Perfect Roasting Times for Meat: A Butcher’s Guide

When it comes to cooking meat to perfection, proper roasting times are key. As experienced butchers, we understand the importance of achieving succulent and flavourful results. That’s why we’re here to share our tried-and-true roasting instructions, ensuring that your beef, lamb, pork, chicken, and turkey dishes come out delicious every time.

Beef & Lamb

For medium to large joints weighing up to 5kg (11 lb), follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (Gas Mark 7).
2. Roast the meat at this temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Reduce the oven temperature to 160°C (Gas Mark 3) and continue roasting according to the following guidelines:
   • Rare: 20 minutes per Kg (9 minutes per pound)
   • Medium: 30 minutes per Kg (14 minutes per pound)
   • Well Done: 40 minutes per Kg (18 minutes per pound)
4. Remove the joint from the oven and let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

For very large joints weighing above 5kg (11 lb), adjust the cooking times as follows:

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (Gas Mark 7).
2. Roast the meat at this temperature for 40 minutes.
3. Reduce the oven temperature to 160°C (Gas Mark 3) and continue roasting according to the following guidelines:
   • Rare: 18 minutes per Kg (8 minutes per pound)
   • Medium: 24 minutes per Kg (11 minutes per pound)
   • Well Done: 36 minutes per Kg (16 minutes per pound)
4. Remove the joint from the oven and let it rest for 30 minutes before carving.

Chateaubriand

For a perfectly cooked Chateaubriand, weighing between 700g to 800g, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to gas 4-5/ 190-200°C.
2. Remove the meat from the fridge 1 hour before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
3. Lightly season the beef with pepper, but avoid salting it at this stage.
4. In a hot frying pan with a small amount of oil, seal the meat for 2 minutes on each side to achieve a light brown colour. Then transfer it to a roasting tin.
5. Place the roasting tin in the preheated oven and cook for approximately:
   • Rare: 12 minutes
   • Medium: 18 minutes
   • Well Done: 25 minutes (Note: These times are a guide, and you may need to check the meat’s doneness using a skewer or the tip of a small knife.)
6. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 10-12 minutes before seasoning with salt and cutting.

Pork

To roast pork to perfection, follow these instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 220°C (Gas Mark 7).
2. Roast the pork for 30 minutes at this temperature.
3. Reduce the oven temperature to 160°C (Gas Mark 3) and continue roasting for 50 minutes per Kg (23 minutes per pound).
4. Remove the joint from the oven and check that the juices run clear.
5. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

Chicken

Roasting a chicken to tender perfection is easy with the following steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 210°C (Gas Mark 6).
2. Roast the chicken for 20 minutes at this temperature.
3. Reduce the oven temperature to 180°C (Gas Mark 4) and continue roasting according to the chicken’s size:
   • Small chicken: 45 minutes
   • Large chicken: 70 minutes
4. Remove the joint from the oven and check that the juices run clear.
5. Let it rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Turkey

Whether you’re cooking a whole turkey, turkey breast, or crown, these guidelines will ensure a delicious result:

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) Gas 4/5.
2. Remove all packaging from the turkey as soon as possible and store it in a cool place, preferably at the bottom of your fridge.
3. Take the turkey out of the fridge 2 hours before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature.
4. Season the turkey lightly with salt and pepper, and avoid stuffing the main cavity.
5. Enhance the taste and tenderness of your meat by regularly basting it with its own juices during cooking.
6. After an hour of cooking, carefully turn the bird onto its back to further cook and achieve a beautifully browned breast.
7. Invest in a cooking thermometer for precise results. Aim for an internal temperature of around 68ºC or test with a fork in the thigh—juices should run clear when the bird is ready.
8. After removing from the oven, cover your bird with foil and let it rest for about 20 minutes. This allows the meat to relax and retain its juices for a more succulent carving experience.
9. Remember that turkey cooking times are not fixed. Always check the thickest part (usually the thigh) to ensure clear juices before serving, adjusting cooking times as needed.
   

Cooking Times for Whole Birds and Crowns (based on a rough guide):

1. 1. 4kg: Approximately 2 hours
   2. 5kg: Around 2 to 2 ½ hours
   3. 6kg: About 2 ¼ to 2 ½ hours
   4. 7kg: Roughly 2 ½ to 2 ¾ hours
   5. 8kg: Approximately 2 ¾ to 3 hours
   6. 9kg: Around 3 to 3 ¼ hours
   7. For larger birds, check every 15 minutes after 3 hours.

