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Slow Braised Beef Roast: 5 Hours to Perfectly Tender Flavor

Slow Braised Beef Roast
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Slow Braised Beef Roast With Cranberry Balsamic Glaze is a centerpiece meal featuring fork-tender beef roast, slowly cooked to perfection and infused with deep, savory flavors. The dish is beautifully complemented by a vibrant, glossy cranberry balsamic glaze, offering a delightful balance of sweet, tart, and umami notes.

Ingredients

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  • 3–4 lbs boneless beef chuck roast
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (optional)
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 4 carrots, chopped
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 6 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 2 cups beef broth (non-alcoholic alternative for red wine)
  • 4 cups low sodium beef broth
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 12 oz fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 1/2 cup good quality balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or maple syrup)
  • 1/4 cup water or orange juice
  • 1 tbsp orange zest
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch ground cloves (optional)
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat beef chuck roast completely dry, then season generously with 2 teaspoons kosher salt and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Optionally, dredge the seasoned beef roast in 1 cup all-purpose flour, shaking off any excess.
  2. Roughly chop 1 large yellow onion, 4 carrots, and 3 celery stalks into 1-inch pieces. Peel and smash 6 garlic cloves.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Carefully place the beef roast into the hot pot and sear on all sides for 4-6 minutes per side until a deep, rich brown crust forms. Remove the beef and set aside.
  4. Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil to the same pot, along with the chopped yellow onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add the smashed garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Pour in 2 cups beef broth (as a non-alcoholic alternative). Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all the delicious browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the liquid simmer and reduce by about half for 5-7 minutes.
  6. Return the seared beef roast to the Dutch oven, nestling it among the vegetables. Pour in 4 cups beef broth and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (if using). Add the fresh rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves.
  7. Bring the liquid in the pot to a gentle simmer on the stovetop. Once simmering, cover the Dutch oven tightly with its lid. Transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C). Allow the beef to slow braise for approximately 3 to 4 hours, or until it is incredibly fork-tender and easily shredded.
  8. Remove the Dutch oven from the oven. Carefully take the beef roast out of the pot and transfer it to a large cutting board or platter. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes.
  9. While the beef is resting, prepare the Cranberry Balsamic Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries, 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or maple syrup), 1/4 cup water or orange juice, 1 tablespoon orange zest, 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional), and a pinch of ground cloves (optional).
  10. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Continue to simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cranberries burst and the glaze has thickened to a syrupy consistency. For extra richness, stir in 1 tablespoon unsalted butter at the very end until melted (optional). Taste and adjust sweetness or tartness if needed.
  11. Shred the rested beef with two forks for a rustic presentation or slice it against the grain for an elegant look. Arrange the beef on a large serving platter. Drizzle a generous amount of the warm Cranberry Balsamic Glaze over the beef. Optionally, strain and reduce the braising liquid for a rich sauce to spoon alongside the beef. Garnish with fresh cranberry sprigs or chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • This dish requires minimal active preparation time.
  • It is suitable for various occasions.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://keepityummy.com/slow-braised-beef-roast/

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