Pot roast is a great cozy fall dinner that warms the soul and fills the house with delicious aromas. This hearty dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when all you crave is a comforting meal that will satisfy your hunger and bring comfort to your taste buds. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a wholesome meal to enjoy with your loved ones, pot roast is a classic choice that never disappoints.
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 pounds of beef chuck roast
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 1 cup of red wine (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
**Options: if basic meat, potatoes, carrots and onions are a bit boring for you, you can definitely add a larger variety of veggies. Some favorites I often throw in are: broccoli, sliced zucchini, cauliflower, and mushrooms.
INSTRUCTIONS:
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper, then sear it on all sides until browned. This will help lock in the flavors and ensure a juicy and tender pot roast.
3. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
4. Add the tomato paste to the pot and stir it into the onions and garlic, allowing it to cook for a minute or two. This will enhance the depth of flavor in the pot roast.
5. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), and stir to combine. Add the carrots, potatoes, and fresh thyme sprigs to the pot. Return the seared beef chuck roast to the pot, nestling it among the vegetables.
6. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Allow the pot roast to cook for approximately 3 to 4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. Once the pot roast is done, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and tender pot roast.
Pot roast is not only a delicious and satisfying meal, but it is also incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. The combination of tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich broth makes pot roast the perfect cozy fall dinner. So, the next time you're in the mood for a comforting and hearty meal, give this easy pot roast recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!