Cooking Times for Breast Joints (based on a rough guide):

1. 1. 1kg: Approximately 1 hour
   2. 1.5kg: Around 1 ¼ hours
   3. 2kg: Roughly 1 ½ hours
   4. For larger joints, check every 15 minutes after 1 ½ hours.

Remember, these times are approximate and can vary based on your oven and your meat. Keep an eye on the juices, the temperature and adjust accordingly for optimal results.

Unlocking the Nutritional Power of Meat: A Guide to Health and Nutrition Benefits

In our quest for a balanced and nutritious diet, the role of meat cannot be overlooked. Packed with essential nutrients like proteins, vitamins, and minerals, incorporating lean and healthy meat choices into our regular meals can significantly contribute to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. In this blog post, we will explore the health and nutrition benefits of different types of meat options, providing valuable insights into why they should be an integral part of our diet. So, let’s dive in!

The Nutritional Power of Chicken

Chicken, one of the most versatile meats, is not only delicious but also offers impressive health benefits. It is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and hormone production. Moreover, chicken is low in saturated fat which can help with weight management. To make the most of this lean meat, opt for skinless cuts and try mouthwatering recipes like grilled chicken breast with roasted vegetables or a hearty chicken stir-fry loaded with colourful veggies.

Beef: A Nutrient-Rich Powerhouse

Beef, known for its rich flavour and hearty texture, provides an array of essential nutrients. It is an excellent source of iron, crucial for transporting oxygen throughout the body and preventing anaemia. Additionally, beef contains vitamin B12, which supports brain function and nervous system health. When choosing beef, opt for lean cuts like sirloin, tenderloin, or flank steak. Enjoy a nutritious meal by preparing a lean beef salad with mixed greens, or savour a delicious beef stir-fry packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic spices.

The Wholesome Benefits of Pork

Pork, often associated with succulent dishes, also offers notable health benefits. It is an excellent source of thiamine (vitamin B1), which supports energy metabolism and helps maintain a healthy nervous system. Moreover, pork is rich in essential amino acids and provides important minerals such as zinc and selenium. When selecting pork, choose lean cuts like tenderloin or loin chops. Try preparing a flavorful pork tenderloin marinated with herbs and spices or a grilled pork chop served with a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal.

Selecting and Incorporating Lean Meats

When choosing lean meat cuts, look for those with minimal visible fat and opt for skinless poultry options. Incorporate lean meats into your meals by grilling, baking, or sautéing them with minimal oil. Pair them with vibrant vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats for a well-rounded and nutritious plate. Remember to practice portion control and enjoy a varied diet that includes other protein sources like legumes, tofu, or dairy products.

Incorporating a variety of lean and healthy meat choices into our regular diet can be valuable for maintaining a balanced and nutritious lifestyle. Chicken, beef and pork offer unique health and nutrition benefits, from high-quality proteins to essential vitamins and minerals. By making smart meat selections and preparing them in wholesome ways, we can enjoy delicious meals while nourishing our bodies. Remember, a healthy lifestyle encompasses diverse food choices, regular exercise, and mindful eating habits. So, embrace the power of meat and savour the journey towards optimal health and well-being.

Are you looking to choose the ideal cut of meat for your next recipe? With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to make the right choice. From tenderloin to ribeye, each cut of meat has a unique texture, toughness, and flavour. Let’s explore different cuts of meat, including beef, pork, lamb, and chicken, to help you choose the right one for your cooking style and recipe.

Beef:

1. Filet Mignon: This is the most tender cut of beef, located in the loin area. It has a mild flavour and is best prepared by grilling or broiling.
2. Ribeye: This cut comes from the rib section and is popular for its rich, beefy flavour. It’s also marbled with fat, which makes it juicy and tender. It works well when grilled, pan-fried, or roasted.
3. Sirloin: This leaner beef cut comes from the cow’s rear. It has a bold, beefy flavour and is best prepared by grilling, broiling, or pan-frying.
4. Brisket: This cut comes from the chest area and is known for its tenderness and intense flavour. It’s best cooked low and slow, making it a great option for smokers or slow cookers.

Pork:

1. Pork Tenderloin: This is the most tender cut of pork and is perfect for grilling, roasting, or pan-frying. It has a mild flavour that pairs well with marinades or seasonings.
2. Pork Chop: This cut comes from the loin and has a rich, porky flavour. It’s best prepared by grilling, broiling, or pan-frying.
3. Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking or smoking. It has a lot of connective tissue, which, when cooked properly, creates a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
4. Pork Belly: This cut is known for its rich flavour and juiciness. It’s best prepared by braising or roasting.

