Ingredients
Method
- Pat the chuck roast pieces completely dry with paper towels. Season generously on all sides with salt and pepper.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast pieces on all sides until deeply browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to your slow cooker.
- In the same skillet, add the onions and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the tomato paste to the skillet and stir for 1 minute. Pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
- Pour the onion mixture over the meat in the slow cooker. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves.
- Add the carrots and potatoes around the meat. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours.
- In the last hour of cooking, add the quartered mushrooms to the slow cooker.
- When the meat is fork-tender, remove the roast and vegetables to a serving platter. Discard the bay leaves.
- To make gravy, strain the cooking liquid into a measuring cup. Mix cornstarch with cold water until smooth, then whisk into the cooking liquid.
- Pour the mixture back into the slow cooker and cook on high for 10-15 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Slice the pot roast against the grain and serve with the vegetables and gravy.
Notes
The roast can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day. For a richer flavor, sear the vegetables along with the meat, though this isn't necessary. If you don't have red wine, just use extra beef broth. The cooking time can vary depending on your slow cooker, but the meat should easily shred with a fork when it's done.
