So, why would you want to grill a corned beef? You’ll add a lot more flavor to the meat than simply boiling it will. Also, you get a piece of brisket that isn’t boiled mush. Grilled corned beef is denser and has a much better texture. The first step in grilling your corned beef is to soak the beef for about 30 minutes per pound and no less than 2 hours. This soaking will need to be done with warm water or the salt will not dissolve effectively. You may choose to place the corned beef in a pot of water and set it on your stove over a low heat (about 140°f) for the soaking time.You also need to change the water every hour and rinse the corned beef off when you change the water. Save the last batch of water to boil your cabbage and potatoes. (Use some of the drippings from the grilling to add extra flavor). Let the corned beef cool to at least room temperature before grilling. With the corned beef soaked and rinsed, you can apply the seasonings.
Corned beef is sold with a spice packet. You can use it or mix up a rub of your own. Use coarsely cracked black pepper, cracked coriander seeds, onion powder, thyme, paprika, garlic powder and cayenne. You can save yourself the time and just use John Henry’s™ Mohave Garlic Pepper Gold. You’ll want to grill your corned beef for about 1 to 2 hours at a low temperature (about 250°f). Charcoal and hardwoods will give you better flavors but you can use a gas grill. I prefer using the Big Green Egg for this St. Patrick’s Day favorite. Regardless, use the indirect grilling method and a drip pan under the corned beef. Grill until the internal temperature of the meat reaches more than 165°f. While grilling you want to MOP the corned beef every 30 minutes. Use some of the rub you prepared with equal parts of water, oil and vinegar to makes something similar to a salad dressing. This will keep the meat moist and also help drain out any additional salt left behind. By mopping with seasonings from the rub you continue to add that great flavor to the corned beef. If you introduce some smoke to the process you’ll add even more flavor.