Have you ever marvelled at the perfectly roasted meat dishes served at restaurants and wondered how they achieve such impeccable results? Well, wonder no more! In this guide, we will provide you with expert tips and tricks to create a mouth-watering restaurant-grade roast using La Boucherie meats in the comfort of your own home.

Roasting meat is an art form that requires a delicate balance of time, temperature, and technique. At La Boucherie, meat is at the core of our expertise, and with our comprehensive guide, you’ll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to become a master roaster in your own kitchen.

From choosing the right cuts of meat to prepping and cooking them to perfection, we’ll cover everything you need to know to create an impressive roast that will wow your family and guests. So, let’s dive in and discover the secrets to the perfect roast!

Roasting vs. Baking: What is the Difference?

Roasting and baking may share similar traits, but there are some key differences that every home cook should know. Roasting is ideal for cuts of meat that are larger and denser, such as beef or pork roasts, whole chickens, and turkeys. These cuts of meat require a higher heat to cook through to the centre while developing a golden-brown crust on the outside. Roasting also results in pan drippings, which can be used to make a rich and flavorful sauce or gravy.

On the other hand, baking is best for delicate dishes like pastries, cakes, and bread, where a lower temperature and longer cooking time are necessary to achieve a tender and flaky texture. Baking is also used for dishes that do not require the same level of browning or caramelization that roasting provides, such as casseroles, baked vegetables, and pasta dishes.

The Best Cuts of Meat for Roasting

When it comes to roasting, not all cuts of meat are created equal. Ensuring that the end result is juicy, tender, and bursting with flavour depends on choosing the right cut to roast. Here are some recommended cuts of meat for achieving the most mouth-watering roast:

The Best Beef Cuts To Roast

• Ribeye Steak: This delectable and marbled cut is a favourite among steak lovers. When roasting, be sure to let the meat rest at room temperature for at least an hour before cooking. Roast at 175°C to an internal temperature of 57°C for medium-rare, or 63°C for medium.
• Sirloin Steak: This leaner cut can still be deliciously tender when roasted properly. Choose a sirloin cut with good marbling and let it rest at room temperature for an hour before roasting. Roast at 160°C to an internal temperature of 57°C for medium-rare, or 63°C for medium.
• Prime Rib: A delicious prime rib can be a showstopper when done right. Choose a bone-in prime rib roast and let it come to room temperature before cooking. Roast at 160°C to an internal temperature of 49°C for rare, 54°C for medium-rare, or 60°C for medium.
• Beef Tenderloin: This lean and tender cut is often reserved for special occasions. When roasting, be sure to tie the meat to maintain its shape and roast at 220°C to an internal temperature of 52°C for medium-rare, or 57°C for medium.
• Brisket: This tough cut can be transformed into melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness with low and slow roasting. Rub the brisket with a spice rub or marinade, and roast at 120°C for 8-10 hours until fork tender.

The Best Pork Cuts to Roast

• Pork Loin: This lean and versatile cut is perfect for weeknight dinners. Roast at 175°C to an internal temperature of 63°C for juicy and tender meat.
• Pork Tenderloin: This lean and tender cut is a popular choice among home cooks. Roast at 220°C to an internal temperature of 63°C for a quick and delicious dinner.
• Pork Leg: This larger cut can be trickier to prepare but the result is well worth the effort. Roast at 175°C to an internal temperature of 63°C for tender and delicious meat.

The Best Lamb Cuts to Roast

• Lamb Leg: This classic dish is perfect for Easter or other special occasions. Roast at 175°C to an internal temperature of 63°C for tender and juicy meat.
• Lamb Rack: This impressive cut can be roasted whole or cut into individual chops. Roast at 190°C to an internal temperature of 63°C for medium-rare, or 71°C for medium.
• Lamb Shoulder: This delicious cut can be cooked low and slow or at a higher temperature. Roast at 160°C for 4-6 hours until tender.

The Best Choice of Poultry for Roasting

• Whole Chicken: This classic dinner staple can be roasted with or without stuffing. Roast at 175°C to an internal temperature of 74°C for fully cooked meat.
• Turkey: This holiday favorite is actually a budget-friendly option that is great all year round. It can be brined or seasoned to add extra flavour. Roast at 160°C to an internal temperature of 74°C for fully cooked meat.
• Duck: This rich and tasty meat is perfect for special occasions. Roast at 175°C to an internal temperature of 74°C for fully cooked meat.

Combine Cooking Methods and Temperatures

Combining cooking methods and temperatures can help you achieve an even more delicious and perfectly cooked roast. One method you can try is pan-searing your beef before transferring it to the oven. This technique allows you to create a tasty crust on the outside of the meat while still ensuring it’s tender and juicy on the inside. Here are the steps to follow:

1. First, season your beef with salt and pepper, or your preferred seasoning mix.
2. Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large, oven-safe skillet over high heat.
3. Once the oil is hot, add the beef to the skillet and let it sear for 2-3 minutes on each side, until a brown crust forms.
4. Use tongs to turn the beef over and sear it on all sides.
5. Once the beef is seared on all sides, transfer the skillet to a preheated oven and continue to roast until it reaches the desired internal temperature.
6. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature is correct before removing the beef from the oven.

This method works well with beef roasts like ribeye, sirloin, and tenderloin. However, be cautious when using this method with leaner cuts of meat, as they may dry out if overcooked. Overall, combining cooking methods can help you achieve a mouth-watering roast that is sure to impress your guests.

Pick The Best Herbs for Each Type of Meat

Just the right herbs can add a new depth of flavour to your meat that will tantalise your taste buds. However, each type of meat benefits from different herbs, so it is essential to know which ones to use. By using the right herbs, you can take your roast to the next level and create a dish that is full of flavour and deliciousness. Here are some recommended herbs for each meat type:

Herbs for Your Roasted Beef

Rosemary and thyme are excellent herbs for beef, as they add a savoury and slightly earthy flavour to the meat. You can either sprinkle the herbs directly onto the beef before popping it in the oven or tie them together with twine and place them on top of the beef whilst it roasts.

Herbs for Your Roasted Pork

Sage and garlic are the perfect herbs for pork, as they give the meat a delicious, earthy flavour. Rub the herbs onto the pork before placing it in the oven or stuff them inside the meat before tying it up.

Herbs for Your Roast Chicken

Tarragon and parsley are excellent herbs for chicken, as they add a fresh and slightly sweet flavour to the meat. Mix the herbs with butter and rub the mixture onto the chicken prior to cooking, or stuff them under the skin for even more flavour.

Herbs for Your Lamb Roast

Mint and oregano are the perfect herbs for lamb, as they add a slightly sweet and pungent taste to the meat. Sprinkle the herbs onto the lamb prior to roasting or mix them with garlic and olive oil to make a delicious marinade.

Get Started with Our Premium Meat Selection at La Boucherie

If you follow these tips, we guarantee that you’ll be well on your way to creating a restaurant-grade roast, especially if you also use La Boucherie’s premium selection of meats. Remember to let your meat come down to room temperature, invest in quality tools, know your cuts and cooking times, and add some herbs for extra flavour. With a little practice, you’re bound to start impressing your friends and family with your perfect roasts every time.

Being true meat lovers and Malta’s best wholesale butcher, all of our meat is guaranteed to offer you excellent quality and unbeatable flavours. At La Boucherie, you’ll find a wide range of premium cuts at wholesale prices with same-day delivery for orders placed before 13:00. Yet, if you prefer to purchase your cuts over the counter, feel free to visit our fully stocked butcher shop in Qormi and browse our impeccable selection of fresh meats in-store.