Slow Cooker Roast: A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish
Slow cookers have revolutionized the way we cook, allowing us to create delicious and tender meals with minimal effort. One such dish that embodies comfort and satisfaction is the Slow Cooker Roast. This classic recipe combines a succulent chuck roast with aromatic herbs, vegetables, and a savory sauce, resulting in a meal that is both comforting and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or hosting a cozy dinner party, this slow cooker roast is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details of creating this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 chuck roast (1.5kg)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 medium yellow onion, peeled, halved and thickly sliced
- 5 garlic cloves, chopped (1 1/2 tbsp.)
- 1 1/4 cup beef broth
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 2.5 lbs small Yukon gold potatoes, left whole
- 5 medium carrots (about 450g), peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces*
- 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons beef broth, optional, to thicken the sauce
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chuck Roast: Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Sear the Roast: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chuck roast and sear until deeply browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer the seared roast to the slow cooker.
- Add Aromatics and Liquid: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onion and chopped garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the chopped thyme and rosemary.
- Layer Potatoes and Carrots: Arrange the whole Yukon gold potatoes and chopped carrots around the seared chuck roast in the slow cooker.
- Cook Low and Slow: Pour the onion and broth mixture over the roast, potatoes, and carrots. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 hours, or until the roast is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Thicken the Sauce (Optional): If desired, during the last 30 minutes of cooking, mix cornstarch with beef broth to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the sauce.
- Serve: Once the roast is cooked to perfection, carefully transfer it to a serving platter along with the potatoes and carrots. Spoon the rich sauce over the top and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Browning the Meat: While browning the chuck roast adds depth of flavor, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. However, keep in mind that searing the meat enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences. You can add parsnips, turnips, or pearl onions for additional flavor and texture.
- Herb Substitutions: If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, you can use dried herbs instead. Simply reduce the amount by half, as dried herbs are more potent than fresh.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly: To make this recipe keto-friendly, omit the potatoes and carrots or substitute them with low-carb alternatives such as cauliflower florets or radishes. The roast and savory sauce are already keto-friendly.
- Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb version, reduce the amount of potatoes and carrots used in the recipe and increase the proportion of meat and low-carb vegetables. You can also opt for a thicker sauce without the addition of cornstarch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe? A: While chuck roast is ideal for slow cooking due to its marbling and tenderness, you can use other cuts such as brisket or round roast. However, adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the cut you choose.
Q: Can I cook this recipe on high heat instead of low heat? A: Yes, you can cook the roast on high heat for 4-6 hours instead of low heat for 8 hours. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker model and the size of the roast.
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Roast is a classic comfort dish that brings together tender meat, flavorful vegetables, and a rich savory sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, this recipe is sure to please. With its simple preparation and mouthwatering results, it’s no wonder that slow cooker roasts are a beloved favorite among home cooks. So, fire up your slow cooker and treat yourself to the hearty goodness of this delicious dish. Your taste buds will thank you!
