What is Roast Beef?

Roast beef is a classic dish of oven-roasted beef that is commonly served as the main course of a meal. It is widely regarded as a national dish in England. Here’s a complete guide to understanding roast beef:

Origins and History

• Roast beef has long been associated with England and English cuisine dating back to the 1700s.

• However, it was not commonly eaten in medieval England. Meat roasting became more popular during the 1800s.

• The French nickname for the English is “les Rosbifs” referring to their love for roast beef.

• In the US, roast beef became a mainstream Sunday dinner option by the early 1900s.

Where on the Cow is Roast Beef Cut From?

• Roast beef is prepared from larger cuts of beef taken from the following areas on the cow:

  • Chuck (shoulder)

  • Rib (ribcage area)

  • Sirloin (lower back)

  • Round (hind leg)

• Common roast beef cuts are chuck roast, rib roast, top round, eye round, sirloin tip etc.

• The rib section yields the most tender and prized roast beef cuts like ribeye roast and prime rib.

Roasting Methods

There are two main methods for roasting beef:

• Oven roasting – The beef is seasoned and roasted uncovered in the oven at 300-350°F. Meat thermometer should read 120-135°F for medium rare doneness.

• Grill roasting – The beef is grilled on a rotisserie or grill at high temp 400-450°F to get a nice crust. Core temp for medium rare is same.

• Lower oven temps are ideal for large beef cuts to ensure even, gentle cooking.

• Use a meat thermometer to check internal temp instead of time.

• Resting the roast after cooking is also important to allow juices to redistribute.

Serving Traditions

• In England, roast beef is classically served with Yorkshire pudding (popover-style baking), gravy and roasted potatoes/veggies.

• Horseradish and horseradish cream are frequent condiments paired with roast beef.

• In the US, roast beef gravy, mashed potatoes, bread stuffing, and vegetables like carrots, green beans or creamed spinach are common sides.

• Sliced roast beef between bread slices makes an iconic roast beef sandwich.

Leftover Uses

Leftover roasted beef can be used in the following innovative ways:

• Chopped or shredded for roast beef hash recipes

• Added to tacos, pizzas, nachos, salads etc.

• Used in chunky soups like beef barley or beef vegetable soup

• Layered into sandwiches and paninis

• Stuffed into omelettes or breakfast burritos

Buying and Carving Tips

• Opt for good marbling while buying a roast beef cut for maximum flavor and tenderness.

• USDA Prime grade is the highest quality beef though expensive. Lower grades like Choice or Select are more economical.

• Let the roast sit at room temp for 1-2 hours before cooking for more even roasting.

• Use a sharp carving knife to slice the beef across the grain into thin slices for easier chewing.

• Slice only as much roast beef as needed to prevent leftovers from drying out.