how long to cook corned beef in ninja foodi

3 min read 15-01-2025

how long to cook corned beef in ninja foodi

Corned beef, a flavorful cut of beef brined in salt and spices, is a culinary classic often associated with St. Patrick's Day. While traditionally boiled, the Ninja Foodi pressure cooker offers a faster and more convenient way to achieve tender, juicy results. This guide will walk you through the optimal cooking times and techniques for perfectly cooked corned beef in your Ninja Foodi.

Preparing Your Corned Beef for the Ninja Foodi

Before you start cooking, ensure your corned beef is properly prepared. Most packages come with a seasoning packet; save this! You'll also need to rinse the corned beef thoroughly under cold water to remove excess salt. This step prevents the final product from becoming overly salty.

Tip: Pat the corned beef dry with paper towels after rinsing. This helps achieve a better sear (if you choose to sear it).

Ninja Foodi Corned Beef Cooking Methods: Pressure Cooking vs. Air Frying

The Ninja Foodi's versatility shines here. You can achieve perfectly cooked corned beef using either the pressure cooking function or a combination of pressure cooking and air frying for a crispier finish.

Method 1: Pressure Cooking Only (Fastest Method)

This method delivers tender, melt-in-your-mouth corned beef in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods.

Instructions:

Add Liquid: Place 1 cup of water or beef broth at the bottom of your Ninja Foodi's inner pot. This creates steam and prevents burning.
Place Corned Beef: Carefully place the corned beef in the pot. If using a seasoning packet, sprinkle it over the beef. Add any additional spices you desire (e.g., peppercorns, bay leaves).
Pressure Cook: Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and select the pressure cook function. Cooking time depends on the thickness of your corned beef:
- For a 3-4 lb corned beef: Set the time for 70-80 minutes.
- For a 4-5 lb corned beef: Set the time for 90-100 minutes.
Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 20 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure. This ensures the beef is incredibly tender.
Rest and Serve: Carefully remove the corned beef and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender final product.

Method 2: Pressure Cooking & Air Frying (For a Crispy Finish)

This method combines the speed of pressure cooking with a crispy exterior achieved through air frying.

Instructions:

Follow Steps 1-4 from Method 1.
Air Fry: After the natural pressure release, select the air fry function on your Ninja Foodi. Air fry for 5-10 minutes at 375°F, flipping halfway through, to crisp the corned beef. Monitor closely to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I know when my corned beef is done?

The corned beef should be fork-tender. It should easily shred with a fork. If it's still tough, continue cooking in 10-minute increments until tender.

Can I add vegetables to the Ninja Foodi with the corned beef?

Yes! Add root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and turnips during the last 30 minutes of pressure cooking. They'll cook perfectly alongside the beef.

What should I do with the cooking liquid?

Don't throw away the cooking liquid! It's full of flavor and can be used as a delicious base for soup or gravy.

Can I cook a corned beef brisket in the Ninja Foodi?

Yes, the cooking time will be similar to a corned beef. However, you may need to adjust based on the thickness of the brisket. Always check for tenderness using a fork.

Conclusion

Cooking corned beef in your Ninja Foodi is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy this classic dish. By following these instructions and tips, you'll be able to create a perfectly tender and flavorful corned beef every time. Remember to adjust cooking times based on the size and thickness of your corned beef. Enjoy!