How To Make Corned Beef Brine For Smoking At Home

Discover the ultimate corned beef brine recipe for smoking! Perfectly seasoned and easy to follow, this recipe delivers tender, flavorful results every time.

Why you will love this recipe

Looking for a foolproof way to prepare flavorful, tender corned beef? Our corned beef brine recipe for smoking is the perfect solution! This recipe combines rich spices, a touch of sweetness, and a slow-smoking process to create mouthwatering results that stand out at any table. Whether you’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, hosting a backyard BBQ, or simply craving a classic deli-style dish, this recipe delivers. With easy-to-follow steps and accessible ingredients, it’s ideal for both beginners and seasoned cooks. Elevate your smoked meats game and impress family and friends with this versatile, homemade corned beef brine recipe.

At WikiDishes, we believe food is more than just sustenance—it’s a connection to tradition, family, and celebration. This corned beef brine recipe for smoking brings back memories of bustling family gatherings where the aroma of slow-smoked meats filled the air, sparking conversations and laughter. Rooted in rich culinary heritage, this recipe transforms a humble cut of beef into something extraordinary, blending classic flavors with a modern smoky twist. Whether it’s a cherished holiday tradition or a weekend treat, this recipe has a way of bringing people together, reminding us that the best meals are the ones shared with loved ones.

How to Make Corned Beef Brine for Smoking at Home

Recipe by WikiDishesCourse: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

hours

Calories

250

kcal

Ingredients

For the Brine
1 gallon water
1 cup kosher salt
½ cup brown sugar
3 tablespoons pink curing salt (Prague Powder #1)
2 tablespoons pickling spice
4 garlic cloves, smashed
1 tablespoon black peppercorns
4 bay leaves
For the Corned Beef
5 pound brisket or beef round (trimmed)
Additional pickling spice for cooking (optional)

Directions

Prepare the Brine: In a large stockpot, combine water, kosher salt, brown sugar, pink curing salt, pickling spice, garlic, black peppercorns, and bay leaves. Heat the mixture over medium until the salt and sugar are fully dissolved. Take it off the heat and allow the brine to cool until it reaches room temperature.
Brine the Beef: Place the brisket in a non-reactive container (glass or food-grade plastic). Cover the beef completely with the cooled brine, making sure it is entirely immersed. Cover and refrigerate for 5–7 days. Turn the meat daily to ensure even brining.
Prepare for Smoking: After brining, remove the beef and rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. Pat dry with paper towels and let rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Smoke the Corned Beef: Preheat your smoker to 250°F. Place the corned beef on the smoker grates and cook for 6–8 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
Rest and Slice: Remove the smoked beef from the smoker and tent loosely with foil. Allow it to rest for 20 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Serve: Serve the smoked corned beef with mustard, sauerkraut, or as part of a Reuben sandwich.

Notes

Substitutions: You can use apple cider vinegar in the brine for a tangier flavor.
Variations: Add cloves, cinnamon sticks, or juniper berries to the brine for a more robust spice profile.
Storage: Keep leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for a maximum of 5 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestion: Pair with roasted potatoes or rye bread for a classic meal.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Serving Size: 4 oz (approximately 113g)

Calories: 250

Macronutrients:

Total Fat

15g

19%

Saturated Fat

30%

Trans Fat

–

Cholesterol

70mg

23%

Sodium

950mg

41%

Total Carbohydrate

Sugars

–

Protein

20g

40%

Key Vitamins and Minerals:

Iron

2.7mg

15%

Vitamin B12

2.4mcg

100%

Zinc

3.5mg

25%

Potassium

320mg

Additional Notes

This smoked corned beef recipe is packed with protein, making it a satisfying option for energy and muscle repair. The high sodium content is essential for the curing process but can be balanced with low-sodium sides. Iron and Vitamin B12 support red blood cell production, while zinc aids in boosting the immune system. Serve with roasted vegetables or rye bread for a complete and nutritious meal.

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

Please note: The nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used.

FAQ

1. Is it possible to substitute a different cut of beef in this recipe?

Yes! While brisket is traditional, beef round or short ribs also work well for corned beef brining. Ensure the cut has some fat for added flavor.

2. What is pink curing salt, and is it necessary?

Pink curing salt (Prague Powder #1) is used for curing meats and gives corned beef its signature pink color and flavor. It also prevents bacterial growth. You can make the recipe without it, but the meat will lose its color and have a different taste.

3. Do I need a smoker, or can I cook this in the oven?

If you don’t have a smoker, you can cook the corned beef in the oven at 250°F. Add liquid (like water or beef broth) to a roasting pan, cover it tightly with foil, and bake until tender.

4. How long should the beef stay in the brine?

For the best flavor, let the beef brine for 5–7 days. Turning the meat daily ensures even seasoning throughout.

5. Can I reuse the brine?

We don’t recommend reusing the brine for food safety reasons. It’s best to discard it after use.

6. Why is my smoked corned beef tough?

Corned beef can become tough if it’s not cooked long enough. Make sure to cook it low and slow until the internal temperature reaches 195°F for tender results.

Conclusion

We hope you’re as excited as we are to try this corned beef brine recipe for smoking! It’s a flavorful, satisfying way to elevate your cooking and bring loved ones together. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to impress. If you enjoyed it, share it with your friends and family on social media—they’ll thank you for it! Don’t forget to follow us on our social media platforms for more delicious recipes, cooking tips, and inspiration. Let’s keep the kitchen creativity flowing—happy cooking, and see you soon!