Step into the inviting kitchens of New England and discover a dish that embodies the essence of homestyle cooking—Yankee Pot Roast. Rooted in a tradition of simplicity and hearty flavors, this beloved classic has long been a symbol of comfort and nourishment.
Imagine a tender, succulent cut of beef, slowly simmered in a flavorful broth until it becomes melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The pot roast is often accompanied by an array of aromatic vegetables such as carrots, onions, and potatoes, which infuse the dish with their rich flavors and complement the robust meat.
Yankee Pot Roast owes its charm to its humble origins, reflecting the resourcefulness of early New England settlers who made the most of their ingredients. With time, this dish has become synonymous with the region’s warm hospitality and commitment to satisfying, homemade meals that bring families and friends together.
The preparation of Yankee Pot Roast is as comforting as the dish itself. The meat is seared to lock in its juices and create a flavorful crust, then slowly braised with aromatic herbs and spices. As it cooks, the savory aromas fill the kitchen, creating an anticipation that is rewarded when the tender meat is finally served, alongside the tender vegetables and rich, savory gravy.
Yankee Pot Roast is a versatile dish, suitable for both casual family gatherings and special occasions. It can be enjoyed as a centerpiece of a comforting Sunday dinner or as a comforting meal on a cold winter night. The leftovers, if there are any, can be transformed into delightful sandwiches or repurposed into a flavorful hash, ensuring that no morsel goes to waste.
So, invite the warmth and comfort of New England into your home with a steaming plate of Yankee Pot Roast. Let the rich flavors, tender meat, and aromatic vegetables transport you to a place where time slows down and the love put into homemade meals takes center stage. Indulge in this homestyle favorite, and savor the heartwarming experience of sharing a meal that nourishes both the body and the soul.
PREP: 20 MIN.
COOK: 2¾ HOURS
MAKES: 12-14 SERVINGS
INGREDIENTS
- 1 boneless beef chuck roast (4 to 5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 2 large onions, coarsely chopped
- 2 cups sliced carrots
- 2 celery ribs, sliced
- 2 cans (14½ ounces each) Italian stewed tomatoes
- 1¾ cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into eighths
INSTRUCTIONS
- In a Dutch oven, heat the canola oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chuck roast on all sides until it develops a nice sear. Remove the roast from the pan and set it aside to keep warm.
- In the same Dutch oven, add the chopped onions, sliced carrots, sliced celery, Italian stewed tomatoes (including the juice from the cans), water, salt, dried thyme, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Return the browned roast to the pan with the vegetables and liquid. Reduce the heat to low, cover the Dutch oven, and simmer for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender.
- After 2 hours, add the peeled and cut potatoes to the Dutch oven. Cover again and continue cooking for an additional 40 minutes or until the meat and vegetables are fork-tender.
- Once the pot roast and vegetables are cooked to perfection, remove the Dutch oven from the heat.
- Serve the pot roast by slicing it into thick pieces and arranging them on a serving platter. Surround the meat with the cooked vegetables and drizzle some of the flavorful pan juices over the top.
- Enjoy this comforting and flavorful pot roast with your loved ones.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS:
- Serve this delicious pot roast with a side of mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal. Don’t forget to pour some of the flavorful pan juices over the meat and vegetables for added richness.
- This recipe yields approximately 12-14 servings. Adjust the quantities accordingly based on your desired number of servings.