Winter Roasts and Braises: 3 Tasty Examples

Warm up your winter with these three comforting roast and braise recipes that are perfect for the season.
By Taylor

Embracing the Comfort of Winter Roasts and Braises

As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and comfort of a hearty winter roast or braise. These cooking methods allow flavors to meld beautifully, creating tender, juicy dishes that are perfect for cozy evenings at home or gatherings with family and friends. Let’s explore three diverse examples of winter roasts and braises that are sure to become seasonal favorites.

1. Herb-Crusted Beef Roast

Context

A classic choice for any winter dinner, a herb-crusted beef roast is not only impressive but also relatively easy to prepare, making it perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.

This roast is seasoned with a fragrant mix of herbs, resulting in a flavorful crust that locks in the juices as it cooks. Pair it with roasted root vegetables for a complete meal.

The recipe can serve 6-8 people, making it ideal for holiday dinners or Sunday feasts.

Example

To prepare the herb-crusted beef roast, you will need:

  • 4-5 lb boneless beef ribeye roast
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
  2. In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create a paste.
  3. Rub the herb paste all over the beef roast, coating it evenly.
  4. Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan and roast for 20 minutes.
  5. Reduce the temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (135°F for medium-rare, about 1 hour more).
  6. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite roasted vegetables.

Notes

  • You can substitute other herbs like parsley or oregano based on your preference.
  • For a richer flavor, sear the roast in a hot pan for 4-5 minutes on each side before roasting.

2. Braised Lamb Shanks with Root Vegetables

Context

Braised lamb shanks are a delicious and sophisticated dish that is surprisingly simple to make. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner that feels fancy but allows you to spend time with your guests while it cooks.

The slow cooking process tenderizes the meat and melds the flavors of the lamb with the earthy taste of root vegetables.

Example

You’ll need:

  • 4 lamb shanks
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 carrots, chopped
  • 3 parsnips, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Season the lamb shanks with salt and pepper.
  3. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the shanks until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.
  4. Remove the shanks from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, parsnips, and garlic. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
  5. Pour in the red wine and scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Add the broth and return the lamb shanks to the pot. Add the rosemary.
  7. Cover and place in the oven. Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
  8. Serve the shanks over mashed potatoes or polenta, ladling the rich sauce over the top.

Notes

  • For a different flavor, try using white wine and adding a splash of balsamic vinegar.
  • You can substitute the root vegetables with your favorites like turnips or sweet potatoes.

3. Winter Vegetable and Chickpea Stew

Context

Not every winter dish has to be meat-based! This hearty winter vegetable and chickpea stew is a comforting, plant-based option that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or for meal prep to keep you warm throughout the week.

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to use seasonal vegetables that you have on hand.

Example

You will need:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 parsnips, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, chopped
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft (about 5 minutes).
  2. Stir in the carrots and parsnips; cook for another 5 minutes.
  3. Add the zucchini, chickpeas, broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  5. Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • This stew can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and freezes well.
  • For added protein, feel free to include other beans or lentils.

These examples of winter roasts and braises not only provide cozy meals but also allow you to enjoy the flavors of the season. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, these dishes are sure to warm your spirit and satisfy your appetite!