Simmered corned beef

Cut fat off brisket. In 3-quart casserole, place brisket in water. Slice onion over brisket and add garlic and bay leaves (and, if desired, any packet of spices that comes with the brisket). Cover. Microwave on high for 25 minutes. Turn brisket over. Microwave on medium (50 percent power) for 60 minutes, turning brisket over after 30 minutes. Drain.

Mix mustard with brown sugar. Either brush the glaze on the brisket and cook in the microwave for a few minutes more, or simply mix the glaze, warm it in the microwave and serve on the side of the brisket.

Serve with boiled cabbage and potatoes.

--Susan Reed, Charlottesville