Slow-Braised Beef Roast with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze is a comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners and special occasions. The beef becomes tender and flavorful as it cooks slowly, absorbing the sweet and tangy flavors of the cranberry balsamic glaze. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a great choice for both experienced cooks and beginners.
Table of Contents
Why Make This Recipe
Making this slow-braised beef roast is a fantastic way to treat your taste buds. The combination of savory beef, sweet cranberries, and tangy balsamic vinegar creates a unique flavor that everyone will love. The slow cooking process ensures the beef is tender and juicy, making it an ideal meal for gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Plus, the aroma filling your kitchen while it cooks is sure to impress!
How to Make Slow-Braised Beef Roast with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 ½ cups whole cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 4 to 5 sprigs fresh thyme
- 4 carrots, peeled and halved (optional)
Directions:
- Pat the beef roast dry and season with salt and pepper.
- In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned.
- Remove the roast and sauté the chopped onion until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Deglaze the pot with balsamic vinegar, scraping up the browned bits.
- Stir in the beef broth and brown sugar. Return the roast to the pot.
- Add cranberries, thyme, and optional carrots around the roast.
- Cover and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 3 to 3.5 hours.
- Remove the roast and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Skim fat from the sauce and simmer to thicken if needed.
- Slice or shred the beef and serve with glaze spooned over the top.
Slow-Braised Beef Roast with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze
A comforting slow-braised beef roast that absorbs the sweet and tangy flavors of cranberry balsamic glaze, perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
- Total Time: 225 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 3 to 4 pounds beef chuck roast
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 ½ cups whole cranberries (fresh or frozen)
- 4 to 5 sprigs fresh thyme
- 4 carrots, peeled and halved (optional)
Instructions
- Pat the beef roast dry and season with salt and pepper.
- In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned.
- Remove the roast and sauté the chopped onion until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Deglaze the pot with balsamic vinegar, scraping up the browned bits.
- Stir in the beef broth and brown sugar. Return the roast to the pot.
- Add cranberries, thyme, and optional carrots around the roast.
- Cover and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 3 to 3.5 hours.
- Remove the roast and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Skim fat from the sauce and simmer to thicken if needed.
- Slice or shred the beef and serve with glaze spooned over the top.
Notes
Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious glaze. Add a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for balance.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 210 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
How to Serve Slow-Braised Beef Roast with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze
Serve this tasty beef roast with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or warm crusty bread to soak up the delicious glaze. You can also add a fresh salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. Drizzle extra glaze over each serving for an extra burst of flavor!
How to Store Slow-Braised Beef Roast with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze
To store leftovers, let the beef roast cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just ensure it’s well-wrapped and it will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it gently on the stove or in the oven.
Tips to Make Slow-Braised Beef Roast with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze
- Make sure to sear the beef well to develop a rich flavor.
- Use fresh cranberries when in season for the best taste; frozen cranberries work just as well too.
- Don’t skip the resting step after cooking; it helps the juices redistribute, making for a more tender bite.
- Feel free to add more vegetables, like potatoes or parsnips, to the pot if you want a heartier meal.
Variation
For a spicier kick, try adding a dash of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or sage, to add another layer of flavor to the dish.
Try this Cranberry Orange Chicken, for another cranberry flavoured delight.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round roast, but cooking times may vary.
2. Is it necessary to sear the beef?
Searing adds flavor by creating a browned crust, but you can skip this step if you’re short on time.
3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Follow the same steps but cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
Conclusion
Slow-Braised Beef Roast with Cranberry Balsamic Glaze is a delightful dish that combines robust flavors and tender meat for a satisfying meal. With its straightforward preparation and no-fuss cooking method, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy this delicious dish with your loved ones for a hearty and memorable meal!
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