Pot Roast Perfection





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Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat.
  4. Place the seasoned chuck roast in the pot and sear it on all sides until browned. This helps to develop flavor and create a nice crust.
  5. Remove the seared roast from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
  6. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  7. Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery to the pot and cook them for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
  8. Return the seared chuck roast to the pot, placing it on top of the vegetables.
  9. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves until well combined.
  10. Pour the mixture over the pot roast and vegetables, ensuring that the liquid covers about two-thirds of the roast. If needed, add more broth or water to achieve the desired level.
  11. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid or foil, and transfer it to the preheated oven.
  12. Allow the pot roast to cook in the oven for about 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors have melded together. Baste the roast with the cooking liquid every hour or so to keep it moist.
  13. Once the pot roast is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
  14. Carefully transfer the pot roast to a serving platter, along with the cooked vegetables. Discard the bay leaves.
  15. If desired, you can thicken the cooking liquid to create a gravy. Remove the excess fat from the liquid, and then transfer it to a saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat, and whisk in a slurry made from equal parts water and flour. Continue whisking until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
  16. Slice the pot roast against the grain and serve it with the cooked vegetables and the gravy.

Pot roast perfection is best enjoyed with a side of mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread. Enjoy the tender, flavorful beef and hearty vegetables!