How to Make a Sunday Roast

 

The Ultimate Guide to the Classic British Sunday Dinner

There’s nothing quite as comforting and traditional as a Sunday roast. For generations, families across Britain have gathered on Sunday afternoons to enjoy this hearty meal, complete with roasted meat, crispy potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and rich gravy. Whether you're cooking for your family or impressing guests, here’s a simple guide to making the perfect Sunday roast at home.

--- published by foodie Parmod.

🥩 What is a Sunday Roast?

A Sunday roast is a traditional British meal typically served on Sunday afternoons. It usually features roasted meat (like beef, chicken, lamb, or pork), roast potatoes, Yorkshire puddings, vegetables, stuffing, and gravy. It’s a meal that brings people together and fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas.

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🛒 Ingredients for a Classic Sunday Roast

For the Roast:

1.5–2kg joint of beef, chicken, lamb, or pork

Salt and black pepper

Olive oil or vegetable oil

Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional)

4 garlic cloves (optional)

For the Roast Potatoes:

1kg Maris Piper or King Edward potatoes

Salt

Goose fat or vegetable oil

For the Vegetables:

3–4 carrots, peeled and chopped

1 head of broccoli or cauliflower

Peas or green beans

Butter (for serving)

For the Yorkshire Puddings (if serving with beef):

140g plain flour

4 eggs

200ml milk

Pinch of salt

Sunflower oil

For the Gravy:

1–2 tbsp meat juices from the roast

1 tbsp plain flour

500ml beef or chicken stock

Salt and pepper to taste

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🍽 Method: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Meat

Preheat your oven to 200°C (fan 180°C) or Gas Mark 6.

Rub your chosen joint of meat with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of oil. Add herbs and garlic if using.

Place it in a roasting tray and roast according to the type of meat:

Beef (medium-rare): 20 mins per 500g + 20 mins

Chicken: 20 mins per 500g + 30 mins

Lamb or pork: 25 mins per 500g + 25 mins

Baste occasionally with its juices.

Once done, remove from the oven, cover with foil, and rest for 20 minutes before carving.

2. Make Roast Potatoes

Peel and chop potatoes into even chunks.

Boil in salted water for 10 minutes, then drain and shake in the pan to roughen edges.

Heat goose fat or oil in a tray until sizzling, then carefully add the potatoes and turn to coat.

Roast for 45–60 minutes at 200°C, turning occasionally, until golden and crispy.

3. Cook the Vegetables

Steam or boil your chosen veg just before serving.

Toss with a knob of butter and season to taste.

4. Make Yorkshire Puddings (if serving)

Whisk flour, eggs, milk, and salt into a smooth batter. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

Heat a muffin tin with a little oil in each hole at 220°C until very hot.

Quickly pour in the batter and bake for 20–25 minutes until puffed and golden.

5. Make the Gravy

Spoon off excess fat from the meat tray but keep 1–2 tbsp of juices.

Stir in flour to make a roux, then gradually add stock, stirring to remove lumps.

Simmer until thickened, season, and strain if desired.

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👨‍🍳 Tips for a Perfect Sunday Roast

Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.

Let meat rest before carving – it helps keep the juices in.

Make ahead: Yorkshire pudding batter and veg can be prepped earlier in the day.

Add stuffing or pigs in blankets for extra indulgence.

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🥂 Serving the Sunday Roast

Carve the meat and serve it alongside roast potatoes, vegetables, and Yorkshire puddings. Pour over plenty of rich gravy and enjoy with a dollop of horseradish (for beef), mint sauce (for lamb), or apple sauce (for pork). A glass of red wine or cider pairs beautifully with the meal.

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🧾 Final Thoughts

A Sunday roast is more than just a meal – it’s a cherished tradition that celebrates family, flavour, and comfort. With a little preparation and care, you can create a delicious roast dinner that everyone will love.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, warm up the oven, and enjoy the unbeatable satisfaction of a homemade Sunday roast.

--- write ✍️ by foodie Parmod.