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Roast beef

If you're looking for a classic, delectable dish to tantalize your taste buds, then roast beef is the perfect meal. The succulent umami flavors of the roasted beef are truly hard to resist and will have you licking your plate clean in no time.

Roast beef


The classic roast beef is usually made by oven roasting a piece of well-marbled meat for several hours. The slow cooking method ensures that the beef is cooked uniformly and imparts a wonderfully deep flavor. The beef is then seasoned with herbs, spices, and salt and pepper to bring out its robust and complex taste.

The beauty of roast beef lies in its versatility. You can prepare it for a large gathering or for a simple dinner for two. You can also choose from a variety of recipes, from traditional English favorites to modern twist and flavors from other cuisines. The possibilities are truly endless.

Not only is roast beef tasty, but it's also nourishing and relatively easy to prepare. Its high amount of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamin B-12 ensure that it keeps you not only energized but also healthy. Plus, because it's roasted in the oven, it doesn't require much hands-on time or attention.

Whatever type of occasion you're celebrating, roast beef is sure to please. Its hearty flavors and comforting aroma will transport you straight to culinary heaven. Whether you opt for a sliver of medium-rare steak or a slab of juicy prime rib, your taste buds won't be disappointed!

The origin of Roast beef

The succulent and incredibly palatable roast beef dish has humble origins that have been firmly linked with the English aristocracy since the 17th century. Records largely attribute this dish to King Charles I, who declared in 1626 that "no man shall eat the flesh of the ox, save on Sundays and holidays." The king was certainly fond of his Sunday roast, and the tradition of indulging in a striking dinner dish of roasted beef began to spread throughout the country.

The earliest documented recipe for this beloved food item dates back to the early 1700s and was very much in the style of our modern-day roast beef. Referred to as the 'Baron of Beef', the dish appeared in an English cookbook and described how to prepare a large rib of beef, which was then coated in flavourful spices and slow-roasted over a smoldering fire.

The popularity of the Baron of Beef continued to rise as more awareness was raised about the food. It soon became a popular choice for grand feasts, especially among nobility, who often served their roasted meat with a decadent side of potatoes, carrots, and gravy. Even though the ingredients and presentation varied until the late 19th century, the overall concept of the roast beef dish remained relatively the same.

Today, the roast beef is still a favoured Sunday dinner option in many countries across the world. Although it has evolved in numerous ways, from the seasoning and cooking time to the vegetables and accompaniments, roast beef remains at the centre as a delectable, timeless classic.

FAQs about Roast beef

Do you cover roast beef in oven?

Yes, you can cover roast beef with foil when cooking in the oven. Covering with foil helps to keep the roast moist and cook it evenly.


How do I cook a tender roast beef?

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rub the roast beef with a mixture of garlic and herbs.
3. Place the roast beef in a roasting pan.
4. Add some vegetables to the pan such as carrots, potatoes, onions and celery.
5. Add 1/2 cup of broth or water to the bottom of the pan.
6. Cover the roasting pan with foil and place it in the preheated oven.
7. Roast for 2 to 3 hours, checking the internal temperature of the meat occasionally with a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach between 135-145°F (57-63°C) for medium-rare, 155-165°F (68-74°C) for medium and 165-175°F (74-79°C) for well done.
8. Remove the roast from the oven when it reaches the desired temperature and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy!


How do you make roast beef?

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Trim any excess fat from the roast.
3. Rub the roast with oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan.
5. Roast for 20 minutes per 1 lb. of meat.
6. Baste the meat occasionally with the juices from the roasting pan.
7. When the roast reaches an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C), remove it from the oven.
8. Allow the roast to rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.


What cut is roast beef?

Roast beef is cut from the beef rib, sirloin or round.


Types of Roast beef

The succulent, savory aroma of a freshly cooked roast beef can conjure up memories of childhood family dinners, special occasions, and holidays for many people. Roast beef is a classic dish that no one will ever tire of, and with so many recipes and variations to choose from, there's something sure to tantalize the taste buds of everyone.

Whether slow-cooked, oven-roasted, rotisserie-style, or even seared in a hot skillet, a perfectly prepared roast beef can be a tender, juicy, and flavorful delight. Slow-cooked roast beef typically has a more pronounced flavor than oven-roasted. It takes hours to prepare, but you can start the process in the morning and have a delicious dinner ready by late afternoon. There are also techniques used to enhance its flavor like adding stock, sauces, and seasonings prior to cooking.

For a unique twist on roast beef, try smoking it over low heat. This method infuses the beef with smoky and aromatic flavors, creating an intensely flavored roast. Grilling is another popular option, searing the beef over high heat, which gives it a wonderful char, crisp texture, and intense flavor.

Rotisserie roast beef is a great way to make a quick and easy dinner. The beef is simply loaded onto a rotisserie rod, seasoned with your favorite spices, and cooked over low heat for several hours. It yields a juicy, fork-tender roast that can be served with your favorite sides.

If you're like most home cooks, you may have fond memories of roasting beef in a skillet. This traditional method results in a savory, browned roast that has a crunchy sear on the outside, while the inside remains tender and juicy. If you're short on time, pan-searing roast beef over high heat is a great way to quickly cook the meat and still achieve impressive results.

No matter what cooking technique you use, you're sure to love the results of your roast beef dinner. Whether slow-cooked, oven-roasted, smoked, grilled, rotisserie, or pan-seared, roast beef is always a comforting and satisfying meal.