Slow Cooker Pot Roast

 Ingredients:

  • 3-4 pounds beef chuck roast
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

  1. Season and Sear the Beef:

    • Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and black pepper.
    • In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
    • Sear the beef on all sides until it's well-browned. This step helps lock in flavor.

  2. Transfer to Slow Cooker:

    • Place the seared beef in the slow cooker.

  3. Add Aromatics and Vegetables:

    • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
    • Add the carrots, potatoes, and celery, and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes.

  4. Make the Sauce:

    • Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
    • Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaves. Mix well.

  5. Combine Everything:

    • Pour the vegetable mixture and sauce over the seared beef in the slow cooker.

  6. Slow Cook:

    • Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 8-10 hours, or until the beef is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.

  7. Optional: Add Peas and Thicken Sauce:

    • About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen peas if you're using them.
    • If you want to thicken the sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to thicken the sauce.

  8. Serve:

    • Remove the bay leaves.
    • Slice or shred the beef, and serve your slow cooker pot roast with the vegetables and flavorful gravy.

Enjoy your homemade slow cooker pot roast, a comforting and hearty meal that's perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.

Labels: , ,