CHUCK ROAST: THE HEART OF COMFORT COOKING FROM HERD 77

Welcome to the Herd 77 blog, where we proudly present the finest cuts of beef from our family-run farm in southern Iowa. At Herd 77, we specialize in prime quality beef that is pasture-raised, grass-fed, and hormone-free, ensuring that every bite is a testament to our commitment to quality and sustainability. Today, we're diving into the world of chuck roast, a versatile and flavorful cut that is perfect for hearty, comforting meals. Join us as we explore the details of this exceptional cut and share some delicious recipes to bring it to your table.

What is Chuck Roast?

Chuck roast, also known as pot roast, is a cut of beef that comes from the shoulder area of the cow. This section of the cow is known for its rich marbling and robust flavor, making it ideal for slow-cooked dishes. The chuck roast is typically a larger, tougher cut of meat that transforms into a tender and succulent delight when cooked properly.

Location on the Cow

The chuck roast is located in the shoulder section, specifically within the chuck primal cut. This area is heavily exercised, which contributes to the meat's rich flavor and marbling. The connective tissue in this cut breaks down beautifully during slow cooking, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is perfect for comforting, hearty meals.

Flavor Profile

Chuck roast is known for its deep, beefy flavor and rich marbling. The fat content in the chuck roast ensures that the meat stays moist and flavorful during long cooking processes. When cooked low and slow, the connective tissues and fat melt into the meat, creating an incredibly tender and flavorful dish that is perfect for family meals and gatherings.

Popular Cooking Methods

Given its tougher nature, chuck roast is best suited for slow-cooking methods that allow the meat to become tender and juicy. Here are some popular ways to cook chuck roast:

Braising: Slow cooking the roast in a small amount of liquid (such as broth or wine) in a covered pot. This method helps to break down the connective tissues and infuse the meat with rich flavors.

Slow Cooking: Using a slow cooker or crockpot allows for a set-it-and-forget-it approach, making it easy to prepare a delicious meal with minimal effort.

Roasting: Cooking the chuck roast in the oven at a low temperature for an extended period. This method is ideal for creating a crispy exterior while maintaining a juicy interior.

Popular Chuck Roast Recipes

To showcase the versatility of chuck roast, here are a few recipes that highlight its deep flavor and tender texture:

1. Classic Pot Roast

Ingredients:

• 1 Herd 77 chuck roast (about 3-4 pounds)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional)
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary

Instructions:

• Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
• Season the chuck roast generously with salt and pepper.
• In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the roast and set aside.
• Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
• Add the carrots and potatoes, stirring to combine.
• Return the roast to the pot and add the beef broth and red wine. Add the thyme and rosemary.
• Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
• Remove the pot from the oven and let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with the vegetables and sauce.

2. Slow Cooker Chuck Roast

Ingredients:

• 1 Herd 77 chuck roast (about 3-4 pounds)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 packet onion soup mix
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

Instructions:

• Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper.
• Place the roast in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the onion soup mix over the roast.
• Pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over the roast.
• Add the carrots and potatoes around the roast.
• Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
• Serve the roast with the cooked vegetables and sauce.

3. Oven-Braised Chuck Roast with Vegetables

Ingredients:

• 1 Herd 77 chuck roast (about 3-4 pounds)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 4 celery stalks, cut into chunks
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper.

In a large oven-safe pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the roast and set aside.

Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.

Add the carrots and celery, stirring to combine.

Return the roast to the pot and add the beef broth, tomato sauce, thyme, and rosemary.

Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Cook for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Remove the pot from the oven and let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with the vegetables and sauce.

Savor the Best with Herd 77 Chuck Roast

At Herd 77, we are dedicated to providing you with prime quality beef that embodies our commitment to ethical and sustainable farming practices. Our chuck roast is a perfect example of how our pasture-raised, grass-fed, hormone-free beef can elevate your meals, bringing comfort and flavor to your table. Visit our farm or order online to experience the best of Herd 77. Happy cooking!

Ready to have farm fresh, prime quality beef delivered right to your door? Click here to shop for prime-quality beef from our family farm in Southern Iowa. Shop for samplers here. Shop sale items here.

Why choose Herd 77? Read about our farm here. Learn about our processes here.