Homemade Corned Beef

Step 1: Bring the water, salt, brown sugar and 2 tablespoons pickling spices to a simmer while stirring to dissolve the salt and sugar and remove from heat.

Step 2: Bring to room temperature then refrigerate to cool; add a few drops of the food coloring if using .

Step 3: Place the beef brisket and garlic in a large resealable freezer bag and pour the liquid over beef.

Step 4: Seal the bag squeezing out all the air; refrigerate for 5 days, turning bag over every day.

Step 5: After the 5 day cure, rinse off the brisket with cold water.

Step 6: Place the brisket and 1 tablespoon picking spices in a pot and cover with water.

Step 7: Bring to a simmer and cook for 3 hours until fork tender.

Step 8: This can also be cooked in a crock-pot on high for 4 hours.