Red wine: 1 cup (240ml, optional, substitute with more broth if preferred)
Worcestershire sauce: 2 tablespoons
Garlic cloves: 4-5, minced
Onion: 1 large, sliced
Carrots: 3-4, peeled and cut into chunks
Celery stalks: 2-3, cut into chunks
Potatoes: 4-5, peeled and cut into chunks
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Arm Roast
Season the Roast: Pat the arm roast dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, mix the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the entire surface of the roast.
Sear the Roast: Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in the juices and adds depth of flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Cooking Liquid
Deglaze the Pot: Remove the roast from the pot and set it aside. Add the minced garlic and sliced onion to the pot, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
Add Worcestershire Sauce: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce for an extra layer of umami flavor.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Roast
Return the Roast: Place the seared roast back into the pot, ensuring it’s submerged in the cooking liquid.
Add Vegetables: Arrange the carrots, celery, and potatoes around the roast.
Cover and Cook: Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let the roast simmer for 2.5-3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender. Alternatively, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Rest the Roast: Once cooked, remove the roast from the pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful result.
Slice and Serve: Slice the roast against the grain and serve with the cooked vegetables and a ladle of the rich cooking liquid.
Notes
Choose the Right Cut: Arm roast, also known as chuck arm roast, is ideal for slow cooking. Look for a well-marbled piece for maximum flavor.
Don’t Skip the Sear: Searing the roast before slow cooking adds a caramelized crust and enhances the overall flavor.
Low and Slow: Cooking the roast at a low temperature for a long time ensures tender, fall-apart meat.
Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker gravy, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and stir it into the cooking liquid during the last 10 minutes of cooking.