What to Include in Your Traditional Sunday Roast
There are few culinary traditions as cherished in British culture as the Sunday roast.
This wholesome and widely beloved meal offers a comforting array of flavours and textures that warm both the heart and the belly. But, no other British dish is so divisive! In terms of what goes into a classic Sunday roast, every family has their own spin and traditions. With our Sunday dinner at d’Arry’s, we aim to provide the home comforts of tradition with our own elevated spin.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newcomer to the world of roasting, here’s your comprehensive guide to crafting the perfect traditional British Sunday roast for yourself.
History of the Sunday roast
The history of the Sunday roast in Britain traces back centuries, rooted in both culinary tradition and social customs.
Historically, Sunday was a day of rest and worship, with families attending church in the morning and returning home to enjoy a hearty meal together. Roasting meat over an open fire was a common cooking method in medieval times, and as cooking techniques evolved, so did the Sunday roast.
By the 18th century, roast beef had become synonymous with British identity, immortalised in literature and art as a symbol of national pride. Over time, the Sunday roast evolved to include a variety of meats, vegetables, and accompaniments, but its essence remained the same: a comforting meal that brings loved ones together to share in the simple pleasures of good food and company.
Roast potatoes
Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, roasted potatoes are a must-have. Parboil them first, then roast in hot oil until golden and crispy. Duck fat potatoes are by far the most tasty traditional side, but they are easily made vegetarian.
Cauliflower cheese
Cauliflower cheese is a beloved addition to a Sunday roast, offering a creamy and indulgent accompaniment to the hearty main course. Some will argue if this dish is traditional – we say it is! (And, our cauliflower cheese is especially delicious.)
Tender cauliflower florets are enveloped in a rich and cheesy sauce, then baked until golden and bubbling, creating a luscious side dish that perfectly balances the savoury flavours of the roast.
Stuffing
Whether you prefer sage and onion or chestnut stuffing, this savoury addition provides a flavourful contrast to the richness of the meat.
Yorkshire puddings
A quintessential accompaniment to roast beef, Yorkshire pudding is a classic side, made from a simple batter of flour, eggs, and milk, baked until golden and crispy.
Gravy
No roast is complete without a generous drizzle of rich, homemade gravy. Simmer pan drippings with stock and flour until thickened for the perfect finishing touch.
The main event: the meat!
At the heart of any Sunday lunch lies the main attraction: succulent, tender meat. While beef is the classic choice, other popular options include lamb, pork, or roast chicken. Whichever you choose, ensure it’s of the highest quality for optimal flavour and tenderness.
Roast Beef: Opt for cuts like sirloin, rib, or topside for tender and juicy beef roasts. Season generously with salt, pepper, and perhaps a hint of garlic before cooking your roast beef dinner to perfection.
Roast Lamb: Leg of lamb is the go-to choice for a traditional roast. Infuse it with garlic and rosemary for a fragrant and flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. Serve with mint sauce for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavours of the meat.
Roast Pork: For a crispy crackling and moist, tender meat, opt for cuts like pork loin, pork belly or shoulder. Rub the skin with salt before roasting to achieve that perfect crunch. A dollop of tangy apple sauce pairs beautifully with roast pork, cutting through the richness and adding a touch of sweetness.
Veggie alternatives
For those seeking veggie alternatives for a Sunday roast, there’s plenty of delicious options to explore, ensuring that everyone can partake in this beloved culinary tradition.
For veggie roast dinner recipes, consider hearty mains like roasted portobello mushrooms stuffed with garlic and herbs, or a savoury lentil loaf infused with aromatic spices. For a show-stopping centrepiece, a whole roasted cauliflower, marinated in a flavourful blend of tahini, lemon, and spices, is sure to impress.
Accompany these mains with classic sides such as crispy roast potatoes, buttery carrots, and seasonal greens, all elevated with fragrant herbs and zesty dressings.
With a bit of creativity and attention to flavours and textures, veggie alternatives for a Sunday roast can be every bit as satisfying and delicious as their meaty counterparts, offering a delightful feast for all to enjoy.
At d’Arry’s, we offer a roasted butternut squash, stuffed with pistachios, cranberries, lentils, rosemary and thyme – perfect for vegans, veggies, or anyone wanting an extra burst of flavour and goodness.
Come to d’Arry’s for the best Sunday roast in Cambridge!
If you want a classic, creative Sunday lunch with all the delicious trimmings, pay us a visit at d’Arry’s. From our spiced pork belly to our Yorkshire puds, our roast dinners are hearty, elevated, and showcase the very best of British cuisine.