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Ultimate Slow Braised Beef Roast w/ Cranberry Balsamic Glaze

Ultimate Slow Braised Beef Roast w/ Cranberry Balsamic Glaze Delight

A sumptuous slow-cooked beef roast with a sweet-tart cranberry balsamic glaze, perfect for any gathering.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Resting Time 20 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Beef
  • 3-4 lb Boneless beef chuck roast Essential for rich flavor, choose well-marbled cuts for ultimate tenderness.
  • 2 teaspoons Sea salt Enhances every bite; adjust to your taste preference.
  • 1 teaspoon Freshly ground black pepper Adds a touch of spice; feel free to increase for heat.
For the Aromatics
  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil Perfect for searing, creating a delectable crust on the roast.
  • 1 large Yellow onion Roughly chopped; shallots can provide a sweeter alternative.
  • 2 Carrots Peeled and roughly chopped; parsnips are a great substitute.
  • 2 Celery stalks Roughly chopped; optional but delicious.
  • 4-6 cloves Garlic Minced; rich in flavor; fresh is best.
For Flavoring
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato paste Deepens flavor and adds richness.
  • 1 cup Beef broth For deglazing.
  • 4 cups Low sodium beef broth Provides moisture and flavor during the braise.
  • 2 tablespoons Balsamic vinegar For braise.
  • ½ cup Balsamic vinegar For glaze.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Enhances umami deliciousness.
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard Adds tangy depth.
For the Herbs and Spice
  • 2-3 sprigs Fresh rosemary Infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
  • 4-5 sprigs Fresh thyme Adds a delightful herbal note.
  • 2 Bay leaves Contributes subtle depth; remember to remove them before serving.
  • ½ teaspoon Smoked paprika Imparts a warm, smoky flavor; optional.
For the Glaze
  • 12 oz Fresh or frozen cranberries The star flavor of the glaze.
  • ¼ cup Brown sugar Packed.
  • ½ orange Orange zest and juice From ½ orange; brightens the sauce.
  • ¼ teaspoon Ground cinnamon Optional; adds warmth.
  • pinch Salt Adjust for a perfectly balanced flavor.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • medium saucepan
  • Fine-mesh sieve

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Begin by patting your boneless beef chuck roast dry with paper towels to enhance the searing process.
  2. Generously season the beef with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.
  3. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  4. Carefully place the seasoned beef in the pot and sear it for 4-6 minutes on each side until it develops a rich, golden-brown crust.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium and add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté the mixture for 8-10 minutes.
  6. Add minced garlic cloves to the pot and stir for about 1 minute until fragrant, then incorporate tomato paste.
  7. Pour in 1 cup of beef broth, scraping up the fond from the bottom of the pot.
  8. Stir in the remaining beef broth, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
  9. Add rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves to the pot. Return the seared beef to the Dutch oven.
  10. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Cover the pot tightly with a lid.
  11. Let the roast braise in the oven for 3-4 hours, checking for tenderness.
  12. Once done, transfer the beef to a cutting board and tent it loosely with foil for 15-20 minutes.
  13. Using a fine-mesh sieve, carefully strain the braising liquid into a large bowl.
  14. Return the strained liquid to the stove and simmer it for 10-15 minutes until it reduces and thickens.
  15. In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, orange zest, and juice. Simmer the mixture for 8-12 minutes.
  16. Mix the prepared cranberry sauce with the reduced braising liquid.
  17. Using two forks, shred the beef into large chunks or slice it against the grain.
  18. Return the shredded or sliced beef to the pot with the glaze.
  19. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or alongside roasted root vegetables.

Nutrition

Serving: 8slicesCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 35gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Ensure to allow the roast to rest after braising for maximum tenderness.

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