Why is top round roast always so tough?

[hoyeon]

Every time I cook a top round roast, it ends up being tougher than I'd like. Can anyone shed some light on why this happens? Also, any tips for making it more tender would be greatly appreciated!

 

[cheffyyow]

Top round is lean, so it needs slow cooking to soften! Try slow cooker, braising, or reverse sear. Don't forget to marinate them for extra tenderness!

 

[Bricks]

I think top round roast gets tough because it’s a lean cut with little fat. Slow-cooking or braising can help soften it up, though.

 

[Serene]

op round roast tends to be tough because it comes from a lean, well-exercised part of the cow with less fat and connective tissue, requiring careful cooking to prevent dryness and toughness.

 

[BEBE_]

Top round roast is tough because it comes from a heavily used muscle in the cow's rear leg, which has a lot of connective tissue.