How to Cook Spoon Roast: A Step-by-Step Guide
What is Spoon Roast?
Spoon roast is a type of roasted beef cut that is popular in many parts of the world. It is also known as "bolar blade roast" or "shoulder top blade roast". This cut of beef comes from the shoulder area of the cow and is known for its rich flavor and tender texture. The name "spoon roast" comes from the shape of the roast, which resembles a spoon.
Preparing the Spoon Roast
Before cooking the spoon roast, you need to prepare it properly. Here are some steps to follow:
- Trim the fat: Trim any excess fat from the roast to prevent it from burning during cooking. You can use a knife or a pair of kitchen shears to trim the fat.
- Season the roast: Rub the roast with salt, pepper, and any other seasonings you like. You can also marinate the roast in your favorite marinade for a few hours or overnight.
- Bring the roast to room temperature: Take the roast out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking. This will help the roast cook more evenly.
Cooking the Spoon Roast
Now that the roast is prepared, it’s time to cook it. Here are some steps to follow:
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). This is a low temperature that will help the roast cook slowly and evenly.
- Sear the roast: Place the roast in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until it is browned. This will help lock in the juices and add flavor to the roast.
- Add liquid: Add 2-3 cups of liquid (such as beef broth, wine, or stock) to the pot. This will help keep the roast moist and add flavor to the dish.
- Cover the pot: Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Cook the roast: Cook the roast for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the roast.
Checking the Doneness
Here are some ways to check the doneness of the spoon roast:
- Internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the roast. The roast should reach an internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, 145°F (63°C) for medium, and 155°F (68°C) for medium-well.
- Tender test: Check the roast for tenderness by cutting into it with a sharp knife. If the roast is tender and falls apart easily, it is cooked to your liking.
- Visual inspection: Check the roast for visual signs of doneness, such as a nice brown color and a tender texture.
Resting the Roast
Once the roast is cooked, it’s important to let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help the juices redistribute and the roast to retain its tenderness. Here are some steps to follow:
- Remove the roast: Remove the roast from the oven and let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Transfer to a platter: Transfer the roast to a platter and let it rest for a few more minutes.
- Serve: Slice the roast and serve it with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and gravy.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips and variations to keep in mind:
- Use a crock pot: You can also cook the spoon roast in a crock pot. Simply brown the roast in a skillet, then transfer it to the crock pot with your favorite seasonings and liquid. Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
- Add aromatics: Add some aromatics, such as onions, carrots, and celery, to the pot for added flavor.
- Use different seasonings: Try using different seasonings, such as garlic, paprika, and thyme, to add flavor to the roast.
- Make it a pot roast: You can also make a pot roast by cooking the roast with some potatoes, carrots, and onions. This will create a hearty, comforting dish.
Recipe: Spoon Roast with Horseradish Cream
Here is a recipe for spoon roast with horseradish cream:
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pounds spoon roast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup horseradish cream (see below)
Horseradish Cream:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Season the roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until it is browned.
- Add the butter to the pot and stir until it is melted.
- Add the beef broth to the pot and bring to a simmer.
- Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
- Cook the roast for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving with horseradish cream.
Conclusion
Spoon roast is a delicious and tender cut of beef that is perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can cook a mouth-watering spoon roast that is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. Whether you serve it with horseradish cream or another of your favorite sauces, spoon roast is a dish that is sure to become a family favorite.