Corned beef and cabbage, a classic St. Patrick's Day meal, gets a fun, modern twist with these delicious sliders! Perfect for parties, casual gatherings, or a unique weeknight dinner, these bite-sized delights offer all the flavor of the traditional dish with added convenience and portability. This recipe goes beyond the holiday, offering a flavorful and satisfying meal any time of the year.
What Makes These Corned Beef and Cabbage Sliders So Special?
These sliders aren't just about shrinking the portions; they're about enhancing the experience. The tender corned beef is perfectly complemented by the subtly sweet and slightly tangy cabbage slaw. The slider buns provide the perfect vessel, holding everything together for easy, mess-free eating. The combination of textures—tender beef, crisp cabbage, and soft bread—creates a truly satisfying culinary journey.
Ingredients You'll Need:
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For the Corned Beef:
- 1 lb corned beef brisket (pre-cooked, available at most grocery stores)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp caraway seeds (optional, but adds a nice depth of flavor)
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For the Cabbage Slaw:
- 1 small head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
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Other Ingredients:
- 12 slider buns
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Corned Beef: If your corned beef is thick, slice it into 1/4-inch thick slices. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the caraway seeds (if using) and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the corned beef and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until heated through and slightly browned.
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Make the Cabbage Slaw: In a medium bowl, combine the sliced cabbage, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat.
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Assemble the Sliders: Spread a generous amount of cabbage slaw on the bottom half of each slider bun. Top with a slice or two of the warmed corned beef. Place the top half of the bun on top.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use leftover corned beef?
Absolutely! Leftover corned beef is perfect for these sliders. Simply reheat it gently before assembling the sliders.
What kind of buns are best for these sliders?
Potato rolls or brioche buns work particularly well, offering a soft and slightly sweet base that complements the savory corned beef and cabbage.
Can I make the slaw ahead of time?
Yes! The cabbage slaw can be made several hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will meld beautifully, resulting in an even more delicious slaw.
What are some variations I can try?
Get creative! Add other vegetables to the slaw, such as shredded carrots or red onion. Experiment with different mustards or vinegars for a unique flavor profile. A drizzle of Thousand Island dressing instead of mayonnaise also works well.
Are these sliders suitable for a St. Patrick's Day party?
Definitely! These sliders are a festive and crowd-pleasing addition to any St. Patrick's Day celebration. Their bite-sized portions make them easy to eat while mingling, and they offer a delicious twist on a classic dish.
Beyond St. Patrick's Day: Enjoying Corned Beef and Cabbage Sliders Year-Round
While these sliders are a perfect fit for St. Patrick's Day celebrations, their deliciousness transcends the holiday. The combination of tender corned beef and refreshing cabbage slaw makes for a satisfying meal anytime. Enjoy them as a fun weeknight dinner, a casual lunch, or even as an appetizer at a larger gathering. Their versatility and delicious flavor ensure they’ll be a hit regardless of the occasion.
