Aunt Thelms'S Perking Roast Beef
A rich, slow-cooked beef roast infused with garlic, onion, and coffee, resulting in tender, flavorful meat perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut slits in the roast and insert slices of garlic and onion if desired.
- Place the beef in a bowl and pour 1 cup of vinegar over it, ensuring the vinegar runs into the slits.
- Refrigerate the beef for 24 to 48 hours.
- When ready to cook, pour off the vinegar and place the beef in a heavy pot, such as cast iron.
- Brown the beef in oil until very dark on both sides.
- Pour 2 cups of strong black coffee over the roast, add 2 cups of water, and cover.
- Cook slowly on top of the stove for 6 hours.
- Check occasionally and add more water if needed, never more than 1 cup at a time.
- Season with salt and pepper 20 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider marinating the roast in vinegar for the full 48 hours. If you prefer a milder taste, you can replace vinegar with citrus juice. Experiment with adding herbs like rosemary or thyme for additional depth. Browning the beef well is crucial for developing a rich flavor; don't skip this step. This recipe pairs beautifully with Beef Over Noodles or Oven Baked Beef.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the roast beef sliced thin against the grain for the best texture. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad. Consider serving it with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. This dish is also delicious in sandwiches, making it versatile for leftovers.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover roast beef can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, slice the beef and warm it gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can use the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat, as it can dry out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Thelms'S Perking Roast Beef contains roughly 1100 calories, with 24g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (48% of the Daily Value) and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1202mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, while the recipe calls for roast beef, you can use other cuts like chuck or brisket. These cuts are ideal for slow cooking and will yield tender results. Just adjust cooking time as needed based on the cut's size and thickness.
What can I serve with the roast beef?
This roast beef is excellent with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, or a crisp green salad. You might also enjoy it with a hearty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. For a comforting meal, serve it alongside creamy macaroni and cheese.
How do I know when the beef is done cooking?
The beef is done when it reaches your desired level of tenderness. For a fork-tender texture, you can test it after 6 hours of cooking. If using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of at least 145°F for medium-rare.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).