When I think of comfort food, a marinated crock-pot pot roast comes to mind. The combination of tender meat and rich flavors makes it a staple in my kitchen. I love how easy it is to prepare, letting the slow cooker do all the work. There’s something satisfying about serving it up with homemade gravy. But there’s more to this recipe that might surprise you, especially with a few clever twists and side dish ideas.
Ingredients
To create a delicious Crock-Pot pot roast, you will need a variety of ingredients that come together to enhance the flavor and guarantee a tender and juicy result. The following ingredients are essential for this recipe, each contributing to the overall taste and texture of the dish.
- 1 (3 lb.) chuck roast
- 1 1/2 cups tomato juice or 1 cup tomato sauce and 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup wine vinegar
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon dried crushed basil
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 6 small onions
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/4 cup flour
When selecting your ingredients, particularly the chuck roast, look for a cut that has good marbling, as this fat will render during cooking and keep your meat extremely tender and flavorful. You can also customize some of the ingredients based on your taste preferences; for instance, if you like a bit more acidity, you might increase the quantity of wine vinegar or experiment with different herbs and spices. Fresh vegetables can enhance the overall dish, so consider using fresh garlic and onions if you have them on hand instead of dried or pre-minced versions.
Preparations
To prepare your delicious Crock-Pot pot roast, begin by taking a 3 lb. chuck roast and placing it into a large resealable bag. In a separate bowl, mix together 1 1/2 cups of tomato juice (or alternatively, 1 cup of tomato sauce combined with 1/2 cup of water), 1/4 cup of wine vinegar, 1 minced clove of garlic, 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1/2 teaspoon of dried crushed basil, 1/2 teaspoon of thyme, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Pour this marinade over the chuck roast, ensuring that the meat is well-coated. Seal the bag tightly, refrigerate the roast overnight, and turn it a couple of times to allow the flavors to infuse.
When you’re ready to cook, chop 6 small onions and 1 cup of carrots, and place them directly into your Crock-Pot. Remove the chuck roast from the bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off, and place it on top of the vegetables. Pour the reserved marinade over the roast and vegetables. Cover the Crock-Pot and set it to cook on a low setting for about 10 hours. Once cooking is complete, measure out 2 cups of the cooking liquid from the Crock-Pot and pour it into a saucepan. To thicken this liquid for gravy, mix 1/2 cup of cold water with 1/4 cup of flour, then add this mixture to the saucepan and cook until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. Serve the pot roast along with your flavorful gravy for a hearty meal.
Substitutions and Variations
Even after preparing your pot roast with the original recipe, there’s always room to make it your own through substitutions and variations. For example, you can switch out tomato juice for beef broth or opt for balsamic vinegar instead of wine vinegar for a richer flavor. If you prefer a sweeter touch, add a splash of apple cider instead of sugar. You can even toss in different vegetables like potatoes or parsnips to enhance the dish. With these alterations, your marinated crock-pot pot roast can transform into a unique family favorite, tailored just for your taste buds!
Additional Things to Serve With This Dish
While enjoying your delicious pot roast, consider complementing it with side dishes that enhance the meal’s flavors and textures. I love serving buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the gravy, and roasted vegetables add a nice crunch. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can brighten the plate as well. For something hearty, try homemade bread or dinner rolls to round out the meal. If you’re in the mood for a little sweetness, glazed carrots are a fantastic addition. These sides not only elevate your pot roast but create a delightful and memorable dining experience!
Conclusion
To summarize, this Irresistible Marinated Crock-Pot Pot Roast is sure to become a family favorite. The tender meat, zesty marinade, and fresh vegetables come together for a comforting meal that’s hard to resist. Plus, the convenience of letting it cook all day means you can enjoy more time with loved ones. Don’t forget to whip up that homemade gravy to elevate your dish even further. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
