Crockpot Roast

Crockpot Roast Recipe - Slow Cooked Beef, Potatoes, Carrots, Onion - New England Style

Region / culture: New England | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 8-10 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Crockpot Roast is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. This slow-cooked roast is tender, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and a crockpot, you can have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.

History

The concept of slow-cooking meat in a crockpot has been around for centuries. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender and juicy. Crockpot Roast has been a popular dish in American households for decades, loved for its simplicity and delicious taste.

Ingredients

3-4 lb (1.81 kg) beef roast (any cut you prefer)
8 small red potatoes, quartered
8 medium carrots, cut into chunks
1 small onion, chopped
1 (8 oz (227 g)) jar of prepared horseradish
1-2 tsp salt
0.25-0.5 tsp black pepper
1 cup water
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 tbsp water

How to prepare

Place potatoes, carrots, and onion into a 4-6 qt (5.68 liter) slow cooker.
Place beef on top of vegetables.
Mix horseradish, salt, pepper, and 1 cup of water; pour over top of beef.
Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours or until beef and vegetables are tender.
Remove 2 cups of juices from the crockpot and put into a small saucepan.
Mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp of cold water and then add to the juices.
Bring to a boil while stirring constantly until thickened.
Serve gravy over meat and vegetables.

Variations

Substitute the beef roast with pork or lamb for a different flavor.
Add in mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.
Use different seasonings such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic for a unique taste.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For a more flavorful roast, sear the beef in a hot skillet before placing it in the crockpot.

- Add in your favorite herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the roast.

- Make sure to cut the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

- If you prefer a thicker gravy, you can add more cornstarch to the juices before thickening.

Serving Suggestions

Crockpot Roast pairs well with mashed potatoes, steamed green beans, or a side salad. Serve with a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking in a crockpot allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender. This method is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal without a lot of effort.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have horseradish, you can use Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce for a similar flavor profile. Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the vegetables and seasonings the night before and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This will save you time on the day of cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Crockpot Roast on a large platter with the vegetables arranged around the meat. Garnish with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Crockpot Roast with a side of crusty bread and a green salad for a complete meal. A glass of red wine or a cold beer complements the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 350 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 25g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 12g per serving

Saturated Fat: 4g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 35g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Iron: 15% of daily value per serving

Vitamin C: 20% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: None

Summary

Crockpot Roast is a well-balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is relatively low in carbohydrates and fats, making it a healthy option for a hearty dinner.

Summary

Crockpot Roast is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the excitement that washed over me when I first saw this recipe for Crockpot Roast. It was a crisp autumn day, and I had just come home from a bustling farmer's market with bags full of fresh vegetables and a beautiful cut of beef. As I unpacked my groceries, I stumbled upon an old, weathered cookbook that had been tucked away in the back of my pantry for years. Curious, I flipped through the pages and came across a recipe that caught my eye - Crockpot Roast.

I had never made a roast in a crockpot before, but the idea of slow-cooking a tender piece of meat with hearty vegetables sounded absolutely delicious. I remembered my own mother making roasts in the oven for Sunday dinners, but the convenience of using a crockpot was intriguing to me. I decided to give it a try.

The recipe called for a chuck roast, which I had just purchased from the market. I carefully seasoned the meat with salt, pepper, and a blend of herbs and spices before searing it in a hot skillet to lock in the flavor. As the roast sizzled and browned, the aroma that filled my kitchen was simply intoxicating.

Next, I chopped up an assortment of vegetables - carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery - and layered them in the bottom of my crockpot. I nestled the seared roast on top of the vegetables and poured in a savory beef broth to help keep everything moist and tender. The recipe also called for a splash of red wine, which I happily obliged.

I set the timer on my crockpot and let the magic happen. As the hours passed, the scent of the roast cooking filled my home with warmth and comfort. I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

When the timer finally beeped, I carefully lifted the lid off the crockpot and was met with a sight that made my mouth water. The meat was falling apart with tenderness, and the vegetables had soaked up all the delicious flavors from the broth and wine. I plated the roast with a generous helping of vegetables and took my first bite.

The meat practically melted in my mouth, and the vegetables were bursting with savory goodness. The flavors had melded together perfectly, creating a dish that was truly unforgettable. I couldn't believe how easy it had been to make such a delicious meal using just a crockpot.

As I savored each bite, I thought back to all the recipes that I had collected over the years - from my mother, my friends, and even strangers I had met along the way. Each recipe had a story behind it, a memory attached to it that made it special. And now, this recipe for Crockpot Roast would always hold a special place in my heart.

I knew that I would be making this dish again and again, sharing it with my loved ones and passing it down through the generations. Because that's what cooking is all about - creating memories, one delicious meal at a time. And this Crockpot Roast recipe was definitely one for the books.