Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef with salt and pepper, then sear it for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they are softened and fragrant.
- Pour in the red wine (if using), and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Add the beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well before putting the beef back into the pot.
- Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the beef to cook for 3-4 hours, or until it’s fork-tender and easily falls apart.
Cooking the Gnocchi
- About 15 minutes before serving, bring a separate pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface, typically about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Finish and Serve
- Once the pot roast is done, shred the beef using two forks and return it to the pot.
- Add the cooked gnocchi and gently toss to coat them in the sauce.
- Stir in butter for richness and adjust seasoning as necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
Use a pressure cooker to speed things up: You can cut the cooking time significantly by using a pressure cooker for the pot roast, making it tender in about 1-1.5 hours. For a healthier version, substitute the beef broth for a low-sodium variety and add in more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth to retain moisture.
