Ingredients:

  • 3-4 pounds beef chuck roast
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup red wine (optional, or use additional beef broth)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme or 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Prepare the Beef: Pat the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
  3. Sear the Meat: Heat vegetable oil in a large, oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef chuck roast and sear on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the roast and set it aside.
  4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
  5. Deglaze and Add Liquids: If using wine, pour it into the pot to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half, then add the beef broth. Stir in the bay leaf, thyme, and soy sauce if using.
  6. Braise: Return the beef chuck roast to the pot. The liquid should cover about one-third to halfway up the sides of the meat. Bring the liquid to a simmer.
  7. Cook in Oven: Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily shreds.
  8. Optional Thickening: If you prefer a thicker gravy, remove the meat once it’s done and set it aside. Mix 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry, then stir it into the pot. Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
  9. Serve: Slice or shred the beef and serve it with the braising liquid and vegetables. This dish pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread.

This Classic Braised Beef Chuck is a hearty and flavorful dish that benefits from the slow cooking process, making it perfect for a comforting meal.