flavorful and hearty dish that brings together the rich taste of tender beef, aromatic herbs, and a savory tomato-based sauce. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this dish is easy to prepare and sure to impress. Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a delicious Italian-style pot roast that will fill your home with mouthwatering aromas.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds beef chuck roast
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Prepare the Beef:
- Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Sear the Beef:
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the seasoned beef chuck roast and sear on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pot:
- Pour in the red wine (if using) and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine reduce by half, about 2-3 minutes.
- If not using wine, simply add a splash of beef broth and proceed with deglazing.
- Add the Tomatoes and Herbs:
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), and bay leaves.
- Return the seared beef chuck roast to the pot, nestling it into the tomato mixture.
- Add the Vegetables:
- Arrange the carrot chunks, potato chunks, and chopped celery around the beef in the pot.
- Cook the Pot Roast:
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the pot roast cook for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Alternatively, you can transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) and bake for the same amount of time.
- Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves from the pot and discard.
- Transfer the beef to a cutting board and slice or shred it into serving portions.
- Arrange the beef and vegetables on a serving platter and spoon the tomato sauce over the top.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Tips:
- Flavor Enhancement: For added depth of flavor, marinate the beef chuck roast in red wine and herbs overnight before cooking.
- Slow Cooker Option: You can also cook this dish in a slow cooker. Follow the same steps to sear the beef and sauté the aromatics, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
- Thickening the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, remove the beef and vegetables and simmer the sauce uncovered until it reaches the desired consistency.
Italian-Style Pot Roast is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the best of Italian culinary traditions. With its tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich tomato-based sauce, this pot roast is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy this delicious meal with family and friends, and savor the wonderful aromas and flavors of Italian cuisine!
