Are you looking for a delicious and tender roast that’s easy to prepare and cooks to perfection in a slow cooker? Look no further than a cross rib roast. This cut of beef is perfect for slow cooking, as it becomes tender and flavorful with minimal effort. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook a cross rib roast in a slow cooker, including tips and tricks for achieving the perfect result.
What is a Cross Rib Roast?
A cross rib roast is a cut of beef that comes from the rib section of the cow. It’s a boneless cut that’s taken from the 6th to the 8th ribs, and it’s known for its rich flavor and tender texture. The cross rib roast is a great choice for slow cooking, as it’s relatively inexpensive and becomes incredibly tender with long, slow cooking.
Choosing the Right Cross Rib Roast
When selecting a cross rib roast, look for one that’s around 2-3 pounds in weight. This size will give you enough meat for 4-6 servings, and it will cook evenly in a slow cooker. You can choose a roast with or without a fat cap, depending on your preference. A fat cap will add extra flavor to the roast, but it will also make it slightly higher in calories.
Preparing the Cross Rib Roast for Slow Cooking
Before cooking the cross rib roast, you’ll need to prepare it by seasoning and searing it. This step is important, as it will help to lock in the flavors and create a crispy crust on the outside of the roast.
Seasoning the Cross Rib Roast
To season the cross rib roast, you’ll need a mixture of salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. You can use a store-bought seasoning blend, or you can create your own using ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
Basic Seasoning Blend
Here’s a basic seasoning blend that you can use for your cross rib roast:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Salt | 2 tablespoons |
| Pepper | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Onion powder | 1 tablespoon |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
Searing the Cross Rib Roast
To sear the cross rib roast, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it’s browned and crispy. This step will help to create a flavorful crust on the outside of the roast.
Cooking the Cross Rib Roast in a Slow Cooker
Once the cross rib roast is seasoned and seared, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. Here’s a basic recipe that you can follow:
Basic Slow Cooker Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cross rib roast (2-3 pounds)
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of beef broth
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Place the sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Place the cross rib roast on top of the onion.
- Sprinkle the minced garlic over the roast.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, tomato paste, and dried thyme.
- Pour the broth mixture over the roast.
- Season with salt and pepper, to taste.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the roast is tender and falls apart easily.
Tips for Cooking the Cross Rib Roast
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when cooking the cross rib roast in a slow cooker:
- Make sure to cook the roast on low, as high heat can cause it to become tough and dry.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the roast. It should reach 160°F for medium-rare, 170°F for medium, and 180°F for well-done.
- Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This will help the juices to redistribute, making the roast even more tender and flavorful.
Serving the Cross Rib Roast
Once the cross rib roast is cooked, it’s time to serve it. Here are a few ideas for serving:
Slicing the Roast
To slice the roast, use a sharp knife and slice it against the grain. This will help the meat to stay tender and juicy.
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few serving suggestions for the cross rib roast:
- Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables.
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or carrots.
- Serve with a salad, such as a simple green salad or a more composed salad with mixed greens and vegetables.
Conclusion
Cooking a cross rib roast in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a delicious and tender meal with minimal effort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a flavorful and juicy roast that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. Remember to season and sear the roast before cooking it, and to cook it on low for 8-10 hours. With these tips and a little patience, you’ll be enjoying a perfectly cooked cross rib roast in no time.
What is a Cross Rib Roast and Why is it Suitable for Slow Cooking?
A Cross Rib Roast is a type of beef cut that comes from the rib section of the cow. It is a tougher cut of meat, which makes it perfect for slow cooking. The slow cooking process breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, making it tender and flavorful. This cut of meat is also relatively affordable compared to other cuts, making it a great option for those on a budget.
When cooked low and slow, the Cross Rib Roast becomes incredibly tender and falls apart easily. The slow cooker is an ideal cooking vessel for this cut of meat, as it allows for even heat distribution and prevents the meat from drying out. With a slow cooker, you can cook the Cross Rib Roast to perfection without having to constantly monitor it.
