wine Vinegar: A simple drizzle of red wine vinegar over the sliced corned beef and vegetables brightens the flavors and adds acidity.
- Parsley Sauce: A traditional parsley sauce, made with white sauce and fresh parsley, is a classic accompaniment to corned beef in some regions.
- Gravy: While not traditionally served with corned beef and cabbage, a light beef gravy can add extra richness for those who prefer it.
Salads: Adding Freshness and Acidity
A fresh salad can provide a welcome contrast to the heavy and savory flavors of corned beef and cabbage.
- Green Salad with Vinaigrette: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides freshness and acidity to balance the meal.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw, or a lighter vinegar-based coleslaw, can offer a cool and crunchy contrast.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with dill and vinegar is a light and palate-cleansing option.
Beyond the Sides: Consider Appetizers and Desserts
To round out your meal, consider appetizers and desserts that complement the Irish theme or the hearty nature of the main course.
- Appetizers: Irish cheese and crackers, smoked salmon on brown bread, or a simple green salad can start the meal.
- Desserts: Apple pie, bread pudding, or a Guinness chocolate cake are comforting and satisfying desserts that work well after a hearty meal of corned beef and cabbage.
Slices of tender corned beef, emphasizing the appetizing presentation of the cooked meat
Creating Your Perfect Corned Beef and Cabbage Meal
Ultimately, what to serve with corned beef and cabbage depends on your personal preferences and the occasion. Whether you stick to classic vegetable sides and Irish soda bread, or venture out with some fresh salads and flavorful sauces, the goal is to create a balanced and delicious meal. Experiment with different combinations to discover your family’s favorite pairings and make your corned beef and cabbage dinner truly special. Enjoy!
