I often plan my meals basted on the local weather forecast and I was so happy when I learned the high today would be 71 degrees and the low 61. I know some of you might not think that is at all cold – but this is Florida after all…I’ll take what I can get! 😉 Anything less than 80 degrees feels like a treat here and what better way to celebrate this cooler weather than to make something warm and comforting? I love its simplicity and all the great flavor that it creates; this one is hands-down my favorite, especially when we serve it over a big pile of roasted garlic mashed potatoes. Thanks for reading, enjoy!

Pot Roast with Vegetables – adapted from Tyler Florence

• 1 (3 to 4 pound) piece beef chuck roast, trimmed of excess fat
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 – 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 yellow onions, halved
• 2 garlic cloves, chopped
• 4 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 12 – 16 ounces button mushrooms, stems removed and sliced in half
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves

Directions –

Season all sides of the beef with a fair amount of salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or other heavy pot that has a tight cover; heat 2 tablespoons of the oil over moderately high heat. Brown the meat on all sides, taking the time to get a nice crust on the outside. Pour in the tomatoes and the water. Scatter the vegetables and herbs around the pot roast, season with salt and pepper; and drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of oil. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Braise for about 3 hours, basting every 30 minutes with the pan juices, until the beef is fork tender.

Slice the pot roast and arrange on platter surrounded by the vegetables. Serve with the pot juices.