Beef Pot Roast with Brandy Recipe
An Elevated Take on a Classic Comfort Food
This Beef Pot Roast with Brandy recipe offers an unforgettable twist on a classic dish, adding depth and sophistication with the warm, rich flavor of brandy. Perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, this one-dish meal combines tender beef, hearty vegetables, and a flavorful gravy to create a satisfying and delicious meal. The brandy enhances the savory richness of the roast, creating a dish that’s both comforting and impressive.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 5 minutes
- Category: One Dish Meal
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 1362.9 per serving
- Rating: 4 stars (based on 1 review)
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Onion (chopped) | 3 medium |
| Carrots (peeled and cut) | 1 cup |
| Celery (chopped) | 4 stalks |
| Brandy | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh thyme | 1 tbsp |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Button mushrooms (sliced) | 2 cups |
| Potatoes (peeled and halved) | 2 medium |
| Butter | 1 tbsp |
| Flour | 1 tbsp |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 1362.9 kcal |
| Fat | 70.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 27.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 234.7 mg |
| Sodium | 672.4 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 66.2 g |
| Fiber | 9.8 g |
| Sugar | 7.4 g |
| Protein | 72.4 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Roast
In a large skillet with a cover, heat olive oil over high heat. Once the oil begins to shimmer and is just about to smoke, add the beef roast. Brown the roast on all sides, seasoning generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. -
Cook the Vegetables
Once the roast is browned, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet. Stir the vegetables to coat them with the oil and meat drippings. Allow the vegetables to cook for about 3 minutes, softening slightly. -
Deglaze and Add Flavor
Pour the brandy into the skillet, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. This is where much of the flavor lies. Add the beef stock, bringing the mixture to a boil. Stir in the fresh thyme and bay leaf, and then cover the skillet with a lid. -
Slow Cook the Roast
Reduce the heat to a low simmer. Let the roast cook for 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the meat to become tender. -
Add Mushrooms and Potatoes
After 2 hours, add the sliced button mushrooms and halved potatoes to the skillet. Cover and continue cooking for an additional 45 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the roast is fork-tender. -
Rest the Roast
Once the roast is fully cooked, remove it from the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Tent the roast with aluminum foil to keep it warm while you prepare the sauce. -
Prepare the Gravy
Using a slotted spoon, carefully remove the vegetables from the pan and transfer them to a serving bowl. Increase the heat on the skillet to bring the cooking liquid to a boil. Allow the liquid to reduce to your desired consistency. -
Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
For a thicker gravy, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon of flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually pour in the pan drippings, whisking vigorously until the gravy reaches your desired thickness. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Slice and Serve
Once the sauce has reached the perfect consistency, slice the pot roast against the grain. Serve the roast slices alongside the vegetables and potatoes. Pour the gravy over the top, or serve it on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
Tips for Success
- Browning the Meat: Don’t skip the step of browning the roast. This helps to develop deep flavors that will infuse the meat and vegetables throughout the cooking process.
- Brandy Choice: Choose a good-quality brandy for the best flavor. While it doesn’t need to be top-shelf, avoid anything too cheap as it can affect the overall taste.
- Slow Cooking: For the most tender roast, be sure to keep the heat low and let it cook slowly. This allows the meat to break down, becoming juicy and full of flavor.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made a day in advance. The flavors develop even further when left to sit overnight. Just reheat gently and serve!
This Beef Pot Roast with Brandy recipe is a great way to bring a comforting, hearty meal to the table with a touch of elegance. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a holiday gathering. The savory combination of beef, vegetables, and a rich, brandy-infused gravy is sure to impress everyone at your table. Enjoy every tender bite of this hearty dish, and let the flavors linger long after the meal is done!