Lamb:

1. Lamb Leg: This is the most common cut of lamb and is perfect for roasting. It has a mild flavour and tender texture.
2. Lamb Chops: These are small, lean cuts of lamb that are perfect for grilling or broiling. They have a bold, gamey flavour.
3. Lamb Shoulder: This cut is best for slow cooking or braising. It has a rich, intense flavour that pairs well with spices or herbs.
4. Rack of Lamb: This cut is perfect for special occasions and is typically roasted. It has a tender texture and mild flavour.

Chicken:

1. Breast: This is the most popular chicken cut and is perfect for grilling, baking, or pan-frying. It’s lean and mild in flavour.
2. Thighs: These cuts are juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts. They’re perfect for grilling, baking, or slow cooking.
3. Drumsticks: These are juicy, flavorful cuts of chicken that are perfect for grilling or baking.
4. Wings: These are small, versatile cuts of chicken that can be grilled, baked, fried, or even smoked. They’re perfect for parties or game days.

When choosing the ideal meat cut, remember that each cut requires a different cooking technique. For example, tougher cuts like brisket or pork shoulder are best cooked low and slow, while leaner cuts like filet mignon or pork tenderloin can be prepared quickly on the grill or in the oven. Additionally, different cuisines may require different cuts of meat. For example, beef is commonly used in stews and slow-cooked dishes, while chicken breast is often used in salads or sandwiches.

Lastly, seasoning and marinades can add an extra layer of flavour to your meat. Experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the natural flavour of your chosen cut. With these tips and recommendations, you can select the perfect cut of meat for your recipe and cooking style, resulting in delicious, juicy meat every time.

If you are still unsure about the meat cut you require, just ask a member of our friendly team. 

Summer is coming (we’re not sure about the weather), so it’s time to dust off your BBQs and get ready to cook up a storm. But before you get started, let’s talk about where you can get the best meat for your BBQ. And no, I’m not talking about the pre-packaged stuff from the supermarket. I’m talking about the juicy, succulent meat sourced from your local butcher.

We know a thing or two about meat and can help you select the perfect cuts for your BBQ. From beef burgers, sausages, lamb chops, and chicken thighs, a good butcher can supply all your BBQ needs.

Burgers & Sausages

Now, let’s get down to the juicy bit- what food items are the best for grilling on a BBQ? Well burgers and sausages are your standard BBQ cuisine. Now, we might be biased, but we think that the Lincolnshire sausage is perfect for the BBQ!! But, you can also pick up a whole host of top quality sausages, from cumberland to pork and apple and even some of our low fat Lincolnshire sausages.

When it comes to burgers,  we’ve got you covered here too with our quarter pounders or if you fancy something a little different, our minted burgers are just delicious. But, if you fancy having a go at making your own burgers, you can pick up some of our mince and give it a go yourself. You can choose from beef, pork, turkey or chicken (or a combination), mix your egg and then it’s time to get adventurous. You can choose different flavour combinations and see how they turn out on your BBQ. You can add Jalepinos, herbs, spices, onion, sauces (be careful with these) or even stuff your bugers with cheese. The possibilities are endless.

Ribs

Next up, we have the king of BBQ meats- ribs. Whether you prefer baby back or spare ribs, we can supply them. You can choose from a variety of flavours or you can marinate the ribs yourself overnight in a sauce of your choice- honey, BBQ, and teriyaki are all flavours that go great with ribs. Slow cook them on the BBQ for a few hours until they’re tender and falling off the bone.

Steak

Cooking your steak on the BBQ can add a whole new dimension of flavour to your meat!! The heat from the flames perfectly chargrill the outside of your steak. But, make sure you take your meat out of the fridge at least two hours before cooking to allow it to reach room temperature. Heat your BBQ and brush your grate with oil. Gas BBQs are great for cooking on, but charcoal BBQs add the real flavour to your meat. Adding flavoured woodchips to your BBQ can infuse the meat with a subtle flavour – if you like to experiment with different flavours. 

Try to avoid playing with your steak while it cooks, learning how long to leave your steak until it is done is a must. Typically the timings for a 2cm thick piece of steak would be as follows (please be aware, these are rough estimates and will depend on the heat of your BBQ) 

• Blue – 1 minute on each side
• Rare – 1.5 minutes on each side
• Medium rare – 2 minutes on each side
• Medium – 2.5 minutes on each side
• Medium to well done – 3 minutes on each side

So, there you have it-  tips for a successful BBQ party. Over to you! To get started, just book your delivery with us or visit us on Ashby High Street or in St John’s Maket, Scunthorpe.