Roast beef

Roast beef

1 h
Low-temperature roast beef is extra juicy. This recipe is not only easy to make but a delicious classic. Including vine tomatoes that are baked together with the meat and get extra colour in the oven while the meat rests, you will be surprised by this delicious combination. In this recipe we pair it with a green bean side that you will love.
https://www.arlafoods.co.uk/recipes/roast-beef/

Instructions

Step 1
  • Set the oven to 125°C.
Step 2
  • Add the butter & rapeseed oil to a frying pan and brown the meat. Place in an ovenproof dish. Salt and pepper the meat and season with fresh thyme.
Step 3
  • Insert a meat thermometer so that the tip is in the middle of the thickest part of the meat. Arrange the vine tomatoes and bay leaves next to the meat.
Step 4
  • Roast in the middle of the oven for 45-60 minutes or until the meat thermometer reads 60°C for red, 65°C for pink, or 70°C for well-done.
  • Remove the meat but leave the tomatoes in.
Step 5
  • Cover the meat with foil and let it rest. Increase the oven temperature to 250°C and roast the tomatoes for a further 10 minutes.
Step 6
  • Boil the green beans in lightly salted water for 3-4 minutes. Drain the water. Stir in the butter & rapeseed oil, garlic, and pepper.
Step 7
  • Serve the meat with the tomatoes, green beans and, if you like, potato gratin.
Enjoy!

Questions about roast beef

Read below the most frequently asked questions about roast beef.

How do I cook a beef roast without drying it out?
There are three tricks to prevent your roast from drying out. Step one is to sear your meat before roasting to lock in those succulent juices right from the start. Next, always use a meat thermometer as a fail-proof way of knowing when your meat is done and avoiding overcooking. And lastly, let your roast rest for at least 10-15 minutes before serving.
Should roast beef be cooked covered or uncovered?
Roast beef should always be cooked uncovered to achieve that slightly charred outer layer and succulently tender meat.
What herbs and spices go well with beef?
While salt, pepper, thyme and a few bay leaves are a basic mix, it’s one of our favourites for roast beef. If you want to mix it up some more, add hearty herbs like rosemary, oregano, and tarragon or spices like cumin, paprika or cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
What happens if you don't brown meat before slow cooking?
Browning, or searing, the meat will seal in its juices. This sets you up for roast beef perfection where every drop of moisture is preserved right from the start. Skipping this step will also mean you lose out on that beautiful caramelisation, an essential flavour that often differentiates a good roast from an excellent one.
How long should you roast beef for?
This depends on the weight and how you like to eat your meat. A general rule of thumb for a rare roast is 15-20 minutes per 500 g. For medium rare, increase the cooking time to 20-25 minutes and for well-done, 25-30 minutes per 500 g. The most reliable way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer (60°C for rare, 65°C for medium, or 70°C for well-done).
What cut of beef is used for roast beef?
There isn’t one specific cut that is used for roast beef. Great options include ribeye (bone-in if possible), topside, silverside, or sirloin.

Ingredients

Roast beef
Roast beef or flank steak
600 g
Butter and rapeseed oil
Salt
1 tsp
Black pepper
1 tsp
Chopped fresh thyme
1 tbsp
Cherry tomatoes on the vine
300 g
Bay leaves
3
Flake salt
Green beans with garlic
Fresh green beans
200 g
Butter and rapeseed oil
3 tbsp
Pressed garlic clove
1
Black pepper to taste

A melt-in-your-mouth roast

This recipe will invoke many a childhood memory of the family gathering for a weekend lunch. Roasted low and slow and served with crunchy green beans, this succulent beef and vegetable combo is what lazy Sundays are all about.

Low temperature roast beef secrets

The melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of this roast is all thanks to a low and slow cooking process. Scientifically speaking, it softens the tough connective tissues and keeps the meat at its succulent best. Our top three tips are: sear (or brown) the meat before roasting, use a meat thermometer to get the perfect doneness every time, and rest your meat for at least 10-15 minutes before serving.

Sauces that pair well with roast beef

Making a gravy from the leftover cooking juices is the most obvious and traditional pairing. Create a cornflour slurry (two tablespoons of cornflour mixed with two tablespoons of water), add extra liquid if needed (water or beef stock) and thicken over low heat. Other great flavour combinations include a tangy mustard sauce, peppery horseradish, or a fruity chutney for a sweeter alternative.

Serving suggestions and what to make from any leftovers

Potatoes in any shape or form – from roasted and mashed to creamy gratins and tangy salads – will pair well. Rich and savoury Yorkshire puddings are also a great side, especially when combined with a thick gravy. You can also serve it with a fresh garden salad, caramelised brussels sprouts, or roasted vegetables. For leftovers, it won’t get much better than a roast beef sandwich on rye.