St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning an Irish feast. If you’re a traditionalist, that probably includes corned beef and cabbage.
There are several ways cook the Irish staple, from this slow cooker corned beef and cabbage recipe to this Instant Pot corned beef, and even the classic boiling and roasting method. And like many holiday meals, the best part might just be enjoying the leftovers the next day. (Be sure to check out these leftover corned beef recipes!) To make sure your corned beef stays just as flavorful and juicy as it was the first time around, follow these simple storage and reheating tips.
How to Reheat Corned Beef Without Drying It Out
Let’s get one thing out of the way—no matter what you do, don’t try to reheat leftover corned beef in the microwave. Yes, it’s fast and convenient, but it’s also a surefire way to completely dry out the meat.
Instead, use the oven! Start by letting your refrigerated leftovers sit at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes. If you put cold meat in a hot oven, it’s more likely to toughen up as it reheats, so, it’s a good idea to knock the chill off before warming.
Place the corned beef in a baking dish with a little bit of liquid (water, beef broth, or the leftover cooking liquid), cover tightly with aluminum foil, and place in a 325-degree Fahrenheit oven and cook until the meat is warmed through. The cook time will vary depending on whether your beef is sliced or whole, but it’s a good idea to check it after 10 minutes.
How to Store Leftover Corned Beef
To ensure that your precious leftover corned beef doesn’t go to waste, it’s important to store it properly. Once cooked, let the corned beef cool at room temperature before transferring it to a large airtight container. Add some of the cooking liquid to the container, then cover and seal it tightly and store in the refrigerator. Be sure to label and date the container so there’s no question as to what it is or if it is still safe to consume.
Alternatively, you can freeze it in an airtight container or freezer-safe, zip-top bag for up to two months. Similarly, you should add some of the cooking liquid to the bag to help the meat retain some of its moisture. Let the beef thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
How Long Does Corned Beef Stay Good in the Fridge?
If you follow proper storage methods, leftover corned beef will last for up to five days in the refrigerator. However, if it develops a rancid odor or an off-color appearance, it’s a good idea to discard it sooner.
