I am beginning to be a little more open to enjoying culinary traditions that are foreign to me. With exception of Thanksgiving turkey and Fourth of July BBQ, I never really cook special dishes on holidays; however, I wanted to broaden my horizon this year and give corned beef a try for the first time, to celebrate the St. Patrick’s Day!

I found several corned beef and cabbage recipes on the Internet. Some recipes instruct that you bake the brisket in the oven while the others tell you to boil it in water. I went with the latter and boiled the meat for about four hours before adding onions, carrots, and half of a medium-size cabbage into the pot. I had no idea until my fiancée told me at dinnertime that I am supposed to serve the dish with no liquid. I totally thought that I was to serve the dish like a stew or a Pot Au Feu!  I am definitely still learning!

I was happy with the way the dish turned out, especially it being my first attempt. The corned beef was cooked with perfect saltiness and the melt-in-your-mouth vegetables made the dish very luxurious – even if it only cost less than $10 for five people! The baked red potatoes that I seasoned with sea salt, pepper, and Herb of Provence, provided the nice starch to the meal.

I hope everyone had a safe and wonderful St. Patty’s Day! Now, go kiss your love ones and celebrate!