Name: Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-489052H59M36S
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 pounds beef chuck roast; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for dusting); 1 large yellow onion, diced; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup unsweetened grape juice; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Introduction to Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast

Welcome to my kitchen! Flavors reign here. And here is what I’ve been so excited to make: Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast. Not just a dish, it’s an embrace at dinnertime after a long tiring day. If you are anything like me, that’s being a multi-tasking mom or professional with stuff piled to infinity, this is your answer to having a wholesome and hearty dinner with less effort. Just enter after a busy day: that gentle aroma of simmering tender beef greets the family–it’s like a hug from someone dear!

Why You’ll Love This Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast

Your “set it and forget” ticket to an easy, tasty dinner as life gets busier and busier. That slow-cooking magic means it practically takes care of itself while the busy schedule attacks. Rich flavors and tender beef create a comforting meal that your family adores eating. And maybe, just maybe, it will offer some solace in what can be sheer madhouse mayhem by bringing everybody to the table for heartwarming moments.

Ingredients for Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this amazing Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast. Here’s what you’ll need:

Beef chuck roast: A well-marbled cut that’s perfect for slow cooking, ensuring tender results.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps in searing the meat to unlock flavorful browning.
Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the robust flavors. Feel free to adjust to your taste.
Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a kick of spice, complementing the dish beautifully.
Garlic powder: For that savory depth without the fuss of fresh garlic.
All-purpose flour: Optional, but dusting the beef can create a lovely crust when searing.
Onion: A staple for building the base flavor; it sweetens as it cooks.
Carrots: Add a subtle sweetness and color to your dish.
Celery: Brings a nice crunch and earthiness to the mix.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic is essential—it elevates the flavor and aroma.
Tomato paste: Helps to deepen the sauce, giving it that rich Italian taste.
Dried oregano: A classic Italian herb that brings warmth and fragrance.
Dried thyme: Offers a subtle earthiness, balancing the other flavors perfectly.
Bay leaf: Don’t skip this—it adds complexity to the braising liquid.
Crushed tomatoes: The base of your sauce; they bring acidity and richness.
Beef broth: Enhances the beefiness of the dish; homemade or store-bought works great.
Unsweetened grape juice: A unique twist for sweetness; you can substitute with red wine for a different flavor.
Balsamic vinegar: Adds a touch of tanginess that brightens the dish.
Fresh parsley: For a pop of color and freshness when serving.
Parmesan cheese: Optional garnish for a final touch of savory flavor.

Exact measurements and a handy printable version are available at the bottom of the article, so don’t worry about jotting everything down!

How to Make Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the steps for creating this delightful Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast. Each step is straightforward, and I’ll share a few tips along the way to ensure success.

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

First things first, let’s dry the beef chuck roast. I like to use paper towels for this—pat it down to be sure it’s not damp. Moisture can hinder that beautiful crust we want when searing. Once it’s dry, season the roast generously with kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. If you prefer a crustier texture, dust it lightly with all-purpose flour. This step is optional, but it helps create a lovely brown crust that locks in flavor while cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

The next step is to heat some olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, carefully add the seasoned roast. Sear it for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until that golden-brown crust forms. This browning isn’t just for looks; it’s where much of that rich flavor develops. Don’t rush this step—it’s worth it!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Once you’ve seared the beef, transfer it to a plate. In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed, and toss in your diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté these for about 5 to 6 minutes until they’re softened. Then, stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, oregano, thyme, and the bay leaf. Allow these to cook for another minute until you can smell the delicious aromas—they’ll make your mouth water!

Step 4: Add Liquid Ingredients

Now it’s time for some magic! Pour in the unsweetened grape juice, scraping any caramelized bits from the pot with a wooden spoon. These bits add depth to the sauce. Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and balsamic vinegar. Mix everything well, so the flavors mingle. The pot is brimming with promise at this point!

Step 5: Braise the Roast

Carefully nestle the seared beef back into the Dutch oven, making sure it’s partially submerged in that glorious sauce. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. This slow cooking process is where the magic truly happens. Let it braise for about 3 to 3½ hours, turning the roast once or twice. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s fork-tender—just melt-in-your-mouth perfection!

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once the cooking time is up, take the pot off the heat. Transfer the roast to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 minutes. This resting time is crucial; it helps the juices redistribute, keeping the beef super tender. When you’re ready, slice or shred the beef using two forks. Return the shredded beef to the delicious sauce, stirring it in to coat thoroughly. Serve hot over creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or alongside thick slices of crusty bread. Don’t forget to garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for that authentic touch!

Tips for Success

Always pat the beef dry for a proper sear.
Let the roast rest after cooking to enhance tenderness.
Use a high-quality olive oil for better flavor.
Don’t skip deglazing; those brown bits are flavor gold!
Adjust seasoning to your family’s liking.
Try using a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Equipment Needed

Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking. A heavy pot with a lid works as a substitute.
Wooden spoon: Great for stirring and scraping. A silicone spatula can also do the trick.
Cutting board: Essential for resting and slicing the beef.
Meat thermometer: Useful to check doneness, though not mandatory.

Variations on Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast

Red Wine Stracotto: Substitute unsweetened grape juice with a robust red wine for a richer flavor profile.
Vegetable Stracotto: For a vegetarian twist, use seitan or portobello mushrooms instead of beef, and add more seasonal veggies.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes during the sautéing process for a hint of heat.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant infusion of flavor.
Slow Cooker Option: Transfer the seared beef and sautéed veggies to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for an easy hands-off approach.

Serving Suggestions for Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast

Creamy Polenta: Serve your pot roast over a bed of creamy polenta for a comforting twist.
Mashed Potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes work wonderfully to soak up the rich sauce.
Crusty Bread: Offer thick slices of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.
Refreshing Salad: Pair with a light mixed green salad to balance the richness.
Red Wine: Enjoy a glass of Chianti or your favorite robust red wine alongside.

FAQs about Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast

Can I make Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! After searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Set it on low for 6 to 8 hours. This is a great option for a hands-off approach.

What can I serve with Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast?

You can pair it with creamy polenta, mashed potatoes, or thick slices of crusty bread. A light salad makes a refreshing side, too!

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can try brisket or round roast, but be mindful that cooking times may vary. Chuck roast is preferred for its tenderness in slow cooking.

How should I store leftovers of Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to three months for future meals.

Can I add more vegetables to the pot roast?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in potatoes, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Final Thoughts on Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast

There’s something truly special about bringing a dish like Stracotto Italian Style Pot Roast to the table. It’s not just about enjoying a hearty meal; it’s about creating memories and sharing moments with family. The captivating aroma fills the home, welcoming everyone to gather together. Each tender bite melts in your mouth, reminding us of comforts from our childhoods or family gatherings. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply attempting a cozy weeknight dinner, this pot roast is bound to become a beloved staple in your household. Let the warmth and flavors fill your heart and home!