The Art of Roasting Techniques

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The art of roasting is a technique that has been used for centuries. Even back before modern cooking techniques, people roasted food over open fires. Today, roasting is achieved by enclosing the item in a dry, hot, smoky environment. Usually, large meat that could feed many is commonly roasted, whereas smaller foods, like portion sizes, are baked. Roasting is common when the chef seeks a classic, meaty flavor. To properly roast meat, one will need a roasting pan and a roasting rack. The key to roasting is making sure the whole piece of meat is exposed to the same temperature, and the proper amount of juices are saved for re-applying. Other things needed to successfully roast meat are thermometers, twine for tying, knives and carving tools, a saucepan, strainer, a ladle, and a brush to add baste.

Before roasting, make sure that enough juices are in the meat due to the fact that roasting is a dry process, which means no liquid is used during the process. Also, while roasting, air will dry up a certain amount of juice inside the meat, so it’s important to have your meat properly injected. Allow time to remove fat on the surface before roasting. As mentioned before, tying the meat down with twine is pivotal in keeping a good shape along with achieving quality taste. Meats that are most commonly associated with roasting are as follows: tenderloin, tri-tip, lamb leg, and ham. Also, poultry is commonly roasted. If a chef was to roast fish, they would most certainly pick a fish with little fat like salmon or bass.

To start roasting, a chef has many options on what to do first. They must decide whether or not to sear the roast. Searing will add exuberant colors and add flavor to the fond. Next, the chef can roast the food without cov...

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...lit down the middle with a rod and turned horizontal and cooked from under. Poeleing can be used with birds and veal. Mixing up the sauce on a roast could add the perfect curveball that makes one better than another. Using a jus lie instead of a gravy will make the meat more delicate and starchy. It is made similar to the pan gravy except adding wine to a separate mirepoix.

Roasting is commonplace in the culinary world, but when executed, a good roast can’t be beat. Making sure all steps are followed and everything is cooked properly, roasting is a widely enjoyed cooking technique. Doneness and juices play a huge part in the final taste and reception, so make sure to determine how long and how fast your meat will be roasted. And finally, a good roast must include a good gravy or sauce to top it off. Without the cohesive flavors, a roast wouldn’t be the same.

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