Out of Corned beef, one case
Corned beef substitutes: salty & flavorful options
5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Pastrami
Same amount as the corned beef
The best corned beef substitutes are Pastrami, Beef Brisket + Pickling Spices, and Turkey Breast. Use 1:1 ratio and adjust cooking time and seasonings for optimal results.
- Best for —
- sandwiches
One casethe full beef base card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of corned beef |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pastramisandwiches | Same amount |
| 2 | Beef brisket + pickling spiceswhen you want to make your own | Same amount |
| 3 | Turkey breastsandwiches | Same amount |
| 4 | Hamsandwiches | Same amount |
| 5 | Beef tonguewhen you want similar texture | Same amount |
Pastrami
very similar
Pastrami is the closest substitute for corned beef. It's made from the same cut (brisket) and has similar curing and spicing, though it's typically smoked rather than boiled.
- Best for
- sandwiches, when you want similar flavor, quick substitution, deli-style dishes
- Texture
- similar but firmer
Pastrami is typically smoked rather than boiled, so it has a different texture but similar flavor profile.
Beef brisket + pickling spices
very similar · similar texture
Fresh beef brisket seasoned with pickling spices can mimic the flavor of corned beef. This requires more preparation but gives you control over the seasoning.
- Best for
- when you want to make your own, controlling salt content, customizing flavor, large quantities
This requires brining the brisket with pickling spices for several days. It's more work but gives you authentic flavor.
Turkey breast
lighter
Turkey breast provides a leaner alternative to corned beef. It's more affordable and works well in many recipes, though it has a milder flavor.
- Best for
- sandwiches, when you want lean protein, healthier option, quick preparation
- Texture
- similar when cooked properly
Turkey breast is very lean and can dry out if overcooked. It has a milder flavor than corned beef.
Ham
different but good · similar texture
Ham provides a salty, cured alternative to corned beef. It has a different flavor but works well in many recipes that call for corned beef.
- Best for
- sandwiches, when you want salty flavor, quick substitution, deli-style dishes
Ham has a different flavor profile than corned beef but provides similar saltiness and texture.
Beef tongue
similar taste · unique but good
Beef tongue provides similar texture and flavor to corned beef when properly prepared. It's more affordable and has a unique texture.
- Best for
- when you want similar texture, budget-friendly option, traditional dishes, when you want unique flavor
Beef tongue requires special preparation and has a unique texture. It's more affordable than corned beef.
How it behaves in this recipe
Corned beef is prized for its salty, cured flavor and tender texture. The best substitutes work because they either provide similar flavor and texture, or can be seasoned to achieve comparable results.
Tips for substituting corned beef
5 tips- For best results, bring your substitute to room temperature before cooking
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper doneness
- For leaner substitutes like turkey breast, consider brining to prevent drying out
- Let the meat rest after cooking to allow juices to redistribute
- Taste and adjust seasonings after substitution, as different proteins have varying flavor profiles
Notes on corned beef
- Use beef plate or beef navel for similar cuts from the same area
- Consider using beef shank for a more affordable option with different texture
- Try beef oxtail for a more flavorful but less uniform alternative
- Use beef cheek for a more tender but less common option
Questions
5 questionsWhat's the best substitute for corned beef?
Pastrami is the best substitute for corned beef. It's made from the same cut (brisket) and has similar curing and spicing, though it's typically smoked rather than boiled.
Can I use ham instead of corned beef?
Yes, ham works well as a substitute for corned beef in many recipes. It has a different flavor but provides similar saltiness and texture.
What's the difference between corned beef and pastrami?
Corned beef is typically boiled, while pastrami is smoked. Both are made from brisket and have similar curing and spicing, but pastrami has a smokier flavor.
How do I make my own corned beef?
To make your own corned beef, brine a beef brisket with pickling spices for several days, then boil until tender. This gives you control over the seasoning and salt content.
Can I use ground beef instead of corned beef?
Ground beef won't work as a direct substitute for corned beef in most recipes, as it has a completely different texture and cooking method.