Corned beef is a staple in many cuisines, particularly in the United States and the United Kingdom. However, the type of corned beef commonly found in the UK is often different from the American version. American corned beef is known for its tender and flavorful texture, which is achieved through a unique curing process. If you’re a fan of American corned beef and live in the UK, you might be wondering if you can get your hands on this delicious product.
What is American Corned Beef?
American corned beef is a type of cured beef that is made from the flat cut of beef brisket. The curing process involves soaking the beef in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices, which gives it a distinctive flavor and texture. The beef is then cooked in a pressure cooker or steamer to make it tender and juicy. American corned beef is often sliced thinly and served in sandwiches, salads, or as a main course.
The Difference Between American and UK Corned Beef
While both American and UK corned beef are made from beef, there are some key differences between the two. UK corned beef is often made from a different cut of beef, such as the round or the chuck, and is cured in a different way. UK corned beef is often more dense and has a coarser texture than American corned beef. Additionally, UK corned beef may contain added preservatives and flavorings, which can affect its taste and texture.
Where to Find American Corned Beef in the UK
If you’re looking for American corned beef in the UK, there are a few options to consider. Some specialty food stores and online retailers carry American corned beef, which can be shipped directly to your doorstep. You can also try checking with local butcher shops or delis, which may carry American-style corned beef.
Online Retailers
There are several online retailers that carry American corned beef in the UK. Some popular options include:
- American Soda: This online retailer specializes in American food products, including corned beef. They offer a range of different brands and styles, including thinly sliced corned beef and corned beef hash.
- The American Food Store: This online retailer carries a wide range of American food products, including corned beef. They offer a variety of different brands and styles, including kosher-style corned beef and corned beef sandwiches.
Specialty Food Stores
If you prefer to shop in person, there are several specialty food stores in the UK that carry American corned beef. Some popular options include:
- Partridges: This London-based food store specializes in gourmet and specialty foods, including American corned beef. They offer a range of different brands and styles, including thinly sliced corned beef and corned beef hash.
- The Food Hall: This Manchester-based food store carries a wide range of specialty foods, including American corned beef. They offer a variety of different brands and styles, including kosher-style corned beef and corned beef sandwiches.
How to Make Your Own American Corned Beef in the UK
If you can’t find American corned beef in stores, you can try making your own at home. This can be a fun and rewarding process, and allows you to customize the flavor and texture to your liking.
Ingredients and Equipment
To make American corned beef at home, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
| Ingredients: | Equipment: |
|---|---|
| 1 lb beef brisket | Large pot or container |
| 1 cup kosher salt | Curing container or bag |
| 1/2 cup brown sugar | Meat thermometer |
| 1/4 cup pink curing salt | Pressure cooker or steamer |
| 1/4 cup black pepper | Slicing machine (optional) |
| 1/4 cup coriander seeds | |
| 1/4 cup mustard seeds |
Instructions
To make American corned beef at home, follow these steps:
- In a large pot or container, combine the kosher salt, brown sugar, pink curing salt, black pepper, coriander seeds, and mustard seeds. Stir until the sugar and salt are dissolved.
- Add the beef brisket to the curing mixture, making sure that it is completely submerged. Cover the container or bag and refrigerate for at least 5 days, or up to 10 days.
- After the curing process is complete, remove the beef from the curing mixture and rinse it under cold running water. Pat the beef dry with paper towels.
- Place the beef in a pressure cooker or steamer and cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). This should take about 1-2 hours, depending on the size and thickness of the beef.
- Once the beef is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Slice the beef thinly against the grain, using a slicing machine if desired.
Conclusion
American corned beef is a delicious and flavorful product that can be difficult to find in the UK. However, with a little creativity and resourcefulness, you can find or make your own American corned beef at home. Whether you prefer to shop online or in person, or try making your own corned beef from scratch, there are many options available to you. So why not give American corned beef a try, and experience the rich and tangy flavor of this classic American dish?
Is American Corned Beef Available in the UK?
American corned beef is indeed available in the UK, although it may not be as widely available as in the US. Some specialty stores, online retailers, and certain supermarkets carry American-style corned beef. However, the selection may be limited compared to what you’d find in the US.
If you’re having trouble finding American corned beef in stores, you can also try looking for it online. Many online retailers specialize in importing American products, including corned beef. You can also check with local butcher shops or delis to see if they carry or can order American-style corned beef for you.
What’s the Difference Between American and British Corned Beef?
American corned beef is typically made from thinly sliced beef brisket or round that’s been cured in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices. The curing process gives the beef a distinctive flavor and texture. British corned beef, on the other hand, is often made from a coarser cut of beef and may be canned or packaged in a different way.
The flavor and texture of American corned beef are often described as more tender and flavorful than British corned beef. American corned beef is also often sliced more thinly, making it easier to use in sandwiches and other dishes. If you’re looking for a more authentic American corned beef experience, you may want to seek out American-style corned beef specifically.
Can I Find American Corned Beef in UK Supermarkets?
Some UK supermarkets carry American-style corned beef, although the selection may be limited. You may be able to find it in the international or specialty foods section of larger supermarkets. However, it’s not always a guarantee that you’ll be able to find it in stores.
If you’re having trouble finding American corned beef in supermarkets, you can also try checking with specialty stores or online retailers. Some stores specialize in importing American products, including corned beef. You can also try checking with local butcher shops or delis to see if they carry or can order American-style corned beef for you.
How Do I Cook American Corned Beef?
American corned beef can be cooked in a variety of ways, depending on your personal preference. One popular method is to boil or steam the corned beef until it’s tender, then slice it thinly and serve it on rye bread with mustard and pickles. You can also cook corned beef in a slow cooker or oven for a more hands-off approach.
Regardless of the cooking method, it’s generally recommended to cook the corned beef until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C). This will help ensure that the beef is tender and safe to eat. You can also add flavorings like onions, garlic, and spices to the cooking liquid for added flavor.
Can I Use British Corned Beef as a Substitute?
While British corned beef can be used as a substitute in some recipes, it’s not always the best option. British corned beef is often coarser and may have a different flavor profile than American corned beef. If you’re looking for a more authentic American corned beef experience, it’s worth seeking out American-style corned beef specifically.
That being said, if you can’t find American corned beef, British corned beef can be used as a substitute in a pinch. Just be aware that the flavor and texture may be slightly different. You can also try adding additional seasonings or spices to the British corned beef to give it a more American flavor.
Is American Corned Beef More Expensive Than British Corned Beef?
American corned beef can be more expensive than British corned beef, especially if you’re buying it from a specialty store or online retailer. However, the price difference may not be dramatic, and many people find that the unique flavor and texture of American corned beef are worth the extra cost.
If you’re on a budget, you may want to consider buying American corned beef in bulk or looking for sales and discounts. You can also try shopping at different stores or online retailers to compare prices and find the best deal.
Can I Make My Own American-Style Corned Beef at Home?
Yes, you can make your own American-style corned beef at home. This involves curing the beef in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices, then cooking it until it’s tender. Making your own corned beef can be a fun and rewarding process, and it allows you to control the flavor and texture of the final product.
To make American-style corned beef at home, you’ll need to start with a suitable cut of beef, such as a beef brisket or round. You’ll also need to mix together a curing blend of salt, sugar, and spices, and apply it to the beef. After several days or weeks of curing, you can cook the beef and slice it thinly for use in sandwiches and other dishes.