Tuscan-Style Slow-Cooked Beef Roast

This Tuscan-Style Slow-Cooked Beef Roast is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for cozy family dinners or special gatherings. With its tender beef, hearty vegetables, and rich broth, it’s the ultimate comfort food. The slow cooking method brings out the flavors of fresh herbs, tomatoes, and garlic, making it a perfect dish for a leisurely evening. Serve this alongside a glass of red wine, and you have an impressive, rustic meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 3-4 pound beef chuck roast
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 large carrots, cut into chunks
• 2-3 potatoes, cut into chunks

Directions

1. Season the beef roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef roast on all sides until browned. Transfer the roast to a slow cooker.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until softened. Add the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Deglaze the skillet with red wine (if using) or 1/2 cup of beef broth, scraping up any browned bits. Pour the mixture over the beef in the slow cooker.
5. Add the remaining beef broth, diced tomatoes, rosemary, thyme, oregano, and bay leaves to the slow cooker.
6. Arrange the carrots and potatoes around the roast.
7. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the beef is tender and falls apart easily.
8. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Slice or shred the beef, and serve with the vegetables and sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Calories: Approximately 500 kcal per serving

Variations

• Wine Substitution: If you don’t want to use red wine, replace it with an extra cup of beef broth for a richer flavor.
• Herb Alternatives: If you don’t have fresh rosemary or thyme, dried herbs can be used. Just reduce the amount by half.
• Vegetable Mix: Feel free to add other vegetables such as parsnips, turnips, or celery for added flavor and variety.
• Instant Pot Version: You can adapt this recipe for an Instant Pot by cooking on high pressure for 60 minutes, then allowing a natural release.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. To freeze, cool the roast and vegetables completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in a pot over low heat or in the microwave. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish without a slow cooker?
   Yes, you can cook this in a Dutch oven or a large pot in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours.
2. What can I use instead of beef chuck roast?
   You can substitute a brisket or another well-marbled cut like beef shoulder for similar results.
3. Do I need to sear the beef before slow cooking?
   Searing the beef adds depth of flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step.
4. Can I omit the wine?
   Yes, the wine is optional. Replace it with more beef broth for a non-alcoholic version.
5. Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
   Yes, you can use dried rosemary and thyme. Use half the amount called for in the recipe.
6. Can I add more vegetables?
   Definitely! You can add mushrooms, celery, or even sweet potatoes for more variety.
7. Can I cook this on high in the slow cooker?
   Yes, you can cook on high for 4-5 hours, but the texture of the beef will be better with the low, slow cooking method.
8. What should I serve this with?
   This roast pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even over a bed of polenta.
9. How can I make the sauce thicker?
   If you want a thicker sauce, remove the beef and vegetables after cooking, then simmer the sauce in a saucepan until it reduces to your desired consistency.
10. Can I make this ahead of time?
    Yes, this roast tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Simply reheat before serving.

Conclusion

The Tuscan-Style Slow-Cooked Beef Roast is a comforting, flavorful dish that brings rustic, Italian-inspired flavors to your table. Its tender beef, rich vegetables, and aromatic herbs create a meal that’s perfect for a leisurely family dinner or special occasion. With easy prep and a slow cooker doing most of the work, you’ll have a delicious, home-cooked meal ready to impress. Enjoy the cozy flavors and simplicity of this dish, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite!

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