Opening a can of corned beef can be surprisingly tricky if you don’t know the method. I’ve struggled with this for years but have finally mastered the technique. In this article I’ll walk you through the simple 4 step process so you can enjoy delicious corned beef without any frustration.
Corned beef is a salt-cured beef product that’s usually sold in cans. It originated as a way to preserve meat before refrigeration was common. The “corn” in corned beef refers to the grains of salt used to cure the beef not actual corn.
Corned beef is often used for sandwiches like the classic Reuben, or served with cabbage for a St. Patrick’s Day meal. Canned corned beef is shelf-stable, so it’s easy to keep on hand for quick meals.
The cans have an unusual shape, with one end being flat and the other domed. The flat end has a ring pull device attached to open the can. The domed end has a “key” – a small triangular piece of metal attached to the center. The key is an integral part of opening the can correctly.
Now let’s get into the step-by-step process of opening a can of corned beef.
Step 1: Remove the Key
The first step is to remove the key from the domed end of the can. Grab the key with your fingers or slide a spoon under it to pop it off. This allows you to access the underside of the key.
It’s crucial to remove the key completely before trying to open the can. I made the mistake countless times of trying to roll the can with the key still attached. This leads to frustration and failed attempts to get the can open.
Step 2: Position the Can Correctly
With the key removed, you’ll notice the underside has a “T” shaped slot. This slot needs to be positioned on the flat end of the can, lined up with the ring pull device.
Specifically, the top bar of the “T” shape should be touching the flat end, with the vertical leg of the “T” pointing towards the ring pull. The key has to be oriented properly for the can to open correctly.
Step 3: Roll the Can
Here is where the magic happens. With the can positioned correctly, start rolling the domed end along the flat end, keeping the key in place. Roll towards the ring pull device in a smooth, uniform motion.
You want the domed end to glide along the flat end, turning as you roll. The key acts as a guide, essentially cutting a line in the can lid as you turn it. Do not shake or twist the can – a steady roll is the key.
After rolling the can about 2 inches, you’ll hear the pressure release. Keep rolling another inch or so until the can is fully open. The beef will protrude from the opening slightly when done.
Step 4: Enjoy Your Corned Beef!
Once you get the can open, remove the beef for use in your recipe. Now you can make amazing corned beef hash, Reuben sandwiches, or whatever you crave!
No more struggling with cans, saws, or can openers. Just follow the 4 simple steps: remove key, position correctly, roll evenly, and enjoy. With a bit of practice, you’ll be able to open cans of corned beef with total confidence.
Here are some additional tips for success:
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Work over a sink or bowl to catch any juices that may spill out when rolling the can.
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Rolled correctly, the can opens smoothly every time. If you feel excessive resistance, double check the key positioning.
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The domed end allows the pressure to release safely. Never open the flat end first.
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Store any leftover corned beef in a sealed container in the refrigerator.
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Add your favorite seasonings to make the corned beef unique. Try mustard, horseradish, or hot sauce.
Step 2: The Correct Orientation.
Introduction: How to Open a Can of Corned Beef.
How to open a tin of corned beef
FAQ
How do you open canned corned beef?
Break off the key. Remove the label. Slot the key into the metal tab to unwind the tear strip. Use a cloth to cover the lid and bend open. Shake the can and take meat out with a fork.
Can you open corned beef with a tin opener?
Yeah, in my experience can openers do a terrible job at opening these square tins. I’ve been in a similar position to OP and both the tin openers I had – which were perfectly fine for standard round tins – struggled. Ended up getting halfway before having to brute forcing it open using a knife as a lever.