North Woods Hearty Pot Roast

Cook up this hearty pot roast braised with chunky fresh vegetables in a savory gravy.

Ingredients

• 1 beef Cross Rib Roast, Shoulder Roast or Arm Roast (about 2 to 2-1/2 pounds)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 pound small red-skinned potatoes, cut in half, or into quarters if large
• 4 medium carrots, cut into 2-1/2 x 1/2- inch pieces
• 2 medium parsnips, cut into 2-1/2 x 1/2-inch pieces
• 1 small leek, (white and pale green parts only), cut in half lengthwise then crosswise into 1-1/2 inch pieces
• 1 cup beef broth
• 4 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch

• 2 teaspoons seasoned pepper blend or garlic-pepper seasoning
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic

Instructions

1. Combine seasoning ingredients; press evenly onto all surfaces beef Cross Rib Roast. Heat oil in stockpot over medium heat until hot. Brown pot roast on all sides. Pour off drippings and season beef with salt.

2. Add broth to stockpot; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer 2 hours. Add vegetables; continue cooking, covered, 30 to 45 minutes or until pot roast and vegetables are fork-tender.

3. Remove pot roast and vegetables; keep warm. Strain cooking liquid; skim fat, if necessary. Measure 2 cups cooking liquid (Add beef broth or water to cooking liquid to yield 2 cups, if necessary.); return to stockpot. Combine water and cornstarch; stir into cooking liquid. Bring to boil, stirring constantly; cook and stir 1 to 2 minutes or until mixture is thickened.

4. Carve pot roast into thin slices. Season with salt, as desired. Serve with vegetables and gravy.

• Test Kitchen Tips Cook until fork-tender. When fork can be inserted without resistance and releases easily when pulled out, the beef is done.