Corned Beef And Cabbage

4 pounds corned-beef brisket with spice packet
water
1 can of beer, optional
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 medium onion, chopped
2 bay leaves
6 potatoes, cut in half
5 carrots, peeled and chopped
4 cloves garlic
1 medium head cabbage, cut into small wedges
1 medium onion, chopped

Place corned beef in large pot, and cover with water and one can of beer. Add the spice packet. Cover pot, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Add brown sugar, onion and bay leaves. Simmer 3-1/2 hours. Skim top if needed. Add potatoes, carrots, garlic and cabbage, and cook until the vegetables are tender. Remove meat, and slice across the grain. Or combine all ingredients in a slow cooker on low for 6 hours.