Sweet-Sour Pot Roast
A tangy and sweet pot roast infused with honey, lemon, and spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions with a rich, tender meat flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat shortening in a Dutch oven or heavy skillet with a tight-fitting lid.
- Add the chuck or rump roast and sliced onions to the pan.
- Brown the meat and onions, turning often to ensure even coloring.
- Add pepper, ground cloves, honey, sugar, lemon juice, and salt to the pan.
- Cover tightly with the lid.
- Simmer slowly over heat or bake in a 300°F oven for 3 to 3½ hours, until the meat is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the roast overnight with the honey, lemon juice, and spices. If you don't have Crisco, any vegetable oil can be a suitable substitute. For a twist, try adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the umami profile. This Sweet-Sour Pot Roast pairs beautifully with Summertime Rice Salad for a refreshing side.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sweet-Sour Pot Roast with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. Steamed vegetables or a simple green salad make excellent accompaniments. For a complete meal, pair it with My Slaw to add a crunchy texture and balance the rich flavors of the roast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pot roast can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the roast in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, covered, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet-Sour Pot Roast contains roughly 45 calories, with 3g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% 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 meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a different cut such as brisket or even a pork shoulder. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the cut's thickness and fat content. Ensure the meat is well-browned for the best flavor.
How can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
To adapt this recipe for a slow cooker, brown the meat and onions first, then transfer them to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender. This method will infuse the flavors beautifully.
What can I do if the sauce is too sweet?
If the sauce turns out too sweet, you can balance it by adding a bit more lemon juice or vinegar to cut through the sweetness. Taste as you go to ensure you achieve the desired flavor balance.
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).