A Very Special Pot Roast for the Crock Pot
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours and 5 minutes
Description: This delightful pot roast recipe transforms a simple beef chuck roast into an extraordinary family favorite with the addition of spices and mixed dried fruits. The key is to use regular-sized dried apples, peaches, pears, and plums, not the tiny bits typically found in baking aisles. This slow-cooked marvel is perfect for potlucks and is kid-friendly, making it a great choice for both casual dinners and special gatherings.
Category: Meat
Keywords: Fruit, Vegetable, Meat, Kid Friendly, Potluck, Savory, Easy, Inexpensive
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of boneless beef chuck roast
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 large onion, cut into wedges
- 1 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 cup dried mixed fruit (apples, peaches, pears, and plums)
- 1 cup apple juice
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (for browning the meat)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Meat: Begin by trimming any excess fat from the boneless beef chuck roast. If necessary, cut the meat into smaller pieces to fit your slow cooker, ideally a 3 1/2 to 4-quart size.
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Brown the Meat: In a Dutch oven or large skillet, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the beef chuck roast into the pan and sear it on all sides until it is nicely browned. This step helps to develop a rich, savory flavor. As the roast browns, season it generously with salt and black pepper.
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Prepare the Slow Cooker: Place the dried mixed fruit in the bottom of the slow cooker. If there are any large pieces of fruit, cut them into smaller chunks to ensure they distribute evenly. Arrange the onion wedges on top of the fruit.
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Assemble the Roast: Carefully place the browned beef chuck roast on top of the fruit and onions in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the roast with ground allspice to add a warm, aromatic flavor. Pour the apple juice over the roast and vegetables, ensuring the liquid covers the ingredients.
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Cook the Roast: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. For the best results, cook on the low setting for 8 to 10 hours. If you’re short on time, you can cook on the high setting for 4 to 5 hours. The roast is ready when it is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
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Serve: Once cooked, remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with the fruity, savory cooking juices drizzled over the top, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 524.2
- Fat Content: 32.1 grams
- Saturated Fat Content: 12.3 grams
- Cholesterol Content: 104.3 milligrams
- Sodium Content: 97.8 milligrams
- Carbohydrate Content: 30.6 grams
- Fiber Content: 3.5 grams
- Sugar Content: 5.3 grams
- Protein Content: 29.2 grams
Servings: 6
This recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy days or special occasions, it combines savory beef with the sweet and tangy notes of dried fruit for a truly unique dish. Enjoy! 🍂🥩🍏
