How to Cook
Meat is cooked to enhance its natural flavour & tenderness. It's versatility lends
itself to a variety of different cuisines. There are many different ways of cooking
meat; the guide below will help you to choose the best method to cook your
favoured cuts.
During cooking the meat contracts and exudes some of its
juices, these form a brown, savoury coating on the surface
of the meat, which results in added flavour and accounts
for the popularity of roasted, grilled and pan fried meats.
Pan & Stir Frying
This is a quick method of cooking suitable for tender,
smaller pieces of meat. Either lightly oil the meat before
cooking or use a tablespoon of oil in your preheated pan or
wok. The meat should be turned from time to time until
evenly browned. The cooking times will vary according to
the thickness of the meat. The thicker the meat the longer
it will take.
Grilling & BBQ
Again this is a quick method of cooking, fierce heat is
applied directly to the meat. Always ensure that you
preheat your grill/BBQ before cooking. This like stir frying
is a healthy method of cooking as none or very little oil is
added to the meat. You can marinate the meat for extra
taste and succulence. Lean meat will need a little oil
brushed on to it prior to cooking.
Roasting
The easiest of all the cooking methods, follow the simple
guidelines below for a perfect roast;
- When buying the meat allow for the following weights per person.
100g boneless
225g bone-in
- Weigh the joint and calculate how long it needs to cook (Refer to chart below & preheat the oven to Gas mark 4-5, 180°C, 350°F).
- Place the joint in a roasting tin, uncovered & seasoned. Vary the seasoning and herbs to suit your individual taste.
- Ensure it is placed with the fat uppermost so that it melts during cooking to baste the joint and keep it succulent.
- Once cooked take the joint out of the oven and allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes before carving. This lets the meat relax and the juices distribute evenly making it easier to carve and the meat more succulent.
Slow Cooking
Again this is a quick method of cooking, fierce heat is
applied directly to the meat. Always ensure that you
preheat your grill/BBQ before cooking. This like stir frying
is a healthy method of cooking as none or very little oil is
added to the meat. You can marinate the meat for extra
taste and succulence. Lean meat will need a little oil
brushed on to it prior to cooking.