Savory Corned or Roast Beef Hash
Description:
Experience the rich, savory flavors of a classic Corned or Roast Beef Hash, a delightful way to use up leftover roast beef or corned beef. This recipe, inspired by the beloved Julia Child & Company cookbook from 1978, transforms simple ingredients into a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for brunch, St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, or any time you crave a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups onions, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 3 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups cooked beef (corned or roast), diced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 egg
- 6 tablespoons ketchup or chili sauce
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
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Prepare the Skillet: Begin by melting the butter with olive oil in a heavy, 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. The combination of these fats creates a rich base for your hash.
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Sauté the Onions: Add the finely chopped onions to the skillet and sauté them, stirring frequently, for approximately 6 minutes or until they become tender and translucent.
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Brown the Onions: Increase the heat to medium-high and continue cooking the onions for an additional few minutes until they achieve a golden brown color. This step adds a delicious depth of flavor.
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Create the Paste: Lower the heat and stir in the flour to form a paste. If the mixture seems too dry, add a bit more butter to achieve the right consistency. Cook the paste, stirring constantly, for about 2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
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Incorporate the Liquids: Gradually blend in the beef liquid (broth or gravy), bringing the mixture to a boil. This will help to thicken the hash and incorporate all the flavors.
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Add the Potatoes and Beef: Mix in the diced potatoes, cooked beef, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
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Finish with Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and stir thoroughly to ensure an even distribution throughout the mixture.
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Cook the Hash: Press the hash mixture down firmly with the flat side of a spatula to create an even layer. Cover the skillet with a fitting lid or a round pizza pan weighted down with a heavy object. If neither is available, aluminum foil can be used as a cover. Cook the hash slowly for about 15 minutes, or until it develops a golden-brown crust on the bottom.
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Stir and Continue Cooking: Gently stir the hash to mix some of the crust into the mixture. If it appears dry, add more beef liquid or cream as needed. Repeat the cooking and stirring process for two additional 15-minute intervals, ensuring that the heat is not too high to prevent burning or drying out.
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Create the Final Crust: During the last 5-10 minutes of cooking, increase the heat slightly to develop a final, crispy crust. Avoid stirring this last crust into the hash.
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Serve: Once the hash is done, cut it into wedges and flip each piece upside down onto a plate, so the crust side is facing up. For a delightful touch, serve the hash with a poached egg on top and a dollop of fresh tomato sauce, ketchup, or chili sauce.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful Corned or Roast Beef Hash, a dish that not only utilizes leftovers but also delivers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion! 🌟🍽️🍳