Thursday, 6 November 2025

Slow Cooker Roast Beef with Rich Sauce

 

Ingredients:

For the braised roast

1.5 to 2 kg (3 to 4 lb) roast beef (chuck, shoulder or breast)

2 medium onions, sliced

4 medium carrots, cut into pieces

2 stalks of celery, diced

3 cloves of garlic, chopped

2 cups (500 ml) beef broth

2 tablespoons of tomato paste

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon of dried thyme

1 teaspoon of dried rosemary

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons of olive oil

For the sauce

2 cups (500 ml) filtered cooking liquid

2 tablespoons of cornstarch

2 tablespoons of cold water

Methods:


Methods:

Step 1: Prepare and sear the roast

1. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium-high heat.

2. Season the beef generously with salt and pepper.

3. Sear the beef on all sides until golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes on each side.

Step 2: Assemble the slow cooker

1. Place the onions, carrots, celery and garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.

2. Place the seared roast on the vegetables.



Step 3: Add flavorful liquids

1. In a bowl, combine beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme and rosemary.

2. Pour the mixture over the beef and vegetables.

Step 4: Cooking

Low setting: 8 to 10 hours

High setting: 4 to 5 hours

Step 5: Prepare the sauce

1. Remove the beef and vegetables and keep them warm.

2. Strain 2 cups of the cooking liquid into a saucepan.

3. Mix the cornstarch and cold water in a small bowl, then add it to the liquid.

4. Heat over medium heat, stirring, until sauce thickens, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Cut or shred the beef, serve with vegetables and drizzle with sauce.

Tips for success:

Sear the beef gives it a rich and intense flavor. Don't skip this step!

Use fresh herbs if available for an extra layer of aroma.

Add new potatoes for a complete meal in one saucepan.

If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a little cream at the end.

Benefits of this recipe:

Effortless: The slow cooker does most of the work for you.

Nutritious: Rich in protein, fiber and essential vitamins.

Economical: Uses affordable cuts of beef that become tender with slow cooking.

Suitable for families: popular with children and adults.

Timing:

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 8 to 10 hours over low heat or 4 to 5 hours over high heat
Total time: up to 10 hours (no intervention cooking time included!)