Question 1

What is it?

Accepted Answer

Let's start with the beef. Corned beef originates from the UK where salt was used to cure and preserve beef. The salt crystals used were very large. Around the size of corn kernels, which lead to the name. Corned beef has been a popular food in Britain since the 17th century. It was particularly prevalent throughout both World Wars, owing to the rationing system and scarcity of fresh meat. 

Just don't get me started on those tins - those notorious stubborn cans with the weird keys (surely packaging design has come on in the last 30+ years? Well, not in the world of corned beef!)

A hash is a dish consisting of chopped potatoes, onion, meat and sometimes other vegetables. It is typically fried. The word 'hash' comes from the French hacher, which means 'to chop'.

So, what is corned beef hash? Well, it's a dish made of potatoes, onions and corned beef that is usually fried in a pan. However, this slow cooker version means that you can set it and forget it. Simply add all the ingredients to your slow cooker in the morning and let it do its thing while you get on with your day.

When it's time to eat, you'll have a hearty and filling meal that everyone will love. Plus it can be enjoyed at pretty much any meal of the day, breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner!

Question 2

Recipe Variations

Accepted Answer

This recipe is for a basic corned slow cooker beef hash, so you can really customise it to your needs. Why not try adding extra diced veg such as:
•	Carrots
•	Cabbage
•	Leeks
•	Parsnips
•	Cauliflower

You can also jazz up plain hash with the addition of different flavours. You could add a sprinkle of chilli flakes or paprika for a spicy spin. Or how about a smattering of cheese on the top? Creamy cheddar or even a pungent blue cheese are great options to explore.

If you want a crispy topping on the hash, you can transfer it to an oven-proof dish before serving and then place it under the grill/broiler for around 5 minutes.

Question 3

What can I serve it with?

Accepted Answer

There are a few different schools of thought when it comes to the perfect serving of corned beef hash. Some say that the best way to enjoy this dish is with a fried or poached egg on top, while others believe that a dollop of baked beans and a side of toast is the way to go. You could also add a side of vegetables such as roasted tenderstem broccoli.

If you are going down the egg route, then you can even cook them directly in the slow cooker. Make sure you have stirred everything together and then make a well for each egg in the hash. Carefully pour in the eggs (it's easier to crack them individually into a mug first) and then replace the lid. After around 12-15 minutes you'll have beautifully cooked eggs nestled in the dish.

Finally, you can absolutely serve this 'as is'. That's how we used to eat it when I was a child. With the obligatory bottle of L&P Worcestershire sauce on the table for liberally shaking over the top.

Question 4

What type of potatoes should I use?

Accepted Answer

Potatoes fall into two main categories and, of course, there is a spectrum between them. These categories are floury and waxy. Floury potatoes are perfect for the tender, fluffy insides of roast potatoes. Waxy potatoes, on the other hand, are ideal for dishes like a salad, where you want a firmer result.

Which you use for this recipe is completely a matter of preference. Both varieties will work well: floury varieties, such as Maris Piper or Russet, will tend to break up more in the dish but will melt in your mouth. Waxy varieties, such as new potatoes or Charlotte, will tend to hold their shape better but be firmer.

A good middle ground is Desiree potatoes in the UK, or Yukon Gold if you are in the US.

Question 5

Is American corned beef different to UK corned beef?

Accepted Answer

Kind of. In the UK we only refer to the minced, salted and then tinned beef as corned beef. If it's not tinned, then we would call it 'salt beef'. In the US both the tinned and non-tinned varieties would be called 'corned beef'. So, if you find a corned beef hash on the menu in America, what you'll likely get is a plate of salt beef mixed in with potatoes.

I have to say though, salt beef looks an awful lot better than tinned corned beef. Making this dish look appetising may be one of the biggest challenges I've had on this blog!

Another thing to bear in mind is that, in the US, corned beef is associated with Irish cuisine and is often served on St Patrick's day. In reality, it is simply not a popular ingredient in Ireland. Ireland's relationship with corned beef is actually because it historically farmed a lot of cattle to export beef to mainland Britain.

Question 6

How long does it keep?

Accepted Answer

Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the crispest results, although the microwave works perfectly well too!

You can also freeze hash for up to 3 months. Defrost thoroughly before reheating.

Slow Cooker Corned Beef Hash

Description

Ingredients

Instructions

Notes

Nutrition