Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a comforting meal on a chilly evening, this Alphabet Pot Roast recipe is sure to hit the spot. This classic dish is a delightful combination of tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs that come together in a savory one-pot wonder. The beauty of a pot roast is that it’s easy to prepare, and the slow cooking process yields a rich and hearty meal that will have your whole house smelling amazing. So, roll up your sleeves, grab your apron, and let’s get cooking!
**Alphabet Pot Roast**
**Ingredients:**
– 3 lbs beef chuck roast
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
– 4 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 lb baby potatoes, halved
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Prep the Ingredients:**
– Start by prepping all your ingredients. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, peel and cut the carrots, chop the celery, and halve the baby potatoes. Make sure the beef chuck roast is trimmed of excess fat and pat it dry with paper towels. Season the roast generously with salt and pepper.
2. **Sear the Beef:**
– Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef chuck roast and sear it on all sides until nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step helps lock in the flavors.
3. **Saute the Aromatics:**
– Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
4. **Deglaze the Pot:**
– Pour in the red wine and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze it. This step helps to incorporate all those delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pot into the sauce.
5. **Add the Remaining Ingredients:**
– Stir in the tomato paste, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Return the beef chuck roast to the pot. Add the carrots, celery, and potatoes around the beef. Season everything with a bit more salt and pepper.
6. **Cook the Pot Roast:**
– Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the pot with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and let the pot roast simmer gently for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
7. **Serve and Enjoy:**
– Once the pot roast is done, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it. Serve the beef alongside the vegetables and drizzle with the flavorful sauce from the pot. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
This Alphabet Pot Roast is a true crowd-pleaser that will fill your home with warmth and delicious aromas. The slow-cooked beef, tender vegetables, and flavorful broth come together to create a meal that is both comforting and satisfying. So, gather your loved ones around the table, share a hearty meal, and create lasting memories with this timeless classic. Enjoy!