Roast Beef with Orange Sauce | Tender Asado de Ternera

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Tender, juicy beef cooked slowly to perfection
• Balanced sweet and savory orange sauce
• Simple ingredients with big flavor
• Perfect for make-ahead meals
• Pairs well with many side dishes

Ingredients

For the Beef

• 1 kg veal roast (leg or shoulder)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional)

For the Orange Sauce

• 200 ml fresh orange juice
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 50 ml white wine (optional)
• 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for depth)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water

How to Make Roast Beef with Orange Sauce

1. Season and Sear the Beef: Season the veal with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the meat on all sides until well browned.
2. Add the Vegetables: Add the garlic, onion, and carrots to the pot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until lightly golden.
3. Add Liquids and Aromatics: Pour in the orange juice, add the orange zest, white wine (if using), honey, and soy sauce. Add the rosemary sprig and bring to a gentle boil.
4. Slow Cook the Beef: Reduce the heat, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the meat is very tender. Stir occasionally and turn the meat if needed.
5. Prepare the Sauce: Remove the beef and vegetables from the pot. Bring the cooking liquid to a boil, then stir in the cornstarch mixture. Cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
6. Serve: Slice the beef and serve with the orange sauce poured over the top.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, white rice, or roasted potatoes. The orange sauce adds freshness that balances rich side dishes perfectly.

Tips for Best Results

• Marinate the beef in orange juice and spices for a few hours for deeper flavor
• Use fresh orange juice for the best taste
• Cook slowly to keep the meat tender and juicy
• Adjust sweetness with more or less honey to taste

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a little sauce to prevent drying.