I Made Ina Garten's Pot Roast, And It Smelled So Good My Neighbors Came Over
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I've always been of the opinion that cold, overcast days call for comfort food, as well as plenty of other days when you're simply craving something that fills up your soul with warmth and flavor. Pot roast happens to be one of those ultimate comfort foods, which is how Ina Garten's Company Pot Roast became quite the popular dinner in my house, reserved for both special occasions and nights when I want an ultra-cozy meal. My house doesn't have a fireplace—but give me a Dutch oven, a bunch of root vegetables, and a nice cut of meat, and I'll set the scene in no time. For the simplicity of this recipe at a glance—meat, vegetables, potatoes if I'm feeling hearty, au jus—it delivers in droves of flavor that leaves everyone asking for more.
While some pot roast recipes stick entirely to the basics, Ina Garten's rendition—in true Barefoot Contessa fashion—goes above and beyond. Trust me, it's worth every extra minute. Here is what makes her pot roast recipe special enough to try tonight.
Related: 21 Essential Ina Garten Recipes Everyone Should Master
How To Make Ina Garten's Company Pot Roast
Let's get one thing clear: This roast is not made in the slow cooker. Is it slow cooked? You bet—but set it and forget it, you cannot. It all starts with dousing the meat in flour, then searing it on every side, including the ends. The process will take a bit of time, but every minute will be repaid with abounding flavor when you dish it up a few hours later.
The next thing you'll do is pile in a bunch of veggies. They'll be cooked down for about 15 minutes, at which time you'll add Cognac and red wine to the mix. Let it start simmering, then throw in the rest of the good stuff like tomatoes, stock, herbs, a bouillon cube, seasoning, and that perfectly seared piece of meat. Finally, pop it in the oven.
Let the pot simmer away for a few hours until the meat is practically falling apart. When you gently touch the beef with your fork and it shreds away, you know you've reached the mark. To really bring it over the top, Ina calls for simmering a small mixture of butter and flour just before plating. It'll help the gravy thicken to the perfect consistency. Serve, and expect plenty of compliments.
Why I Love This "Company Worthy" Recipe
Now, give me a topic I'm passionate about and I'll talk your ear off, which is how I almost over-cooked Ina's glorious Company Pot Roast. Almost. I stepped outside when I was about an hour into the cook time and was met by my neighbor who immediately wanted to know what the delicious smell coming from our house was. The folks around the dinner table later instantly noted the same thing: just how good it smelled, followed by rave reviews on the taste as well. Leftovers sadly weren't in the picture afterward. If you're looking for a company-worthy dinner recipe, this is it; and I am not immune to wanting compliments.
It might take patience to get this pot roast to perfection—but oh my, is it worth it. I absolutely adored the smooth, decadent sauce that comes from pureeing about half of the delicious sauce and veggies together. I also appreciate the versatility with which you can serve this pot roast—with mashed potatoes, rice, or just baskets of crusty bread. Any starchy side to soak up all the goodness! You won't want to miss a drop.
More Pot Roast Dinner Recipes To Try
Greg Dupree, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely
Who can resist a pot roast dinner? If you prefer to compare Ina's perfect pot roast with other variations, try some of our other favorite pot roast recipes at home.
You'll hardly be left without dinnertime inspiration, just make sure to give yourself plenty of time for the flavors to come together.
Read the original article on Southern Living
