Are you curious about topside beef and what it actually is? If you’re in the USA, you may know it as top round.
This lean cut of beef comes from the cow’s thigh, also known as the rump. It’s a versatile cut that can be roasted, stir-fried, or used in dishes like beef bourguignon.
While it may be considered the “poor man’s sirloin,” topside beef is a great choice for a family dinner or even an extravagant Sunday roast.
In this article, we’ll explore more about topside beef and how to cook it to perfection. So, let’s dive in and discover all there is to know about this delicious cut of meat.
What Is Topside Beef In USA?
As mentioned earlier, topside beef is known as top round in the USA. It’s a cut of beef that comes from the round of the cow, which is located above the back legs of the animal. This particular cut is one of the leanest cuts of beef available, making it a healthier option for those who are conscious about their diet.
The topside cut is the closest one to the back end of the animal, with the sirloin and tenderloin cuts directly next to it. It’s a boneless cut that’s usually sold rolled and tied, ready for oven roasting. If you can, choose a topside joint with a thin layer of fat on top – this will baste the meat as it cooks.
What Is Topside Beef?
Topside beef is a cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters of the cow. It is a long and lean thigh muscle that is heavier and harder than other steaks. As a result of its low fat content, topside beef is one of the leanest cuts of beef available, making it a healthier option for those who are conscious about their diet.
The topside cut is located above the back legs of the animal, just above the shank. It has no bones in it and is taken from a frequently used and powerful muscle. This means that it can be tough if not cooked using the right techniques.
To keep the meat moist, it’s best to cook topside beef slowly in a covered dish with a small amount of stock in the bottom. Covering the cooking dish prevents the moisture from escaping, making the resulting meat juicier. Searing the meat in a frying pan prior to cooking can also help to keep moisture inside the meat.
Topside beef can be used in many different dishes, such as beef bourguignon, pot roast, stew, casserole, and it can also be roasted whole or stir-fried. Leftovers make great beef sandwiches too! Despite being a fairly economical cut, topside of beef packs a lot of flavour due to its location on the animal’s hindquarter.
Topside Beef Vs. Other Cuts Of Beef
When it comes to choosing a cut of beef, there are several options available. While topside beef is a lean and healthy option, there are other cuts of beef that may be more suitable for certain dishes.
For example, prime rib roast is a popular choice for a roast beef dish. This cut comes from the rib section of the cow and has a higher fat content than topside beef, which makes it more flavorful and juicy when cooked. Similarly, rump roast is another popular choice for roasting, as it has a good balance of fat and meat.
Eye fillet butt is a tender and flavorful cut that’s perfect for steak dishes. It’s located in the short loin section of the cow and has a high fat content, which makes it ideal for grilling or pan-frying. On the other hand, bolar blade roast is a tougher cut that’s best suited for slow-cooking methods like braising or stewing.
When it comes to stir-fry dishes, topside beef is a versatile option that can be thinly sliced and quickly cooked in a pan. However, top round steak is another option that can be used for stir-fry dishes. This cut comes from the upper thigh of the hindquarters of the cow and is more tender than other cuts from the round.
Nutritional Value Of Topside Beef
Topside beef is a great source of protein, iron, and other important nutrients that are essential for maintaining a healthy body. A 3-ounce serving of topside beef contains approximately 25 grams of protein, which is important for building and repairing muscles. It also contains around 2 milligrams of iron, which is crucial for maintaining healthy blood cells and preventing anemia.
In addition to protein and iron, topside beef is also a good source of other important nutrients such as zinc, vitamin B12, and niacin. Zinc is important for maintaining a healthy immune system, while vitamin B12 is essential for proper brain function and nervous system health. Niacin is important for maintaining healthy skin and supporting the digestive system.
It’s worth noting that topside beef is a lean cut of meat, which means it contains less fat than other cuts of beef. This makes it a healthier option for those who are watching their calorie intake or trying to maintain a healthy weight. However, it’s important to keep in mind that topside beef does still contain some saturated fat, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How To Select And Store Topside Beef
When selecting topside beef for your next meal, it’s important to consider the number of people you will be serving. A small joint weighing around 1kg (just over 2 pounds) will serve approximately four people, while a medium joint weighing 1.4kg (3 pounds) will serve 4-6 people, and a large joint weighing 2kg (about 4 1/2 pounds) will serve 6-8 people.
