New England Boiled Dinner

2-1/2 to 3 pounds corned beef brisket
3 tablespoons pickling spices, 3 bay leaves and 5 black peppercorns, tied in a cheesecloth bag
2 potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
3 carrots, each cut into 4 pieces
1 onion, quartered
2 parsnips, cut into chunks
2 turnips, cut into chunks
1 small cabbage, cut into wedges
1 tablespoon salt

Horseradish Cream

1 cup sour cream
Up to 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Hot sauce (recommended: Tabasco)

In a large pot combine the meat, the spice bag and enough cold water to cover. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 2 hours. Add vegetables and salt and return to a simmer. Continue to simmer until fork-tender, 30 minutes to 1 hour longer.

For the Horseradish Cream:

In a small bowl combine sour cream and horseradish; season, to taste, with salt, pepper and hot sauce.

To finish, remove corned beef to a carving board and slice against the grain. Transfer to a large, warmed, deep platter. Drain broth and reserve for soup, if desired. Arrange vegetables around meat and serve. Pass the horseradish cream for guests to help themselves, as desired.

Yield: 6 to 8 servings