Braised Beef with Root Vegetables

SERVES: 6

COOK TIME: 3 Hr

What does the term braising mean? Braising is to brown or sear food in a pot or skillet over a high heat then simmer it covered in a bit of liquid. Braising tenderizes tougher cuts of meat and results in a more flavorful dish.

What You'll Need

2 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves, crushed
1 boneless beef chuck shoulder, arm or blade pot roast (2-1/2 to 3 pounds)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 (14- to 14-1/2-ounce) can ready-to-serve beef broth
1 pound small red-skinned potatoes, cut in half
1 pound carrots, peeled, cut diagonally into 1-1/2-inch pieces
1 large onion, cut into 8 wedges
1/2 cup frozen peas
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour dissolved in 1/4 cup cold water
Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

What to Do

Combine garlic and thyme; press evenly onto pot roast.
In large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add roast and brown evenly; pour off drippings. Season with salt and pepper.
Add broth to pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer 2-1/4 hours. Add potatoes, carrots, and onion; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; continue simmering, covered, 25 minutes. Stir in peas; continue simmering 5 to 10 minutes, until roast and vegetables are fork-tender.
Remove roast and vegetables; keep warm. If necessary, skim fat from cooking liquid and return 1-1/2 cups cooking liquid to pot. Stir in flour mixture and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook and stir 2 to 3 minutes, until thickened.
Carve roast into thin slices; serve with vegetables and gravy. Garnish with parsley, if desired.

Notes

Recipes and information courtesy of Cattlemen’s Beef Board and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. For more information, go to www.BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com