The cooking time for topside of beef depends on its weight and the desired level of doneness:
- Rare: Cook for 20 minutes per 500g, plus an additional 20 minutes.
- Medium: Cook for 25 minutes per 500g, plus an additional 20 minutes.
- Well-Done: Cook for 30 minutes per 500g, plus an additional 20 minutes.
Checking Doneness
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
- Rare: 50°C
- Medium: 60°C
- Well-Done: 70°C
- Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding bones, and leave it for 20 seconds before taking a reading.
Tips for Cooking Topside Beef
- Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the beef from the fridge about 1 hour before cooking to ensure even cooking and better texture.
- Sear the Meat: Brown the beef in a hot pan for a few minutes on all sides to lock in the juices before roasting.
- Rest Before Serving: Wrap the cooked beef in foil and allow it to rest for at least 10 minutes to enhance tenderness and retain juices.
- Slow Cooker Option:
- For stews, follow the slow cooker’s guidelines.
- For a whole joint, ensure the beef is partially submerged in liquid and cook according to the slow cooker’s instructions.