Italian-Style Pot Roast (Stracotto-Inspired)

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Italian-Style Pot Roast (Stracotto-Inspired)

 Description

Italian-style pot roast is a slow-cooked beef dish braised until fork-tender in a savory sauce with vegetables and herbs. Unlike sugary or creamy roasts, this version focuses on deep flavor from herbs, vegetables, and slow cooking, making it comforting and balanced.

 Servings

4–6 servings

 Ingredients

  • 3–4 lb beef chuck roast

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 large onion, chopped

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 4 carrots, peeled & cut into chunks

  • 4–5 potatoes, cut into chunks

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 1 cup crushed tomatoes or tomato purée

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Salt & black pepper to taste

  • Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

 Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 165°C / 325°F

  2. Season the roast with salt and pepper

  3. Heat olive oil in a heavy oven-safe pot and sear roast on all sides

  4. Remove roast; sauté onion and garlic until soft

  5. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, broth, and herbs

  6. Return roast to pot and add vegetables

  7. Cover and cook 3–3½ hours, turning once, until tender

  8. Remove bay leaf, garnish with parsley, and serve

 Notes & Tips

  • Chuck roast works best because it becomes tender when slow-cooked

  • Cut vegetables large so they don’t overcook

  • For thicker sauce, uncover for the last 20–30 minutes

  • Tastes even better the next day

Nutritional Info (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: ~420

  • Protein: ~38 g

  • Fat: ~22 g

  • Carbohydrates: ~25 g

  • Fiber: ~4 g

  • Sodium: varies by broth used

 Benefits

✔ High in protein for muscle and growth
✔ Provides iron, zinc, and B vitamins
✔ Balanced meal with vegetables and healthy fats
✔ No added sugar required

Tip for balance: Pair with a salad or steamed greens.

 Q & A

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes—cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.

Q: Is this kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely. The flavors are mild and comforting.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months.

Q: Can I skip potatoes?
A: Yes—replace with mushrooms or extra carrots if preferred.

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