Roasting beef is a classic cooking technique that can result in a delicious, flavorful meal. However, it can be difficult to achieve the perfect level of doneness, and overcooked beef can be tough and dry. Here are a few tips on how to keep beef moist when roasting:
Choose the Right Cut of Beef
The cut of beef you choose will have a big impact on the final result. For roasting, it is best to choose a cut that is well-marbled with fat. This fat will help to keep the beef moist and flavorful as it cooks. Some good choices for roasting include:
- Rib roast
- Strip loin
- Tenderloin
- Top sirloin
Season the Beef Generously
Seasoning the beef generously before roasting will help to enhance its flavor. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite herbs. Be sure to rub the seasonings into the beef so that they penetrate the meat.
Sear the Beef Before Roasting
Searing the beef before roasting will help to create a flavorful crust and lock in the juices. To sear the beef, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
Roast the Beef at a Low Temperature
Roasting the beef at a low temperature will help to prevent it from overcooking and drying out. The ideal temperature for roasting beef is between 250 and 275 degrees Fahrenheit.
Use a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring that the beef is cooked to the desired level of doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the beef and cook until the internal temperature reaches the desired temperature.
Let the Beef Rest Before Carving
Once the beef is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
Tips for Specific Cuts of Beef
- Rib roast: Rib roast is a well-marbled cut of beef that is perfect for roasting. To cook a rib roast, season the beef generously with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, then roast in a preheated oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes per pound.
- Strip loin: Strip loin is a leaner cut of beef that is also good for roasting. To cook a strip loin, season the beef generously with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, then roast in a preheated oven at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes per pound.
- Tenderloin: Tenderloin is the most tender cut of beef, and it is also the most expensive. To cook a tenderloin, season the beef generously with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, then roast in a preheated oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes per pound.
- Top sirloin: Top sirloin is a flavorful cut of beef that is good for roasting. To cook a top sirloin, season the beef generously with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes per side, then roast in a preheated oven at 275 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes per pound.
Troubleshooting
- My beef is tough: If your beef is tough, it may be because it was overcooked. Be sure to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the beef is cooked to the desired level of doneness.
- My beef is dry: If your beef is dry, it may be because it was not cooked with enough fat. Choose a well-marbled cut of beef and be sure to sear it before roasting. You can also add a little bit of butter or olive oil to the roasting pan.
- My beef is not flavorful: If your beef is not flavorful, it may be because it was not seasoned properly. Be sure to season the beef generously with salt and pepper before roasting. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or your favorite herbs.
Another cooking option: the Pot Roast!
There are a few different ways to cook a beef joint. Another yummy option for your large cut of beef is slow cooking a pot roast!
The main distinction between a melt-in-your-mouth pot roast and a roast beef is that the latter can be sliced like prime rib and requires a longer cooking time. Pot roast is cooked for a long time (a few hours) and is incredibly tender. It’s also cooked at a low temperature.
Some options for cooking pot roast are a slow roasted boneless beef pot roast, slow cooker pot roast (crockpot pot roast), or Instant Pot pot roast. For this slow method of cooking you’ll want to use a roasting pan, crockpot, or Instant Pot. No need to find a cut of beef with good marbling for this recipe, but that’s always a plus for good flavor!
If you use a crock pot, you may want to line the bottom of the crock pot to prevent sticking.
A beef brisket can also be used for slow cooking over low heat. Tender pot roast is the ideal pairing with this type of beef joint!
Families with active schedules will also find slow cooking to be ideal because it allows you to come home after a long day to a prepared dinner!
If you don’t have a slow cooker you can also braise in a large pot, braising pan, a very large dutch oven, or large covered saucepan for a few hours to make a pot roast. Braising is a great way to get super tender meat with tons of flavor. I love to braise in these wonderful cast iron pots!
Tougher cuts of meat generally benefit from slower cooking; beef roasts, for example, can have a lot of connective tissue. The long cooking time helps break down all of that connective tissue and make the meat incredibly tender.
Ingredients for the best tender roast beef
- 4 lb organic beef roast
- 2 Tbsp fine sea salt
- 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 6 cloves garlic
- 2 Tbsp grass-fed butter, ghee, or avocado oil
- ½ cup organic beef broth
- ½ cup dry red wine
- 3 sprigs rosemary
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
How to Cook Perfect Roast Beef | Jamie Oliver
How do you keep meat moist during roasting?
Here’s The Answer! Basting the joint during roasting helps distribute the juices and keep the meat moist. Use a Basting Spoon: Baste the joint every 30 minutes with the juices that collect in the pan. Add Liquid: If the pan juices run low, add a splash of water or beef stock.
How do you prevent a dry roast?
Dry Roast: To prevent a dry roast, baste the joint regularly with its own juices or a mixture of melted butter and herbs. You can also wrap the joint in foil during the last 30 minutes of cooking to retain moisture.
Can I use water to cook roast beef?
Please don’t use water to cook your roast beef! But yes, do use a liquid in your pan when cooking roast beef. You don’t want to use water because you really need something with some flavor and seasonings! In this recipe we are using beef broth, red wine, and plenty of seasonings for the perfect flavor. SO GOOD!
What cut of meat do you need to make a roast beef?
YUM! There is no specific cut of meat you have to use to make a roast beef. Luckily, there are many great options with a variety of price points. For this easy recipe you can use eye of round, top round, bottom round (also known as rump roast), chuck roast, or heart of shoulder roast. 1.