When purchasing topside beef, look for a cut that is firm and has a bright red color. Avoid any cuts that have a grayish or brownish tint, as this may indicate that the meat is not fresh. If possible, choose a cut with a thin layer of fat on top, which will help keep the meat moist during cooking.
Once you have purchased your topside beef, it’s important to store it properly to ensure its freshness and quality. Store the meat in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you have leftover roast beef topside, you can store it in the refrigerator and use it in other dishes such as sandwiches, salads, or casseroles. You can also freeze leftover roast beef topside for up to 3 months.
To freeze the meat, slice it into individual portions and store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to use the frozen meat, defrost it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or using it in your favorite dishes.
Cooking Topside Beef: Methods And Tips
There are several methods for cooking topside beef, each with its own unique benefits and flavors. Here are some tips and methods to help you get the most out of your topside beef:
1. Roasting: Roasting is a popular method for cooking topside beef. It’s a quick and easy way to cook the meat, and it produces a deliciously crispy exterior with a juicy and tender interior. To roast topside beef, preheat your oven to 180°C/350°F/gas 4. Take the beef out of the fridge an hour before cooking to let it come up to room temperature. Season the meat with salt and pepper, then sear it in a hot pan for a few minutes until browned all over. Place the meat in a roasting tray with vegetables and herbs, then roast for around 1 hour and 15 minutes for medium-rare. Baste the beef halfway through cooking and add water to the tray if the vegetables look dry.
2. Braising: Braising is a slow-cooking method that involves cooking the beef in liquid over low heat for an extended period of time. This method is perfect for tougher cuts of meat like topside beef, as it helps to break down the fibers and make the meat tender. To braise topside beef, cut it into large chunks and cook it in a stew with vegetables and herbs. Cook for several hours until the meat is soft and falls apart easily.
3. Pot-roasting: Pot-roasting is similar to braising, but it involves cooking the meat in stock instead of water. This method helps to eliminate any toughness in the meat and creates a rich, flavorful gravy. To pot-roast topside beef, place the meat on top of vegetables in a cast-iron casserole dish with herbs and aromatics. Add wine to the stock before pouring it over the meat, then cook slowly until tender.
4. Slow-cooking: Slow-cooking is another great way to cook topside beef, especially if you want it to fall apart easily. Simply follow the instructions for braising or pot-roasting, but cook the meat in a slow cooker instead of on the stove or in the oven.
When cooking topside beef, it’s important to remember to let it rest before carving so that the juices can redistribute throughout the meat. This will help to keep it moist and tender. Additionally, using a meat thermometer can help you ensure that your beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Recipe Ideas For Topside Beef Dishes
If you’re looking for recipe ideas for topside beef dishes, there are plenty of options available. One classic way to prepare this cut of meat is by roasting it in the oven. To do this, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and season the topside beef with salt and pepper. Place it in a roasting pan with some vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery for added flavor. Roast for about 30-40 minutes per pound of meat, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
Another popular way to cook topside beef is by slow-cooking it in a crockpot or slow-cooker. This method allows the meat to become incredibly tender and flavorful. Simply season the beef with your favorite spices and herbs, add some vegetables like potatoes and carrots, and let it cook on low heat for 6-8 hours.
If you’re looking for a more exotic flavor, try marinating the topside beef in a mixture of lime juice, garlic, palm sugar or brown sugar, fish sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, and grated fresh ginger. Let it marinate in the fridge for a few hours before grilling or pan-searing it to your desired doneness.
For a hearty and comforting meal, try making a topside beef stew with potatoes, carrots, onions, and beef broth. Brown the beef in a pot before adding the vegetables and broth. Let it simmer on low heat for a few hours until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
No matter how you choose to prepare topside beef, it’s important to remember that this cut can be tough if not cooked properly. Be sure to follow cooking instructions carefully and allow the meat to rest before slicing into it. With these recipe ideas, you’ll be able to enjoy this lean and flavorful cut of beef in a variety of delicious ways.