Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 325°F. Pat the roast dry and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides.
- Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until deep brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove roast and set aside.
- In the same pot, add onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until starting to soften. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Add wine if using and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add beef stock, bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary.
- Return the roast to the pot. Add carrots and potatoes around the sides. The liquid should come about halfway up the roast. Add more stock or water if needed.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover tightly and transfer to the oven. Cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
- Add celery pieces during the last 45 minutes of cooking to prevent them from getting too soft.
- Remove roast and vegetables to a serving platter. Tent with foil to keep warm.
- For gravy: Place the pot on the stovetop over medium heat. If desired, whisk flour with a few tablespoons of cold water to make a slurry, then whisk into the pan juices. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened. Strain if desired and season with salt and pepper.
- Slice the roast against the grain and serve with vegetables and gravy.
Notes
The roast can be made up to 2 days ahead and reheated gently. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For extra flavor, you can brown the vegetables alongside the meat in step 2 before adding the liquids.
