HEALTHY MEALS

By: chef ssentongo Geoffrey

Roast Beef and Gravy

This easy roast beef and gravy recipe requires only four simple ingredients and a slow cooker. It’s classic comfort food that begs for mashed potatoes and soft dinner rolls.

A classic Roast Beef with Gravy recipe! Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this mouthwatering dish:

Ingredients:
For the Roast Beef:

• 3-4 pound beef roast (prime rib, top round, or rump roast)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

For the Gravy:

• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp butter

Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Roast (15 minutes)

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Rinse the beef roast and pat it dry with paper towels.
3. Season the roast with salt, black pepper, thyme, rosemary, and garlic.

Step 2: Sear the Roast (10 minutes)

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe skillet over high heat.
2. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Step 3: Roast the Beef (2-3 hours)

1. Transfer the Dutch oven or skillet to the preheated oven.
2. Roast the beef for 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
3. Use a meat thermometer to check for internal temperatures:
   • Rare: 130-135°F (54-57°C)
   • Medium-rare: 135-140°F (57-60°C)
   • Medium: 140-145°F (60-63°C)
   • Medium-well: 145-150°F (63-66°C)
   • Well-done: 150-155°F (66-68°C)

Step 4: Make the Gravy (15 minutes)

1. Remove the roast from the oven and transfer it to a cutting board.
2. Pour the beef broth and red wine (if using) into the Dutch oven or skillet.
3. Bring the liquid to a boil over high heat, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the gravy thickens.
5. Stir in the flour and butter to thicken the gravy further.

Step 5: Slice and Serve (10 minutes)

1. Slice the roast beef against the grain.
2. Serve with the warm gravy spooned over the top.

Tips and Variations:

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the roast reaches a safe internal temperature.
• Let the roast rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to redistribute.
• For a richer gravy, use more beef broth or add a little bit of beef bouillon.
• Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as bay leaves or paprika, to add more flavor to the roast and gravy.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked Roast Beef with Gravy!