Slow Cooker Cranberry Pot Roast

• 3 pounds beef chuck roast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 12 ounces fresh cranberries
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Steps

1. 1 Pat the roast dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. 2 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the roast on all sides.
3. 3 Transfer the seared roast to the slow cooker.
4. 4 In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
5. 5 Add sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker along with beef broth, cranberries, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, carrots, celery, and thyme.
6. 6 Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours.
7. 7 Once the beef is fork-tender, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest.
8. 8 Skim any excess fat from the sauce and adjust sweetness if needed.
9. 9 Slice the roast and serve with the sauce and vegetables.

Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef's knife

Variations

• Add a splash of red wine to the slow cooker for a deeper flavor.
• Substitute chicken broth for beef broth to lighten it up.

Substitutions

• If fresh cranberries are unavailable, use 1 cup of frozen cranberries.
• Substitute honey for brown sugar for a different sweetness profile.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a crisp Pinot Noir.
• Serve with a loaf of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a richer flavor, sear the vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker.
• If you prefer a saucier dish, thicken the sauce with a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles.
• Pair with a side of steamed green beans for a balanced meal.

FAQ