Classic Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots

Pot roast with potatoes and carrots is the epitome of comfort food. This timeless dish combines a succulent cut of beef, tender potatoes, and sweet carrots, all slow-cooked together in a savory broth until everything is melt-in-your-mouth tender. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or simply craving a hearty meal, this pot roast recipe is a classic choice that never disappoints. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and some tips for creating a delicious and comforting pot roast.

 

Ingredients:

• 3-4 pounds (1.4-1.8 kg) chuck roast or beef roast of your choice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4-6 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, can be replaced with additional beef broth)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

 

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).

Step 2: Sear the Beef

1. In a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels to promote browning. Season it generously with salt and black pepper.
3. Place the roast in the hot pot and sear it on all sides until nicely browned. This step enhances the flavor of the roast.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Push the seared roast to one side of the pot. In the open space, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onions become translucent and aromatic.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pot

1. Pour in the red wine (if using) or beef broth. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This deglazing step adds depth of flavor to the broth.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

1. Return the seared roast to the pot.
2. Add the carrots, potatoes, bay leaves, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and enough beef broth to almost cover the roast. If you’re using red wine, add it as well.

Step 6: Simmer and Transfer to Oven

1. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
2. Once simmering, cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.

Step 7: Slow Roast

1. Roast the pot for about 3 to 3.5 hours or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are soft and fully cooked. The exact time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your roast.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the pot from the oven. Discard the bay leaves.
2. Optionally, garnish your pot roast with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
3. Serve your classic pot roast with potatoes and carrots hot, and ladle the flavorful broth over each serving.

 

Pro Tips for Perfect Pot Roast with Potatoes and Carrots:

1. Choose the Right Cut: Chuck roast or similar cuts are ideal for pot roast. They have enough marbling to become tender and flavorful during slow cooking.
2. Searing Matters: Don’t skip the searing step. It adds a rich, caramelized flavor to both the meat and the broth.
3. Wine or Broth: You can use red wine for added depth of flavor, but extra beef broth works perfectly if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
4. Adjust Cooking Time: The cooking time can vary based on your roast’s size and your oven, so use fork-tenderness as your guide.
5. Rest the Roast: Let the pot roast rest for about 10-15 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist, tender meat.
6. Make a Gravy: If you want a thicker gravy, you can strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan, bring it to a simmer, and thicken it with a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with cold water).

 

Pot roast with potatoes and carrots is a timeless and comforting meal that brings the family together around the table. With succulent beef, tender vegetables, and a rich broth, it’s a dish that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this classic pot roast recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the wonderful aroma and heartwarming flavors of this beloved comfort food.