Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This easy arm roast recipe delivers juicy, tender perfection without hours of slaving over a hot stove. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a delicious and healthy homemade dish that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant, but is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb boneless beef arm roast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Searing the Roast
Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Season the beef roast generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Remove the roast from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Deglazing the Pan
Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. This process, called deglazing, adds incredible depth of flavor to your gravy.
Step 4: Braising the Roast
Return the seared roast to the skillet. Add the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the skillet and transfer it to the preheated oven.
Step 5: Slow Cooking to Perfection
Braising the roast at a low temperature ensures tenderness and allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Cook for approximately 2-2.5 hours, or until the internal temperature of the roast reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C) for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.
Step 6: Resting and Serving
Once cooked, remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast. Slice the roast against the grain and serve it with the delicious braising liquid as a gravy. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.
Cooking Tips for the Best Arm Roast:
- Choose a good quality roast: The better the quality of the beef, the better the flavor of your dish.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure enough space in the skillet for proper searing. Work in batches if necessary.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure your roast is cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your roast. Always check the internal temperature.
Variations:
- Add potatoes: Toss some quartered potatoes with the carrots and celery during step 2 for a complete one-pan meal.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Herb variations: Experiment with other herbs like oregano, sage, or bay leaves.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of your roast and the number of servings. For a more precise calculation, use an online nutritional calculator. However, this recipe generally provides a good source of protein and iron, while being relatively low in carbohydrates.
This easy arm roast recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Its rich flavor and tender texture will undoubtedly become a family favorite. Enjoy!