Embrace the comforting flavors of Italy with this Slow Cooker Tuscan Herb Beef. It’s a dish that combines rich, hearty ingredients with the ease of slow cooking, making it perfect for a cozy dinner at home. Let your slow cooker do the work while you savor the aroma that fills your kitchen.
Beef chuck roast is the star, known for its rich flavor and tenderness when slow-cooked. Beef broth adds depth, while red wine brings a touch of sophistication and complements the beef beautifully. Balsamic vinegar introduces a hint of tanginess, balancing the richness. Onion, garlic, carrot, and red bell pepper provide a hearty base and a pop of color. Tomato paste thickens the sauce, and dried Italian herbs infuse it with Tuscan flavors. Salt and black pepper enhance all these tastes, while fresh basil adds a fresh, aromatic finish. Finally, olive oil helps sear the beef, locking in its juices.
This dish pairs beautifully with creamy polenta or garlic mashed potatoes, which will soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, try serving it over a bed of fresh arugula or alongside roasted vegetables.
First, grab a skillet and heat olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to give the beef chuck roast a good sear, which means browning it on all sides. This step locks in the juices and adds a lovely depth of flavor.
Once seared, move the beef into your slow cooker. This is where the magic happens. Add in the onion, garlic, carrot, and red bell pepper around the beef. These veggies will cook and soften, soaking up all the wonderful flavors.
In a bowl, mix together beef broth, red wine, balsamic vinegar, tomato paste, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Pour this mixture over everything in the slow cooker. Make sure the beef is partially submerged to ensure it soaks up all that goodness.
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Now, let it cook for about eight hours. This is when you can relax, knowing dinner is practically making itself.
Once the time is up, remove the beef and shred it with two forks. This should be easy, as it’s perfectly tender. Stir in fresh basil just before serving to add a final burst of freshness.
Share