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To make a great Italian pot roast, you need quality ingredients. Each one adds flavor and depth.

Italian Pot Roast (Stracotto)

Elevate your dinner game with a delicious Italian pot roast, or Stracotto! This flavorful cooking guide reveals essential ingredients, cooking techniques, and perfect side dishes to create a heartwarming meal. Learn how to achieve tender, juicy beef with rich sauces that will impress family and friends. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure?
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Ingredients
  

3 to 4 lbs beef chuck roast

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 cups beef broth

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice

2 carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, sliced

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Sear the Meat: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef roast generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the roast to the pot and sear on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

    Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

      Build the Flavor Base: Pour in the beef broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze, incorporating all the flavorful bits. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), carrots, celery, oregano, basil, and the bay leaf. Stir to combine.

        Slow Cook the Roast: Return the seared beef roast to the pot, submerging it in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 3 to 4 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.

          Final Touches: Once cooked, remove the roast from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Discard the bay leaf. If desired, you can blend the sauce for a smoother consistency or leave it chunky.

            Serve: Slice the roast and serve it with the sauce poured over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes | Servings: 6-8

                - Presentation Tips: Serve the pot roast on a large platter with a generous spoonful of sauce on top. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty Italian bread for a hearty meal.