How To Cut Cabbage Wedges For Corned Beef: Answered

Last Updated on September 14, 2024 by Shari Mason

Mixing **corned beef** with neatly sliced *cabbage wedges* feels like finding a buried treasure.

As a seasoned home cook, I’ve honed my technique for cutting cabbage wedges to complement this classic dish.

Drawing from my experience in the kitchen, I will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to cut cabbage wedges for corned beef and bring it to new heights.

By the end of this article, you can confidently cut cabbage wedges for your next corned beef meal. Let’s dive in!

5 Steps to Cut Cabbage Wedges for Corned Beef

1. Remove Outer Leaves

The first thing I usually do before cutting the cabbage is to remove the outer leaves. These leaves are usually the dried ones that have become brown and dirty or the ones that are exposed to air and any other bacteria carried by air that can be bad for your health.

The outer leaves can be washed and cooked too, but because these are the older leaves, it may take time to soften them, thus creating longer cooking time.

“A recipe has no soul. You, as the cook, must bring soul to the recipe.”

– Thomas Keller, Michelin Star Chef

2. Wash the Whole Cabbage

After peeling the outer leaves of the cabbage, wash the whole of it. I usually hold the whole cabbage under running water and ensure that every corner of the cabbage is clean of any dirt.

But others aren’t contented with washing it with running water. Some take their time to boil water and submerge the cabbage in it for two to three seconds. This is to ensure that the hot bath removes all the bacteria.

3. Cut the Cabbage Head Into Half

After making sure the whole cabbage is clean, place it on the chopping board with its stem under and side down. You shouldn’t cut out the stem of the cabbage because you need the leaves to stay intact for your corned beef.

Cabbage wedges are commonly used in corned beef. It is not only appetizing to look at but also complements the dish.

4. Cut the Halves Into Quarters

The next step is to cut the halves into quarters. Place each of the cabbage halves on the chopping board with the flat side down and cut it in the middle. You now have four pieces of quarter sizes cabbage.

Then, locate the core of the cabbage and remove it. This part of the cabbage is the usual vegetable waste because it is not needed for cooking and is often removed. But what kind of bread goes with cabbage and corned beef?

5. Cut Into Eighths (If Desired)

If you prefer your cabbage leaves to be smaller, you can cut them again into eighths. This is ideal if you have kids at home because more minor cuts of cabbage leaves are easy for them to chew.

Ensure you have followed all the steps above before putting it into the corned beef to avoid contamination.

Should You Remove the Core of the Cabbage?

Yes, the core of the cabbage should be removed because this part is not for eating with corned beef. It is thicker, harder to chew, and not applicable for mixing with any dish.

But there are other ways to prepare the core so it will be used wisely. This part of the cabbage can be sliced into bits and mixed with coleslaw. You now have a crunchy twist with your treat.

Corned Beef & Cabbage Origins

Based on my research, it is known widely that corned beef and cabbage is a traditional Irish food because it is primarily served at Irish homes during St. Patrick’s Day.

But contrary to what everyone believes, corned beef and cabbage aren’t an Irish delicacy at all.

Corned beef was introduced to Ireland by the British Empire. Because corned beef tasted like bacon, made of pork—the preferred meat in Ireland, they accepted the delicacy and consumed it widely.

The Irish then brought corned beef to the US, and to adapt to the American taste, they added cabbages and potatoes. [1] But how do you keep corned beef warm after cooking?

Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe

Corned Beef and Cabbage Recipe

Total Time: 2 hours and 30 mins

Ingredients: 

• 3 lbs corned beef brisket with spice packet
• 10 pcs small red potatoes
• 5 pcs medium carrots
• 1 large head cabbage

Instructions:

Place the corned beef in the Dutch oven, add the spice packet, then bring to a boil. Simmer until fork-tender. Cut the potatoes in half, peel and cut carrots, then cut the cabbage into wedges. 

Add potatoes and carrots and let it cook for 10 minutes. Add cabbage wedges and let it cook. Remove the meat and let it rest before slicing. 

Serving: 6

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Cutting cabbage into wedges may seem like a simple task, but doing it properly can make all the difference in your dish. Following these steps will help you achieve perfect wedges every time.

Ensure it is thoroughly cleaned and cut appropriately according to the cooking instructions so you and your family can enjoy the flavorful dish with the most affordable healthy vegetable.

Enjoy freshly cut cabbage wedges in your next meal and impress your family and friends with your newfound skills. Remember that mastering this simple technique can elevate your culinary prowess. So, embrace the art of cabbage cutting, and let it enhance your corned beef experience to new heights. Bon appétit!

References:

1. https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2013/03/15/how-corned-beef-and-cabbage-became-holiday-staple 
2. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/is-corned-beef-healthy#nutrients