I thought I would give a little unasked for, but no doubt welcome advice on how to cook the perfect Roast Dinner, since yours are what I would have to call second rate. I'm sure you are trying, but a little attention to detail makes all the difference. As you know it is one of my Son's favourites so do try to stop disappointing him. Of course he is always welcome to come home for his Sunday dinner as you know. I perfectly understand you need to watch your weight though so I will make you a wee salad if you are tagging along.
Well as to my methods I always like to start with quality ingredients. M&S or Waitrose are good choices and none of your value ranges in Lidl, dearie me. Now a King Edward potato will give a nice crispy texture especially if roasted in goose fat if you can find it. NOT Olive oil, we are British after all! Jamie Oliver, I am looking at you dear.
If you can't find a decent butcher in your area, and frankly I'm not surprised since you refused to move into that house across the road from myself and ended up in a most undesirable location. Still we will say no more on that subject for now . You can pick up a decent joint of meat in the Supermarket or a nice organic chicken as favoured by the Prince of Wales.
A good basting is what makes the difference and do try not to overcook it. I find it easy to judge after years of experience but you may need to set a timer or use a meat thermometer, in fact in your case I would advise both methods. Always double up on protection dear as my own MiL used to say, we aren't Roman Catholics after all.
If you should be faced with a Vegetarian I suggest giving them a haughty stare and making them question their life choices. They will then be happy to make do with a cheese sandwich or may even decide to eat elsewhere, a good result all round!
I shall add a few more recipes later but not my jam recipe as I wouldn't trust you with a lot of boiling sugar. Think of the mess you'd make!