Tender beef steak in the oven
Tender beef roast in the oven: a delight that combines tradition with modern cooking techniques. This recipe will not only impress you and your loved ones but will also transform your Sunday meal into a true feast. Although many are afraid of cooking beef roast, I assure you that with a few tricks and passion, you can achieve a juicy and tender roast worthy of a top restaurant.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4
Ingredients
- 500 g lean veal
- 1 large potato
- 1 carrot
- 1 onion
- 1 head of garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons of wine (white or red, depending on preference)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (parsley or dill)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 2-3 tablespoons of tomato juice or vegetable stew
- Oil for greasing the tray
Step by step for a perfect roast
1. Preparing the meat
The first essential step is to take the meat out of the refrigerator at least one hour before cooking. This allows the meat to reach room temperature, which helps achieve an even and juicy roast.
Once the meat has reached room temperature, wash it well under a stream of cold water. Then, cut it into slices of appropriate thickness, about 2-3 cm. Lightly score each slice here and there, which will help the spices and meat juices penetrate.
2. Seasoning the meat
An important trick: do not add salt to the slices of meat before cooking, as salt will draw the juices out of the meat and make it tougher. Instead, brush each slice with olive oil on both sides. This will help form a delicious crust during baking.
3. Preparing the vegetables
While preparing the meat, chop the vegetables. You can choose to cut them into cubes or slices, depending on your preferences. The onion, carrot, and potato will add flavor and contribute to a delicious sauce. Place the vegetables in a greased tray, making sure to distribute them evenly.
4. Preparing the sauce
In a bowl, mix 2-3 tablespoons of tomato juice or vegetable stew with a cup of water and salt. This combination will add moisture to the roast and create a savory sauce. Pour the mixture over the vegetables in the tray, ensuring everything is evenly covered.
5. Cooking the roast
Place the slices of meat on top of the vegetables in the tray. Season with freshly ground pepper and add the bay leaves. Preheat the oven to 180°C and put the tray in the oven for about an hour.
6. Basting with wine
When the roast is almost done, add a few tablespoons of wine on top. This step will intensify the flavors and add a refined note to the dish.
7. Resting the roast
After the roast is done, remove the tray from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices in the meat to redistribute, making the roast much juicier.
8. Serving
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs on top for an extra touch of freshness. You can accompany this roast with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad, which will add a pleasant contrast.
Useful tips and tricks
- Marinating the meat: If you have older or tougher meat, I recommend marinating it. You can prepare a marinade from chopped onion, sliced garlic, a few crushed coriander seeds, basil, half a teaspoon of honey dissolved in white wine, and a few sprigs of thyme. Let the meat marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight.
- Variations: You can experiment with different vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, or you can add specific spices according to your preferences, such as paprika or cumin.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of beef roast (approximately 125 g) contains around 250-300 calories, being an excellent source of protein, iron, and B vitamins. It can be part of a balanced diet, especially when served with fresh vegetables.
Frequently asked questions
1. Why is the meat tough after cooking?
- If the meat is not cooked at the right temperature or if it is salted too early, it can become tough. Make sure to follow the steps in the recipe.
2. Can I use beef from other cuts?
- Yes, you can use different types of beef, but it's important to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of the slices and the type of meat (for example, fattier beef may require a shorter cooking time).
3. What other dishes can the beef roast be paired with?
- This roast pairs perfectly with a dry red wine, a potato salad, or grilled vegetables. Fresh bread will also complement the meal even better.
A personal note
This beef roast recipe brings back memories of family gatherings in childhood, when meals were filled with laughter and stories. It is a recipe that not only nourishes but also brings people together around a table full of warmth and joy.
So, get ready to impress with a delicious, flavorful, and juicy roast that will surely become everyone's favorite!
Ingredients: 500 g lean veal meat, 1 large potato, 1 carrot, 1 onion, 1 head of garlic, 2-3 tablespoons of wine, salt, pepper, herbs, bay leaves, tomato juice
Tags: beef steak tender beef steak