Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef is a delightful dish that beautifully combines the rich flavor of roast beef with the tangy sweetness of cranberry and the depth of balsamic vinegar. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy family dinner, this recipe offers a savory and slightly sweet taste that will elevate your mealtime experience. It’s an easy yet impressive dish that makes any gathering feel festive.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Medium
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 320
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 12 grams
- Fat: 15 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Sugar: 6 grams
- Sodium: 420 mg
Why Make This Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef
This Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef is not just any roast; it’s a dish that brings people together around the table. The combination of tart cranberry sauce and rich balsamic vinegar creates a glaze that adds flavor and moisture, ensuring your beef stays tender and juicy. It’s a fantastic centerpiece for holiday meals or family gatherings, making it not just a meal, but a memorable experience.
How to Make Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef
Ingredients:
- 3-4 pounds beef roast
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). This ensures that your roast will cook evenly and develops a delicious crust.
Step 2: Mixing
In a bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, beef broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic. This mixture will create a flavorful glaze that infuses the meat with a sweet and tangy profile.
Step 3: Cooking
Season the beef roast with salt and pepper to taste, then place it in a roasting pan. Pour the prepared cranberry mixture over the roast, ensuring it’s well coated. Cover the pan with foil and roast in the oven for about 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easy to pull apart. For the last 30 minutes of cooking, remove the foil to allow the meat to brown nicely and form a delicious crust.
Step 4: Finishing
After cooking, let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps retain the juices, making each slice tender and flavorful. Serve garnished with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for added aroma and color.
How to Serve Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef
Present this roast as the star of your dinner table. Slice it thinly and serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. The rich glaze pairs wonderfully with hearty sides, making it a well-rounded meal for any season or occasion.
How to Store Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef
To store leftover roast beef, first let it cool to room temperature. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, then refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the sliced roast in freezer-safe bags where it can last for up to 3 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date!
Expert Tips for Perfect Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef
- Choose the Right Cut: For the best flavor and texture, select a well-marbled cut of beef like chuck roast or brisket.
- Marinate Ahead: If you have time, marinate your beef in the cranberry mixture for a few hours or overnight for even more flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To check doneness, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to add herbs like thyme or rosemary directly to the roasting pan for an enhanced flavor.
- Make it Ahead: This dish is perfect for preparing in advance. It tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Delicious Variations
- Using Different Fruits: Swap out cranberry sauce for other fruit preserves like raspberry or even cherry for a different twist.
- Adding Veggies: Toss in root vegetables like carrots and potatoes into the roasting pan for a complete meal.
- Spicy Kick: Include some crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce for a hint of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, other cuts like sirloin or tenderloin can be used, but they may cook faster, so adjust your cooking time accordingly. - Is the cranberry sauce homemade?
You can absolutely use homemade cranberry sauce if you prefer! Just ensure it has a similar consistency for the best results. - Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply follow the same preparation steps and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. - What do I serve with roast beef?
Classic sides include mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavors. - How do I reheat leftovers?
To reheat, place the slices in the oven at a low temperature or microwave gently with a splash of broth to keep them moist.
Conclusion
Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef is a dish that promises to impress with its unique flavors and tender meat. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to delight your guests and create lasting memories. Embrace the comforting aroma and savor the delicious combinations – give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm, inviting experience it brings to your table!
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Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef
- Total Time: 195 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: None specified
Description
A delightful roast beef dish combining the rich flavors of beef with tangy cranberry and balsamic vinegar, perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
- 3–4 pounds beef roast
- 1 cup cranberry sauce
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary or thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
- In a bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, balsamic vinegar, beef broth, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Season the beef roast with salt and pepper, place it in a roasting pan, and pour the cranberry mixture over it. Cover with foil and roast for about 3 hours.
- Remove foil for the last 30 minutes to allow browning.
- Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and garnish with herbs.
Notes
For best flavor, use a well-marbled cut of beef. Consider marinating the beef for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