What are the Essential Ingredients and Equipment Needed for Cooking a Cross Rib Roast in a Slow Cooker?
To cook a Cross Rib Roast in a slow cooker, you will need a few essential ingredients and equipment. The ingredients include a Cross Rib Roast, some oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of aromatics such as onions, carrots, and celery. You will also need a slow cooker, a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, and some kitchen twine for tying the roast.
In addition to these ingredients and equipment, you may also want to have some beef broth or stock on hand to add moisture to the slow cooker. You can also add some potatoes, carrots, and other root vegetables to the slow cooker to cook alongside the roast. Make sure to choose a slow cooker that is large enough to hold the roast and any additional ingredients you plan to add.
How Do I Prepare the Cross Rib Roast for Slow Cooking?
To prepare the Cross Rib Roast for slow cooking, start by seasoning the roast with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. You can also rub the roast with some oil to help it brown in the slow cooker. Next, heat a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over high heat and sear the roast on all sides until it is browned. This step is important, as it helps to create a flavorful crust on the roast.
Once the roast is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Add some aromatics such as onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until they are softened. Then, add the roast to the slow cooker and add the aromatics and any other ingredients you are using. Make sure to tie the roast with kitchen twine to help it hold its shape during cooking.
What is the Best Cooking Time and Temperature for a Cross Rib Roast in a Slow Cooker?
The best cooking time and temperature for a Cross Rib Roast in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the roast and your personal preference for doneness. As a general rule, cook the roast on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the roast. The recommended internal temperature for medium-rare is 130-135°F (54-57°C), while medium is 140-145°F (60-63°C).
It’s also important to note that the roast will continue to cook a bit after it is removed from the slow cooker, so make sure to check the temperature regularly to avoid overcooking. If you prefer your roast to be more tender, you can cook it for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour. Just make sure to check the temperature regularly to avoid overcooking.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Slow Cooker with the Cross Rib Roast?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the slow cooker with the Cross Rib Roast. In fact, adding other ingredients can help to enhance the flavor of the roast and create a delicious, one-pot meal. Some popular ingredients to add to the slow cooker with a Cross Rib Roast include potatoes, carrots, onions, and other root vegetables. You can also add some beef broth or stock to the slow cooker to add moisture and flavor to the roast.
When adding other ingredients to the slow cooker, make sure to choose ingredients that cook at a similar rate to the roast. For example, potatoes and carrots take about the same amount of time to cook as a Cross Rib Roast, while green beans and other leafy vegetables cook more quickly. You can also add some tomato paste or canned diced tomatoes to the slow cooker to add a burst of flavor to the roast.
How Do I Serve a Slow-Cooked Cross Rib Roast?
A slow-cooked Cross Rib Roast can be served in a variety of ways. One popular way to serve the roast is to slice it thinly against the grain and serve it with the juices from the slow cooker. You can also serve the roast with some of the vegetables that were cooked alongside it, such as potatoes and carrots. Another option is to shred the roast and serve it on a bun, topped with your favorite toppings.
When serving the roast, make sure to let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing or shredding. This allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to relax, making it easier to slice or shred. You can also serve the roast with some additional sauces or gravies, such as a horseradish sauce or a beef gravy.
Can I Cook a Cross Rib Roast in a Slow Cooker Ahead of Time and Reheat it Later?
Yes, you can cook a Cross Rib Roast in a slow cooker ahead of time and reheat it later. In fact, cooking the roast ahead of time can help to make it even more tender and flavorful. To cook the roast ahead of time, simply cook it in the slow cooker as directed, then let it cool to room temperature. Once the roast has cooled, you can refrigerate it or freeze it for later use.
To reheat the roast, simply place it in the slow cooker and add some beef broth or stock to cover the bottom of the slow cooker. Cook the roast on low for 2-3 hours, or until it is heated through. You can also reheat the roast in the oven, wrapped in foil and heated at 300°F (150°C) for 20-30 minutes. Just make sure to check the temperature of the roast regularly to avoid overcooking.