
A hearty bacon-wrapped roast paired with fall vegetables creates an irresistible autumn meal. The natural sweetness of apples combines perfectly with tender carrots, while toasted hazelnuts add a delightful crunch. This classic combination brings warmth and comfort to any family gathering.
A Comforting Autumn Roast
The beauty of this dish lies in its contrasting textures and flavors. The meat stays juicy under its bacon wrap while the hazelnuts provide a satisfying crunch. The apples slowly melt into the honey-kissed cooking juices, creating a dish that consistently delights everyone at the table.
Essential Ingredients
- Roast: Select a quality 2.5 lb piece, tied by your butcher
- Bacon: 6 thin, pliable slices for wrapping
- Apples: 4 firm cooking apples, quartered
- Carrots: 4 fresh 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

Cooking Method
- Preparing the roast
- Carefully wrap the roast with bacon slices and tie securely to maintain shape during cooking.
- Browning
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven and brown the roast on all sides for about 10 minutes.
- Adding vegetables
- Arrange carrots and apple quarters around the meat. Season lightly with salt, add a splash of water, and brush with honey.
- Slow cooking
- Cover and simmer for 1 hour 15 minutes, turning the roast regularly and basting with pan juices.
- Serving
- Remove kitchen twine and generously sprinkle with crushed hazelnuts before serving.
Chef's Tips
Granny Smith apples work particularly well as they maintain a pleasant tartness when cooked. Consider deglazing the pan with white wine after sautéing the onions for extra depth.
Serve alongside homemade mashed potatoes or gratin dauphinois to complement the rich cooking juices.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's the best meat cut for this roast?
Pick a marbled cut for juicy results. Filet or top round cuts are great options for this recipe.
- → Which type of apples work best in this dish?
Go for apples that hold up well while cooking, such as Golden Delicious or Granny Smith. They keep their shape and turn deliciously soft.
- → Can this dish be prepped ahead of time?
Sure! You can wrap the meat in bacon the day before. Peel the veggies ahead too, but cook them fresh when you're about to serve for the best flavor.
- → How can I tell if the roast is cooked perfectly?
For a perfectly cooked roast, aim for an internal temperature of 140°F. The meat should have a slight pink center, and the vegetables should be tender.
- → What wine pairs well with this meal?
A fruity red wine like a Pinot Noir or Merlot complements the warm, hearty flavors of this dish.