Here’s a simple and delicious pot roast recipe:
Ingredients:
– 1 (3 to 4 pounds) beef chuck roast
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
– 2-3 celery stalks, cut into chunks
– 2 cups beef broth or beef stock
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2-3 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 2-3 sprigs fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– 2 bay leaves
– 3-4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat and Season:
– Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
– Pat the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels and season it generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the Roast:
– Heat the oil in an oven-safe Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat.
– Sear the seasoned beef chuck roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This helps lock in the flavors.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
– Add chopped onions, minced garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until they start to soften.
4. Deglaze and Add Liquid:
– If using red wine, pour it into the pot to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
– Add beef broth or beef stock to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Add Herbs and Roast:
– Tie the fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves together with kitchen twine to create a bouquet garni (optional) and add it to the pot.
– Cover the pot with a lid and place it in the preheated oven.
– Roast for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Check occasionally and add more liquid if needed.
6. Optional: Add Potatoes
– If using potatoes, add them to the pot during the last hour of cooking. This allows them to cook alongside the roast.
7. Rest and Serve:
– Once done, remove the pot from the oven. Carefully transfer the roast to a cutting board and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing.
– Remove the bouquet garni and discard it.
– Serve the pot roast slices with the vegetables and pan juices as a flavorful gravy.
This pot roast recipe is comforting and perfect for a hearty meal. Adjust the seasonings and vegetables to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your tender and flavorful pot roast with your favorite sides!
