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What Is a Rolled Rump Roast?

Lori Kilchermann
Lori Kilchermann

Rolled rump roast is a culinary classic hailing from the robust rear leg of cattle. This cut is known for its lean profile and is often compared to the beef round steak in texture and taste. Expertly seasoned with just salt and pepper, the meat is meticulously rolled into a cylindrical shape and securely tied with kitchen twine to maintain its form during the slow-cooking process. 

The most popular recipes recommend gentle, prolonged heat application to ensure the roast remains succulent, suggesting the addition of broth to enrich the moisture content and safeguard against toughness\. Embrace the art of low and slow cooking with this guide to mastering what is a rolled rump roast, ensuring a tender, flavorful centerpiece for your next meal

Kitchen twine may be used to prevent rump roast from unrolling while cooking.
Kitchen twine may be used to prevent rump roast from unrolling while cooking.

Commonly considered a lower-quality cut, the rolled rump roast attempts to take advantage of its roast status to make slow-cooking and braising a preferred cooking method. When served as a round steak, this cut of meat can be very tough and difficult to digest. Rolling the meat and tying it creates a thicker piece of meat that is able to successfully endure a slow-roasting method of preparation, which often results in a more tender cut of meat when finished cooking. It is common for the roast to be browned in a skillet over very high heat before placing the meat into a roasting pan.

A rolled rump roast is very similar to a beef round steak since it has been seasoned with salt and pepper and rolled into a log shape.
A rolled rump roast is very similar to a beef round steak since it has been seasoned with salt and pepper and rolled into a log shape.

Once placed in the roasting pan, many cooks recommend placing beef broth or another type of liquid into the roasting pan. This provides moisture for a low and warm roasting process, and it works in concert to tenderize the meat. Some recipes call for beer or wine to be placed in with the roast, and the choice is typically a matter of personal preference. Vegetables are often placed into the roasting pan alongside of the rolled rump roast to add flavor and create a one-pan meal.

Rump roasting may take place in an oven with a roasting pan.
Rump roasting may take place in an oven with a roasting pan.

While salt and pepper are the traditional spices used inside a rolled rump roast, other spices can be used with equal success. Garlic is a popular spice that can be added to a rolled roast. The meat is often sliced and the garlic is placed inside of the cuts. Other methods call for the spice to be rubbed against the outside of the roast. Another method for tenderizing the rolled roast is to baste the meat with its own drippings as it cooks. Some recipes call for the addition of a beef stock to the roasting pan every 30 minutes as the meat cooks in the oven.

FAQ on Rolled Rump Roast

What is a rolled rump roast?

A rolled rump roast is log-shaped.
A rolled rump roast is log-shaped.

A rolled rump roast is a cut of beef that comes from the round, or rear end, of the cow. This cut is known for its leanness and is typically more flavorful than other lean cuts due to its location on the animal. It's called "rolled" because the meat is often rolled and tied with string to hold its shape during cooking, which helps it cook evenly and retain moisture.

How should you cook a rolled rump roast to ensure it's tender?

To ensure a tender rolled rump roast, it's best to cook it slowly at a low temperature. This can be done by roasting it in the oven or using a slow cooker. The key is to allow the connective tissues within the meat to break down without drying it out. Cooking it to an internal temperature of 145°F (medium-rare) to 160°F (medium) and letting it rest before slicing can also help maintain tenderness.

Can you recommend a good seasoning or marinade for a rolled rump roast?

For a rolled rump roast, a marinade with acidic components like red wine, vinegar, or lemon juice can help tenderize the meat. Seasonings such as garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper complement the beef's natural flavors. For a simple yet effective marinade, combine olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, and your choice of herbs, then let the roast marinate for several hours or overnight to enhance its flavor.

What are some side dishes that pair well with a rolled rump roast?

Classic side dishes that pair well with a rolled rump roast include roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions, which can be cooked in the same pan as the roast to absorb its flavors. Other great options are mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a fresh salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with Yorkshire pudding or a rich gravy made from the roast's drippings.

How long does it take to cook a rolled rump roast?

The cooking time for a rolled rump roast depends on its size and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, you should cook it in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 20-25 minutes per pound for medium-rare. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for 145°F for medium-rare and 160°F for medium. Remember to let the roast rest for at least 15 minutes before carving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Discussion Comments

backdraft
All the recipes I have found for rolled rump roast involve baking it. But I am wondering if it would be possible to grill or smoke the meat. Imagine how delicious that would taste.

Smoking seems possible, but I wonder if I grilled it how I would get the insides cooked before the outsides got burned. Any tips?

ZsaZsa56

I think this is a really creative way to turn a cheap piece of meat into something delicious. Can this same method be used on other cheap cuts of meat? The principle seems sound.

nextcorrea

It has always been a tradition in my family to make a rolled rump roast for Christmas dinner. It is usually the only time during the year that I eat one, but I really like it and look forward to the meal as soon as December rolls around.

We usually serve it with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, salad and bread. Nothing too fancy or exotic, just a bunch of really delicious food.

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    • Kitchen twine may be used to prevent rump roast from unrolling while cooking.
      By: img85h
      Kitchen twine may be used to prevent rump roast from unrolling while cooking.
    • A rolled rump roast is very similar to a beef round steak since it has been seasoned with salt and pepper and rolled into a log shape.
      By: uwimages
      A rolled rump roast is very similar to a beef round steak since it has been seasoned with salt and pepper and rolled into a log shape.
    • Rump roasting may take place in an oven with a roasting pan.
      By: Popova Olga
      Rump roasting may take place in an oven with a roasting pan.
    • A rolled rump roast is log-shaped.
      By: JJAVA
      A rolled rump roast is log-shaped.