Lillian Hellman’s Pot Roast, as described in Nora Ephron’s book “Heartburn,” offers a delightfully easy approach to a classic dish. This recipe is perfect for those times when you’re short on prep time or craving something straightforward yet delicious. Here’s a detailed exploration of the recipe:
Recipe Details
Name: Lillian Hellman’s Pot Roast
Cook Time: 4 hours
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours 5 minutes
Description: This recipe, discovered in Nora Ephron’s “Heartburn,” is a simple yet surprisingly delicious pot roast that requires minimal effort. Perfect for when you’re in a rush or seeking a change from the usual pot roast routine. It’s also great for making sandwiches the next day.
Recipe Category: Meat
Keywords: Very Low Carbs, Potluck, Weeknight, Roast, Oven, Easy
Aggregated Rating: 4.5 (based on 3 reviews)

Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 914.4
- Total Fat: 62.5g
- Saturated Fat: 24.7g
- Cholesterol: 209mg
- Sodium: 1032.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 12.6g
- Fiber: 0.9g
- Sugars: 3.6g
- Protein: 57.3g
Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef roast
- 1 onion
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 cup red wine
- 3 bay leaves
- 2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the ingredients: Chop the onion, mince the garlic.
- Combine all ingredients in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven.
- Cover the pot with a lid.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 3 1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Tips
- Choosing the Roast: Opt for a cut of beef that is suitable for slow cooking, such as chuck roast.
- Wine Selection: Use a red wine that you enjoy drinking, as its flavor will infuse into the meat.
- Enhance Flavors: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to suit your taste. Fresh herbs can also be used for a more vibrant flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the pot roast hot, straight from the oven, alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
- For leftovers, the meat makes excellent sandwiches. Shred the beef and serve it on toasted rolls with a bit of horseradish or mustard for added kick.
Conclusion
Lillian Hellman’s Pot Roast, despite its simple preparation method, offers rich flavors and tender meat that make it a standout dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or simply want a hearty meal without the fuss, this recipe delivers on taste and convenience. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the satisfying results that come with this classic comfort food.