Cabbage wedges may be added on top of the brisket during the last three hours of cooking. Calculate cooking time at 20 to 30 minutes per pound. Turn meat over and rotate dish. Microwave on high for remainder of time or until fork tender. Vegetables may be added during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
Some consumers prefer to cook corned beef ahead of time.
It is easier to cut uniform slices when corned beef is cold. Cooking ahead also makes it easier to reheat and serve later. Place the beef in small, shallow containers and cool it in the refrigerator quickly. Use cooked-ahead or leftover corned beef within 3 to 4 days or freeze up to 2 months. Using a clove studded orange I have read some recipes that use a orange and roll it to release the juices inside.