Want to know the secret to corned beef that actually tastes like something special? It’s all about the corned beef seasoning. Forget that tiny spice packet taped to your brisket—making your own blend is a total game changer! This easy homemade corned beef seasoning is packed with big flavors, so every slice of brisket is boldly spiced, aromatic, and way more interesting than anything you’d get from the store.
Why You’ll Love This Corned Beef Seasoning
- Way more flavor: Toasting and blending your own spices brings out so much more aroma than a pre-mixed packet.
- Customizable: Add a little heat, extra herbs, or even a hint of citrus if you’re feeling wild.
- Easy to make: It comes together in minutes and makes enough for at least two big briskets.
- Perfect for any cooking method: Use it in the oven, slow cooker, pressure cooker, or even on the grill.
What Spices Are in Corned Beef Seasoning?
Most store packets are just a tiny blend of pickling spices. This homemade blend takes it up a notch:
- Mustard Seeds: Yellow or brown, or a combo.
- Black Peppercorns: For a punch of heat.
- Coriander Seeds: Fresh and citrusy.
- Allspice Berries: Deep, warm flavor.
- Cardamom Seeds (or pods): Sweet and aromatic.
- Celery Seeds: Earthy and classic.
- Whole Cloves: Sweet spice note.
- Red Pepper Flakes: For a subtle kick.
- Ground Ginger: Bright and warming.
- Bay Leaves: Herbal and old-school.
For precise amounts, check the recipe card at the end of the post.
Ingredient Swaps & Tips
- Add dill seeds: For extra pickling vibes.
- Go smokier: Toast your spices a bit longer for a deeper flavor.
- Spice it up: Add extra chili flakes or toss in a dried chili.
- Make it your own: Try a pinch of cinnamon, a few anise seeds, or even some crushed juniper berries for a unique twist.
How to Make Corned Beef Seasoning
Seriously, it’s as easy as dump, toast, blend, and sprinkle! Here’s how it’s done.
Instructions
- Toast the Whole Spices:
In a dry skillet over medium heat, add mustard seeds, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, allspice berries, cardamom seeds, celery seeds, and whole cloves. Toast for 1 minute, shaking the pan, until fragrant (but don’t let them burn!).
- Blend:
Transfer toasted spices to a spice grinder or food processor. Add red pepper flakes, ground ginger, and bay leaves (break them up a bit). - Pulse:
Blend to a coarse grind (think: chunky, not powder). You want to see flecks of spice, not dust!
- Store or Use:
Use right away, or store in a sealed jar in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
How Much Seasoning Should I Use?
For a 3–5 pound brisket, use 2–3 tablespoons of this blend. Sprinkle all over the rinsed corned beef before cooking—don’t be shy! If you like extra flavor, use the whole batch on one brisket.
Using Your Corned Beef Seasoning
- Classic brisket: Sprinkle generously over rinsed brisket before cooking, any method.
- Roast or grilled beef: Rub on roasts or even steaks for a punch of flavor.
- Potatoes & veggies: Toss with oil and roast for an epic side dish.
- DIY pickles: Use in your favorite pickling brine!
Storage
- Airtight jar: Keeps fresh for up to 6 months.
- Cool, dry place: Spices fade faster in heat and light.
- Small batches: Best flavor comes from smaller, fresher blends.
Tips for the Best Corned Beef Seasoning
- Toast, don’t skip: Toasting makes all the difference—don’t just toss everything in raw!
- Keep it coarse: You want a rustic blend, not powder.
- No added salt: Corned beef is already salty from brining; taste first before adding more.
FAQ
Usually mustard seeds, peppercorns, coriander, bay leaf, and dill or celery seeds. Homemade blends add way more flavor!
Absolutely—use a mortar and pestle, or just crush spices in a zip bag with a rolling pin. It’ll be chunkier, but that’s fine.
Up to 6 months in a sealed container, but it’s best when fresh.
Nope! Corned beef is already salty from brining. Add salt to taste if you want, but try it first.
Top BBQ & Kitchen Picks
Tested, loved and recommended by our team ✨
Corned Beef Seasoning
Forget the store-bought spice packet—this homemade corned beef seasoning is packed with bold, aromatic flavors that make every bite unforgettable. Easy, customizable, and way more flavorful!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon mustard seeds (yellow or brown)
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon coriander seeds
- ½ teaspoon allspice berries
- ½ teaspoon cardamom seeds (or pods)
- ½ teaspoon celery seeds
- 4 whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Toast mustard seeds, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, allspice, cardamom, celery seeds, and cloves in a dry pan over medium heat for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Transfer toasted spices to a spice grinder or food processor.
- Add red pepper flakes, ground ginger, and bay leaves (break them up a bit).
- Pulse until you have a coarse blend—chunky, not powdery.
- Sprinkle 2–3 tablespoons over rinsed brisket before cooking. Store any leftovers in a sealed jar up to 6 months.
Notes
No salt needed—corned beef is already brined. Toasting your spices is key to unlocking flavor. Keep the blend coarse for that deli-style texture.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size 1 tablespoonAmount Per Serving Calories 18Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 1gCholesterol 0mgSodium 2mgCarbohydrates 2gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 0g
Leave a Reply