Savory French Onion Pot Roast Recipe

why make this recipe

Savory French Onion Pot Roast is perfect for anyone who loves hearty, comforting meals. This dish combines tender pot roast with sweet, caramelized onions, creating a delicious flavor that warms the heart. It’s an ideal meal for family gatherings or a quiet dinner at home. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to blend beautifully while making the meat incredibly tender. Plus, it’s a recipe that can be made ahead of time, enhancing the taste even more!

how to make Savory French Onion Pot Roast

Ingredients:

• 3 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil divided
• 3 lb boneless pot roast (chuck)
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 lbs yellow onions (about 8 medium-large)
• 2 cloves garlic finely chopped
• 1 Tablespoon pure maple syrup or brown sugar
• 1 Tablespoon all-purpose flour or gluten-free AP flour
• 1 cup red wine or more beef stock
• 2 1/2 cups beef stock
• 1 sprig fresh rosemary
• 1 bay leaf

Directions:

1. Preheat a Dutch oven over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Season the pot roast with half of the salt and pepper.
2. Carefully add the pot roast to the Dutch oven and sear on all sides until browned. Use a sturdy pair of tongs for this, about 10-12 minutes total.
3. Once browned, transfer the pot roast to a plate and let it rest.
4. Set up a food processor with a thin slicing attachment. Cut the onions in half and peel away the skins. Pass all the onions through the food processor.
5. Add the remaining olive oil to the Dutch oven. Add in the sliced onions, tossing them in the hot oil. Season with the remaining salt and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until they are translucent and limp, about 5 minutes.
6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook the onions, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes until they take on a light golden color. Make sure not to burn them and scrape the bottom of the pot often.
7. Preheat the oven to 300°F.
8. Add the garlic and the maple syrup to the onions. Cook for another 7-8 minutes, stirring frequently. The garlic will soften, and the maple will help caramelize the onions.
9. Sprinkle in the flour, stirring well to coat the onions. Deglaze the pan with the wine, then pour in the beef broth.
10. Return the pot roast to the Dutch oven. The French onion liquid should cover the roast. Add in the rosemary and bay leaf.
11. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the whole pot up to a simmer.
12. Clamp the lid on the Dutch oven and place the pot roast in the oven. Cook undisturbed for 3 hours.
13. After 3 hours, carefully turn the pot roast over in the juices, and pull it apart with two forks. It should pull apart easily.
14. Cover and return to the oven to cook another 30-45 minutes until it is meltingly tender.
15. Remove the pot roast from the oven and uncover it. For best results, let it cool completely, refrigerate, and then reheat for dinner the next day for flavors that have deepened.
16. Serve hot with mashed potatoes, polenta, or buttered egg noodles.

how to serve Savory French Onion Pot Roast

Savory French Onion Pot Roast is delicious served with side dishes like mashed potatoes for soaking up the flavorful broth, creamy polenta, or even buttered egg noodles. You can also add a side of steamed green vegetables for a pop of color and nutrition.

how to store Savory French Onion Pot Roast

To store leftovers, allow the pot roast to cool completely. Keep it in the Dutch oven if you can, or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pot roast in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.

tips to make Savory French Onion Pot Roast

• Make sure to sear the pot roast well to develop a rich flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients for the best taste. Fresh herbs like rosemary will add a wonderful aroma.
• If you want more depth of flavor, let the dish sit in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Adjust the seasoning at the end based on your personal preference.

variation

You can change up the flavors by adding different herbs or spices. Adding thyme along with the rosemary can give an additional layer of flavor. If you want to keep it simpler, you can skip the red wine and use extra beef stock instead for a milder taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round roast. Just make sure they have enough fat to remain tender during cooking.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour alternative. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

3. How can I reheat the pot roast?

You can reheat the pot roast on the stovetop over low heat or in the oven at a low temperature. Just ensure it’s heated all the way through before serving.