Apple Cider Pot Roast with Potatoes

Introduction

Apple Cider Pot Roast with Potatoes is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and the sweet touch of apple cider, creating a warm meal that brings everyone together. It’s a simple one-pot dish that yields delicious results with minimal effort.

Why Make This Recipe

Making Apple Cider Pot Roast is a fantastic choice for several reasons. Firstly, it is easy to prepare and requires only a few ingredients. Secondly, the apple cider adds a unique sweetness that balances the savory flavors of the meat and vegetables. Perfectly braised in the oven, the chuck roast becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. Finally, this dish is ideal for meal prepping. You can enjoy leftovers for days, making it not just a meal, but an experience that nourishes both the body and soul.

How to Make Apple Cider Pot Roast with Potatoes

Ingredients:

3 lb chuck roast
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups apple cider
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4–5 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, quartered
3 carrots, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

Start by seasoning the chuck roast generously with salt and black pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the roast on all sides until browned, which should take about 4 to 5 minutes per side. After browning, remove the roast and set it aside.
In the same pot, add the sliced onions and sauté until they soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to mix well with the onions and garlic. Next, pour in the apple cider and beef broth to deglaze the pot. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and cinnamon for added flavor.
Return the roast to the pot, placing it in the center. Arrange the quartered potatoes and carrot chunks around the meat. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Cover the pot, then transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Let it braise for about 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the meat becomes tender and pulls apart easily.
For a thicker sauce, after the cooking time, remove the roast and vegetables. Skim off any excess fat, and stir in a cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce on the stovetop.
Serve the roast sliced or shredded along with the potatoes, carrots, and rich pan gravy. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a nice touch.

How to Serve Apple Cider Pot Roast with Potatoes

Serve Apple Cider Pot Roast with Potatoes hot right out of the oven. Plate the meat alongside generous portions of potatoes and carrots, then drizzle with the savory gravy. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Apple Cider Pot Roast with Potatoes

Store any leftover Apple Cider Pot Roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the pot roast. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Apple Cider Pot Roast with Potatoes

Choosing a good quality chuck roast will ensure the best flavor and tenderness.
Feel free to add other vegetables, like parsnips or turnips, for variety.
Letting the roast rest after cooking helps juices redistribute, making it juicier when sliced.

Variation (If Any)

You can modify this recipe using different cuts of beef, such as brisket or round roast. Adding different herbs or spices like bay leaves or paprika can also enhance the flavor profile of the dish.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of cider?
A: Yes, you can use a non-alcoholic apple cider if you prefer not to use alcoholic beverages.

Q: Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Sear the meat first, then place everything in a slow cooker and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours.

Q: What can I serve with pot roast?
A: Pot roast pairs well with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple side salad.

Apple Cider Pot Roast with Potatoes

A comforting and hearty one-pot dish featuring tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and sweet apple cider, perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 3 30

Total Time 3 50

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American, Comfort Food

Servings 6 servings

Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

3 lb chuck roast Choose a good quality cut for best flavor.
2 tablespoons olive oil For searing the meat.
to taste Salt and black pepper For seasoning.
1 onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups apple cider Can use non-alcoholic if preferred.
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
4–5 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, quartered
3 carrots, cut into chunks
2 tablespoons cornstarch For thickening the sauce.
2 tablespoons water To mix with cornstarch.
to taste Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.

Instructions

Preparation

Season the chuck roast generously with salt and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat and sear the roast on all sides until browned, approximately 4 to 5 minutes per side. Remove the roast and set aside.
In the same pot, add sliced onions and sauté until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the tomato paste, then pour in the apple cider and beef broth to deglaze the pot. Add Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and cinnamon.
Return the roast to the pot and arrange quartered potatoes and carrot chunks around it. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Let it braise for approximately 3 to 3.5 hours.