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Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef

Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef That Melts in Your Mouth

A comforting, gluten-free Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef recipe full of flavor for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Roast
  • 2-3 pounds Beef Roast Chuck, round, or brisket is ideal.
  • 1 large Onion, sliced Shallots work well for a milder taste.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Substitute with blended ripe tomatoes if needed.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, chopped Fresh or powdered garlic can be used.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can use vegetable oil as a substitute.
Herbs & Spices
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme, chopped Oregano or Italian seasoning can substitute.
  • 1 teaspoon Rosemary, chopped Dried rosemary is suitable as a substitution.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional; omit if not desired.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Chicken broth can be used as a substitution.
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar Mix red wine vinegar with honey as a substitute.
  • 1/2 cup Cranberry Sauce Homemade or store-bought works well.
  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce Opt for tamari for a gluten-free choice.
  • 4 tablespoons Maple Syrup Brown sugar is a good alternative.
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce For gluten-free, use liquid aminos instead.
  • 1 cup Cranberries Fresh or frozen.
  • 1 pound Carrots, peeled and sliced Use whole baby carrots for convenience.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch Optional; to thicken the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons Water Optional; to mix with cornstarch.

Equipment

  • Oven-safe pan

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (140°C).
  2. In a large, oven-safe pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear the beef roast for 4-5 minutes on each side.
  3. Remove the beef from the pan and sauté sliced onion for about 5 minutes until tender and translucent.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and chopped garlic, then add thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in beef broth, balsamic vinegar, cranberry sauce, soy sauce, maple syrup, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Fold in sliced carrots and cranberries, then return the beef to the pan, ensuring it is surrounded by sauce.
  7. Cover the pan tightly and braise in the oven for 3-4 hours.
  8. After braising, remove the beef and let it rest before shredding or slicing. Adjust sauce thickness if desired.
  9. Serve the beef drizzled with sauce, alongside carrots and cranberries.

Notes

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread for the perfect hearty meal.