St. Patrick’s Day Corned Beef and Cabbage Sliders

Introduction

St. Patrick’s Day is a celebration of Irish heritage, and what better way to honor the tradition than with Corned Beef and Cabbage Sliders? These delicious mini sandwiches feature tender corned beef, braised cabbage, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy mustard sauce, all packed into soft slider buns. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a festive meal, these sliders bring bold flavors in a bite-sized treat.

Ingredients

For the Corned Beef:

• 3 lbs corned beef brisket
• 1 packet pickling spices (usually included with corned beef)
• 1 onion, quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, smashed
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup beer (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Braised Cabbage:

• 1 small head green cabbage, shredded
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For the Sliders:

• 12 slider buns (potato or Hawaiian rolls work well)
• 6 slices Swiss cheese, halved
• 2 tbsp whole grain mustard or Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Corned Beef

1. Rinse the corned beef under cold water to remove excess brine.
2. Place it in a large pot with onion, garlic, and pickling spices.
3. Pour in water and beer (if using), ensuring the beef is fully submerged.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
5. Cover and cook for 2.5 to 3 hours until fork-tender.
6. Remove from pot, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice thinly.

Step 2: Prepare the Braised Cabbage

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add shredded cabbage, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir occasionally and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
4. Add apple cider vinegar, stir, and remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Sliders

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice the slider buns in half and place the bottom halves in a baking dish.
3. Spread mustard and mayonnaise evenly over the buns.
4. Layer with Swiss cheese, corned beef slices, and braised cabbage.
5. Top with the remaining buns.

Step 4: Bake the Sliders

1. Brush melted butter over the tops of the buns.
2. Sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley.
3. Cover with foil and bake for 10 minutes.
4. Remove foil and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add horseradish or spicy mustard for an extra zing.
• Cheese Swap: Use cheddar or provolone instead of Swiss.
• Bun Choices: Try rye bread sliders for a more traditional Irish taste.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the sliders a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Conclusion

These Corned Beef and Cabbage Sliders are the perfect way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with friends and family. Packed with flavors of traditional Irish cuisine, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering. Enjoy the festive spirit with this easy and delicious recipe!