Classic Pot Roast with Vegetables

Classic Pot Roast with Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lb (1.5-2 kg) chuck roast or beef shoulder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with additional beef broth)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 onion (cut into large chunks)
• 3 carrots (cut into 2-inch pieces)
• 4-5 baby potatoes (halved)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening gravy)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat:
   • Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels and season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and rosemary.
2. Sear the Roast:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side). This locks in the flavor. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Slow Cooker or Dutch Oven:
   • Place the seared roast in the slow cooker or Dutch oven. Add the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Stir to combine.
4. Add Vegetables:
   • Arrange the onions, carrots, and potatoes around the roast.
5. Cook:
   • Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
   • Dutch Oven: Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C), cover the pot, and roast in the oven for 3-4 hours, checking occasionally.
6. Thicken the Gravy (Optional):
   • Once the roast is cooked, remove the meat and vegetables and set them aside.
   • In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to make a slurry. Add the slurry to the cooking juices and simmer until thickened.
7. Serve:
   • Slice the pot roast and serve with the vegetables and gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor and presentation.

This recipe is perfect for a comforting family dinner. Let me know if you need variations, such as different vegetables or spices!