For many families Sunday isn’t Sunday without a traditional roast. But whether you prefer it on a Sunday or are even partial to having one in the week, it is the perfect dish to enjoy with loved ones on cold autumn days.
However it can sometimes be tricky to get the popular dish just right and for many it seems a little complicated as well as taking up too much time for the cook. But Food and Flavour Expert, Phil Bianchi, from The Gift Of Oil, says there are ways to get it spot on without spending hours in the kitchen.
And whether it is the preparation or the cooking, he says using his tips can make it healthier and quicker. Here’s his four quick tips:
Stop peeling
If you’re a fan of multiple veg options, you’ll know the painful process of peeling potatoes, carrot, parsnips and anything else you like. But you really don’t need to bother!
Skin-on roasted vegetables are actually delicious and can enhance the flavour. The skins of vegetables are also packed with vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants, so by removing them you’re reducing the good stuff too!
Airfryer baby potatoes
Baby potatoes are a quicker way to get the perfect roasties – without compromising on the taste or taking too much time. Simply add one layer of baby potatoes into the airfryer, cover with infused olive oil and add seasoning.
Air fry the potatoes at 200°C for 25 minutes and you’ll have roast potatoes that are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside in no time at all. Forget par boiling, chopping, heating up oil – just make life simple!
Prep and fresh
Premaking some parts of the roast in a batch ahead of time is perfectly acceptable. Items like roasted veg, stuffing, and gravy can all be premade and frozen to lock in the delicious flavours.
A great trick is to place a little heatproof cup of water into the microwave or oven and the natural steam will keep the food nice and soft as it reheats. For sauces, drizzle in some olive oil after heating and this will prevent the sauce from congealing.
Forget the ‘showstopper’
Hours can be spent in the kitchen working on a good looking golden chicken or slow cooked lamb. But ultimately you will end up slicing it up and serving it separately.
Save time by opting for smaller meats such as chicken legs or even swap your red meat for a steak. This will dramatically reduce the time spent slaving over meats, allowing you to enjoy more time enjoying the company of your guests or family members.