Slow-Cooked Beef Chuck 

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lb beef chuck roast
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but adds great flavor)
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 3 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2-3 bay leaves

Instructions:

1. Sear the Beef Chuck:

   • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
   • Season the beef chuck roast with salt and pepper on all sides.
   • Sear the roast in the hot oil for about 4-5 minutes per side until browned. This helps lock in the flavor. Once seared, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

2. Prepare the Slow Cooker:

   • In the bottom of the slow cooker, add the sliced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and potatoes.

3. Make the Cooking Liquid:

   • In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Stir well to combine.

4. Slow Cook the Roast:

   • Place the seared beef chuck roast on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.
   • Pour the broth mixture over the roast and vegetables.

5. Cook the Roast:

   • Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
   • Cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the beef is fork-tender and can easily be shredded with a fork.
   • If you’re in a rush, you can also cook it on high for 4-5 hours, but low and slow gives the best results.

6. Shred and Serve:

   • Once the roast is cooked, remove the beef from the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board.
   • Use two forks to shred the beef.
   • Optionally, you can skim any excess fat from the liquid in the slow cooker before serving.

7. Serve:

   • Serve the shredded beef with the cooked vegetables and some of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker.

Optional Additions/Variations:

• Add mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
• You can add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer sauce.
• For a little heat, add chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño.

This slow-cooked beef chuck roast is super versatile and perfect for any meal, whether served on its own with potatoes and carrots or used for tacos, sandwiches, or even a beef stew! Enjoy!