Save A succulent, fork-tender pot roast infused with tangy pickle brine and aromatic spices, delivering a unique depth of flavor and irresistible juiciness.
The first time I made this pickle brine pot roast, my family was skeptical, but the result was so tender and flavorful that everyone asked for seconds.
Ingredients
- Beef: 3 lb (1.4 kg) beef chuck roast, trimmed, 1 tsp kosher salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Marinade: 1 1/2 cups dill pickle brine (from a jar of pickles), 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 2 tbsp brown sugar, 4 cloves garlic (smashed), 1 tbsp whole grain mustard
- Vegetables: 1 large onion (sliced), 3 carrots (peeled and cut into large chunks), 3 celery stalks (cut into large chunks), 1 lb (450 g) baby potatoes (halved)
- Cooking: 2 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Prep the Beef:
- Pat the beef dry and season all sides with salt and pepper.
- Make the Marinade:
- Combine pickle brine, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and mustard in a bowl or zip-top bag. Submerge beef and marinate in refrigerator at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Sear the Beef:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove beef from marinade (reserve marinade) and pat dry. Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear beef on all sides until browned, about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Remove beef, set aside. Add onions, carrots, and celery to pot. Sauté for 3–4 minutes, scraping up browned bits.
- Combine and Cook:
- Return beef to pot, nestling among vegetables. Add potatoes. Pour in reserved marinade and beef broth. Bring to a simmer, cover, and transfer to oven.
- Roast:
- Roast for 3 hours, or until beef is fork-tender.
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove from oven, let rest 10 minutes, then slice or shred beef. Serve with vegetables and pan juices.
Save Sharing this dish at Sunday supper always brings smiles, especially when everyone gathers around for seconds.
Required Tools
Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed oven-safe pot, tongs, cutting board, knife
Allergen Information
Contains none of the major allergens. Check the Worcestershire sauce label for fish or gluten if sensitive.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 420, Total Fat: 18 g, Carbohydrates: 25 g, Protein: 39 g (per serving)
Save This pot roast is sure to impress with its bold flavors and juicy texture. Serve with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → What does pickle brine add to the pot roast?
Pickle brine imparts a subtle tanginess and tenderizes the beef, enhancing the overall flavor complexity of the dish.
- → How long should the beef marinate in the brine?
Marinate the beef for at least 2 hours; overnight marination develops deeper flavor and tenderness.
- → Can I use a different cut of beef aside from chuck roast?
Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and texture, but other slow-cooking cuts like brisket or shoulder can also work well.
- → Is it necessary to sear the meat before slow cooking?
Searing the meat creates a flavorful crust and helps retain juices during the long cooking process.
- → What vegetables pair best with this pot roast style?
Onions, carrots, celery, and baby potatoes complement the savory, tangy flavors and add heartiness to the dish.
- → Can I add sliced pickles or pepperoncini during cooking?
Yes, adding sliced pickles or pepperoncini in the final cooking hour enhances brininess and adds a slight spicy kick.