
This tender roast wrapped in bacon creates a comforting autumn meal that never fails to impress. The natural sweetness of apples mingles perfectly with soft carrots, while toasted hazelnuts add a delightful crunch. It's the type of dish that brings warmth to any family gathering.
A Hearty Autumn Roast
The beauty of this dish lies in its contrasting textures and flavors. The meat stays moist under its bacon blanket while the hazelnuts provide an irresistible crunch. The apples slowly melt into the honey-kissed cooking juices, creating a dish that consistently delights everyone at the table.
Essential Ingredients
- Roast: A well-tied 2.5 lb piece from the butcher
- Bacon slices: 6 thin, pliable slices
- Apples: 4 large firm apples, cut into even wedges
- Carrots: 4 fresh young carrots, cut into chunks
- Onion: 1 onion, thinly sliced
- Garlic: 1 large clove, crushed
- Hazelnuts: 3 tablespoons, roughly chopped
- Olive oil: 3 tablespoons
- Honey: 2 tablespoons liquid honey
- Salt and pepper: To taste

Preparation Method
- Preparing the roast
- Carefully wrap the roast with bacon slices and tie with kitchen twine to maintain its shape during cooking.
- Browning
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven and brown the roast on all sides for 10 minutes until golden.
- Adding vegetables
- Arrange carrots and apple wedges around the meat. Season lightly with salt, add a splash of water, and brush everything with honey.
- Slow cooking
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour 15 minutes, turning the roast regularly and basting with its juices.
- Final touches
- Remove the twine and generously sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts before serving.
Chef's Tips
Granny Smith apples work exceptionally well as they maintain a slight tartness after cooking. Consider deglazing the pan with white wine after sautéing the onions for added depth.
Serve alongside homemade mashed potatoes or gratin dauphinois to complement the rich cooking juices.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of meat works best for this roast?
Pick a cut that has some marbling so it stays juicy when cooked. Sirloin or beef rump work great for this recipe.
- → Which apple varieties are best for cooking here?
Stick with apples that hold their shape while softening, like Golden Delicious or Pippins. They won’t turn mushy and taste amazing.
- → Can I prep this meal earlier?
You can wrap the meat in bacon a day ahead. Peel the veggies beforehand but cook them fresh for the best taste.
- → How can I tell if the roast is perfectly done?
The internal temperature should reach 140°F for a slightly pink center. The veggies should also be tender by then.
- → What wine pairs nicely with this roast?
A fruity red like Pinot Noir or a light Merlot complements the autumn flavors of this dish.