Pot Roast With Natural Gravy
A hearty pot roast with tender beef and rich, natural gravy, perfect for comforting family dinners and flavorful gatherings that appreciate slow-cooked, savory dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large heavy pot, add the oil and beef.
- Brown the meat on both sides.
- Add water to cover the meat.
- Cook over medium heat until the meat is tender and can be easily broken apart with a fork, usually 4 to 5 hours.
- While cooking, watch the water and prevent it from boiling away completely; let it boil down to about 1 1/2 cups of broth.
- Keep it at this level until the meat is done.
- Carefully remove the meat to a serving dish.
- The remaining broth can be used as is or thickened by mixing 1 tablespoon of flour with 1/2 cup of water, then adding it to the broth to make a thicker gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, season the roast with salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper a few hours before cooking or overnight. If you don't have fresh broth, using low-sodium beef broth can enhance the flavor. To vary the taste, consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme. For a different texture, substitute the beef with a pork roast or chicken, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pot roast with its natural gravy over mashed potatoes or egg noodles for a comforting meal. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for balance. This dish pairs beautifully with Wilma Taylor's Meat Loaf for a hearty family gathering, making it an excellent choice for special occasions.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pot roast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the meat and broth in a pot over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it looks dry. Alternatively, use a microwave in short intervals, ensuring even heating without overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pot Roast With Natural Gravy contains roughly 904 calories, with 1g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 100g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1478mg per serving (64% 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 pot roast?
Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket, which also become tender with slow cooking. Just ensure the cut has enough marbling for moisture and flavor. Adjust cooking times based on the size and thickness of the cut.
What can I do if my broth reduces too much?
If your broth reduces more than 1 1/2 cups, simply add a bit of water or beef broth to bring it back to the desired level. Stir well to incorporate the flavors, and adjust seasoning as needed to maintain the taste.
How can I make the gravy richer?
For a richer gravy, consider deglazing the pot with a splash of red wine after removing the roast, scraping up any browned bits. Additionally, adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can enhance the depth of flavor in your gravy.
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).