Ingredients

  • 3 pounds beef chuck roast
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 0.5 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 4 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, trimmed

Instructions

  1. Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned roast and sear it for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine beef broth, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, thyme, and rosemary. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
  5. Place the seared roast in the slow cooker. Add the sautéed onions and garlic on top. Pour the balsamic mixture over the roast.
  6. Layer the carrots, potatoes, and green beans around and on top of the roast.
  7. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
  8. Once cooked, carefully remove the beef and vegetables from the slow cooker. Let the meat rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  9. For a thicker sauce, turn the slow cooker to high and let it cook uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes while the sauce reduces.
  10. Slice the beef and serve with the vegetables, drizzled with the balsamic sauce from the slow cooker.

💡 Chef's Notes

Serve the sliced beef on a large platter surrounded by the colorful vegetables. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the top and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for additional aroma and visual appeal.

Recipe by Eleanor Whitford - Culinary Writer