Master the art of cooking roast beef with a rich caramelised onion gravy for a perfect holiday or Sunday dinner

Sarah Cook introduces a roast beef recipe that transforms the classic dish with a caramelised onion gravy, achieving a high satisfaction rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 19 reviews. This dish is tailored for those seeking to impress with a sumptuous centrepiece at their dinner table.

The recipe commences with the preparation of the beef, where Sarah recommends marinating the topside joint overnight, although this step is optional. The marinade consists of crushed black peppercorns, English mustard powder, dried thyme, celery seeds, and olive oil. This mixture is rubbed thoroughly over the beef to infuse it with robust flavours. If time permits, allowing the beef to marinate overnight enhances the depth of these flavours, making the roast exceptionally tender and aromatic.

For roasting, the oven should be preheated to 190°C (375°F). The beef is then placed in a snug roasting tin and cooked according to the desired level of doneness, with specific timings provided for achieving either medium-rare or medium-well conditions. Once roasted, the beef should rest covered for 30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is moist and flavorful.

The caramelised onion gravy is a standout feature of this recipe. Sarah’s method involves using the fat separated from the roasting juices as a base to which flour, beef stock cubes, caramelised onion chutney or marmalade, and yeast extract are added. This mixture is cooked directly in the roasting tin, incorporating all the flavorful bits left from the beef. The resultant gravy is rich, with a perfect balance of sweetness and umami from the onion chutney and yeast extract, complementing the savoury depth of the roast beef.

Nutritionally, the roast beef with caramelised onion gravy offers substantial protein content, making it a satisfying meal that also aligns with dietary concerns by being low in salt. The dish also includes a moderate amount of fats and carbohydrates, ensuring a balanced meal when served with sides such as roasted vegetables or a green salad.

In essence, Sarah Cook’s roast beef with caramelised onion gravy recipe not only provides a detailed guide to preparing a mouth-watering meal but also caters to those looking to elevate their cooking repertoire. This recipe is ideal for anyone wanting to create a memorable dining experience at home, proving that traditional dishes can be both simple and sophisticated.