Why Make This Recipe
Slow-Cooked Beef Roast with Rich Brown Gravy is a classic dish that offers comfort and satisfaction. The slow cooking method tenderizes the meat, allowing flavors to meld beautifully. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests. The rich gravy adds a delicious touch, making every bite special.
How to Make Slow-Cooked Beef Roast with Rich Brown Gravy
Ingredients
- 3-4 lb beef roast
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Minced garlic
- Sliced onions
- Carrots (optional)
- Celery (optional)
- Olive oil
- Fresh thyme
- Fresh rosemary (optional)
- Beef broth
- Red wine (optional)
- Flour for gravy thickening
Directions
- Season the beef roast with salt, black pepper, and minced garlic.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned.
- Place the seared roast in a slow cooker. Add sliced onions, carrots, and celery.
- Pour in the beef broth and red wine if you choose to use it.
- Cover and cook on low for about 8 hours, or until the meat is tender.
- Once cooked, remove the roast and vegetables from the slow cooker. Strain the cooking liquid if desired.
- To make the gravy, mix a small amount of flour with cold water to form a slurry. Stir this into the remaining liquid in a saucepan.
- Simmer until the gravy thickens, then pour it over the sliced roast when serving.
How to Serve Slow-Cooked Beef Roast with Rich Brown Gravy
Serve the beef roast sliced with a generous amount of gravy drizzled over the top. Pair it with mashed potatoes or rice, and add your favorite steamed vegetables for a complete meal. This dish also goes well with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious gravy.
How to Store Slow-Cooked Beef Roast with Rich Brown Gravy
Once the roast has cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the beef and gravy in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Tips to Make Slow-Cooked Beef Roast with Rich Brown Gravy
- Use a good quality beef roast for the best flavor.
- Don’t skip the searing step; it adds depth to the roast.
- Feel free to mix in other vegetables for added flavor, such as potatoes or parsnips.
- Adjust the thickness of your gravy by adding more or less flour, based on your preference.
Variation
For a twist, try adding different herbs or a touch of Worcestershire sauce to the gravy for an extra layer of flavor. You can also substitute the red wine with apple cider for a sweeter note.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or round roast. Just ensure they are suitable for slow cooking.
2. Is it necessary to use wine in the recipe?
No, using red wine is optional. You can skip it or replace it with extra beef broth for a non-alcoholic version.
3. Can I cook this dish on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook it on high for about 4-5 hours, but low is recommended for the best texture and flavor.
4. What can I serve with this roast?
Mashed potatoes, rice, or a green salad are great sides. You can also serve it with bread to soak up the gravy.
5. How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can reduce the amount of oil used for searing, use less salt, and add more vegetables to the slow cooker for a hearty meal.