Ingredients:

• 3-4 pounds beef chuck roast

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups beef broth

• 1 cup red wine (optional)

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• 3 celery stalks, cut into chunks

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat:

   • Pat the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels.

   • Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.

2. Sear the Meat:

   • In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

   • Add the roast and sear it on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the roast from the pot and set aside.

3. Cook the Aromatics:

   • In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.

   • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes.

4. Deglaze the Pot:

   • Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using) to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

   • Add the Worcestershire sauce and stir to combine.

5. Add the Roast and Vegetables:

   • Return the seared roast to the pot.

   • Add the carrots, potatoes, celery, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary around the roast.

6. Braise the Roast:

   • Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the pot with a lid.

   • Reduce the heat to low and let it cook slowly for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.

7. Serve:

   • Remove the roast from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

   • Arrange the meat and vegetables on a serving platter.

   • Skim any excess fat from the surface of the cooking liquid and discard the bay leaves.

   • Spoon some of the cooking liquid over the meat and vegetables.

   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

This classic Yankee Pot Roast is perfect for a cozy family dinner, bringing together the rich flavors of tender beef and hearty vegetables. Enjoy!