Winter is the perfect time to enjoy hearty, comforting meals, and there’s nothing quite like a delicious roast to warm you up.
From tender beef rib roast to succulent pork belly, our wholesale butchers are sharing six roast ideas that will level up your winter dinners!
Winter comfort: roast meal ideas for cosy nights in
These roast meal ideas are sure to bring comfort on chilly winter evenings. Ideal for any winter occasion, these meals are both hearty and flavourful.
1. Beef rib roast
Beef rib roast is also known as a standing rib roast or prime rib. It’s a flavourful and tender dish known for its rich marbling and juicy texture. A favourite during the winter months!
Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Allow the roast to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Begin by searing the roast at a high temperature (around 220°C) for the first 15-20 minutes. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 160°C to finish cooking to your desired doneness.
We recommend using a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Aim for an internal temperature of 50-55°C for medium-rare.
Pair with classic sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, and a rich red wine gravy. For an extra kick, horseradish cream sauce works well!
2. Lamb leg
Lamb leg roast is a succulent option for a winter feast. It offers a rich flavour that pairs well with a variety of sides.
Marinate the lamb overnight with garlic, lemon, olive oil, and herbs, before slow roasting at 160°C. This ‘low & slow’ method ensures the meat becomes tender and juicy, allowing the natural flavours to shine. It also helps in rendering the fat, resulting in a beautifully crisp exterior.
A leg of lamb pairs beautifully with mint sauce or a red wine reduction. Serve it alongside roasted root vegetables and a creamy potato mash. It’s the perfect meal on a chilly winter night!
3. Whole chicken
A whole chicken is a comforting and versatile option, ideal for a hearty winter meal. Roasting the chicken whole keeps it moist and flavourful, with a crispy skin that’s hard to resist. Season the chicken inside and out with salt, pepper, and your favourite herbs.
The secret to a juicy chicken is basting. By basting the chicken with its own juices or a simple butter mixture, you enhance the flavour and ensure even cooking. This process keeps the meat tender and juicy. Roast the chicken at 200°C, basting every 20-30 minutes.
Serve with classic sides like roasted potatoes, steamed greens, and a rich gravy made from the pan drippings. A delightful winter dinner the whole family will love!
4. Duck breast
Duck breast roast is a rich and indulgent choice for a winter meal, known for its deep flavour and crispy skin.
To prepare, score the skin to help render the fat. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of five-spice powder for an aromatic twist.
Roast the duck at 180°C, allowing the fat to render slowly, which results in a crispy skin and tender meat. This usually takes about 45 minutes to an hour, but always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 65°C for medium-rare.
Duck pairs beautifully with citrusy and tangy accompaniments like orange glaze or cherry sauce. Citrus flavours complement the richness of the duck, while tart sauces add a lovely flavour contrast.
Serve with roasted root vegetables and a side of wild rice for a balanced and sophisticated winter meal.
5. Pork belly
Pork belly is ideal for a cosy winter meal. Known for its rich layers of fat and meat, it offers a deliciously crispy crackling when cooked properly. To prepare, score the skin and rub it with a generous amount of salt to draw out moisture. This will help to ensure a crispy finish.
The key to a perfectly crisp pork belly is slow roasting at a low temperature. Cook the pork belly at 160°C for several hours to render the fat and achieve tender, melt-in-the-mouth meat beneath that crispy exterior.
Finish with a high-temperature blast of 220°C for the last 20-30 minutes to crisp up the skin. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 75°C.
Pork belly pairs nicely with both sweet and savoury sides. Apple sauce or a tangy slaw complements the richness of the meat and provides a refreshing contrast. Serve alongside roasted vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty winter feast.
6. Beef brisket
While brisket is popular for smoking during the summer, it can also be enjoyed in the winter with indoor cooking methods that yield equally delicious results.
To prepare, season the brisket generously with a blend of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Sear on all sides in a hot pan to develop a deep, caramelised crust. Transfer it to a roasting pan, add a cup of beef broth or red wine for moisture, and cover tightly with foil.
Roast the brisket at 150°C for several hours, typically 3-4 hours, until it reaches an internal temperature of 90°C. This slow cooking process ensures the meat is tender and flavourful.
Beef brisket pairs wonderfully with creamy polenta, BBQ sauce, and a tangy coleslaw.
Warm up this winter with our top roast picks
Whether you’re hosting a special dinner with friends or enjoying a dinner with your family, we hope these roast ideas bring warmth and joy to your winter meals!
Don’t forget, you can buy meat online or visit our friendly butchers in-store for expert tips and advice on selecting the right cut for your winter menu.
This guidance is general only. We take no liability for cooking temperatures and ensuring your meat is cooked properly. Please use your own discretion and a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
