Cooking an outside round roast in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a deliciously tender meal with minimal effort. This cut of beef is perfect for slow cooking, as it becomes tender and flavorful when cooked low and slow. In this article, we will explore the steps to cook an outside round roast in a slow cooker, including preparation, cooking time, and tips for achieving the perfect roast.
Understanding Outside Round Roast
Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of an outside round roast. This cut of beef comes from the hindquarters of the cow and is known for its lean flavor and firm texture. Outside round roast is a popular choice for slow cooking because it is relatively inexpensive and can be cooked to tender perfection with minimal effort.
Choosing the Right Cut of Meat
When selecting an outside round roast, look for a cut that is at least 2-3 pounds in weight. This will ensure that the roast is large enough to feed a crowd, but not so large that it becomes difficult to handle. You can also choose a roast with a layer of fat on the outside, as this will help to keep the meat moist during cooking.
Preparing the Outside Round Roast for Slow Cooking
Before cooking the outside round roast in a slow cooker, it’s essential to prepare the meat properly. Here are the steps to follow:
Seasoning the Roast
To add flavor to the roast, season it liberally with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs and spices. You can also rub the roast with a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and thyme for added flavor.
Searing the Roast (Optional)
If you want to add a crispy crust to the roast, you can sear it in a hot skillet before cooking it in the slow cooker. Simply heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the roast for 2-3 minutes on each side.
Cooking the Outside Round Roast in a Slow Cooker
Now that the roast is prepared, it’s time to cook it in the slow cooker. Here are the steps to follow:
Adding Liquid to the Slow Cooker
Add 1-2 cups of liquid to the slow cooker, such as beef broth, wine, or stock. This will help to keep the meat moist during cooking and add flavor to the roast.
Adding Aromatics to the Slow Cooker
Add some aromatics to the slow cooker, such as onions, carrots, and celery. These will add flavor to the roast and create a delicious sauce.
Cooking the Roast
Place the roast in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You can also cook the roast on the “warm” setting, which is usually around 150-200°F (65-90°C).
Tips for Achieving the Perfect Roast
Here are some tips for achieving the perfect roast:
Using a Meat Thermometer
Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the roast is cooked to a safe internal temperature. The recommended internal temperature for beef is at least 145°F (63°C).
Letting the Roast Rest
Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute, making the roast even more tender and flavorful.
Adding Gravy to the Roast
Add some gravy to the roast, such as beef broth or stock, to keep it moist and add flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking an outside round roast in a slow cooker:
Overcooking the Roast
Don’t overcook the roast, as this can make it tough and dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the roast is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Not Letting the Roast Rest
Don’t slice the roast immediately after cooking. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Conclusion
Cooking an outside round roast in a slow cooker is a great way to prepare a deliciously tender meal with minimal effort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can achieve a perfectly cooked roast that is sure to impress your family and friends. Remember to season the roast liberally, sear it if desired, and cook it low and slow for the best results. Happy cooking!
| Cooking Method | Cooking Time | Internal Temperature |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 8-10 hours | 145°F (63°C) |
| High | 4-6 hours | 145°F (63°C) |
| Warm | 10-12 hours | 145°F (63°C) |
Note: The cooking times and internal temperatures listed in the table are for a 2-3 pound outside round roast. Adjust the cooking time and internal temperature as needed for larger or smaller roasts.
What is the ideal size of the round roast for a slow cooker?
The ideal size of the round roast for a slow cooker depends on the size of your slow cooker. A good rule of thumb is to choose a roast that is at least 2-3 pounds, but not so large that it doesn’t fit in the slow cooker. A roast that is too small may cook too quickly, resulting in overcooking, while a roast that is too large may not cook evenly.
For a standard-sized slow cooker, a 2-3 pound round roast is a good size. This size roast will cook slowly and evenly, resulting in a tender and delicious meal. If you have a larger slow cooker, you can use a larger roast, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
How do I season the round roast before cooking it in the slow cooker?
Seasoning the round roast before cooking it in the slow cooker is an important step to bring out the flavor of the meat. You can use a variety of seasonings, such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also use fresh herbs, such as thyme and rosemary, to add more flavor to the roast.
To season the roast, simply rub the seasonings all over the meat, making sure to coat it evenly. You can also let the roast sit for a few minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat. This will help to bring out the flavor of the roast and result in a more tender and delicious meal.
How long does it take to cook a round roast in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for a round roast in a slow cooker will depend on the size of the roast and the temperature of the slow cooker. Generally, a 2-3 pound round roast will take 8-10 hours to cook on low heat, while a larger roast may take 10-12 hours.
It’s also important to check the roast periodically to ensure that it is cooked to your liking. You can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the roast. The recommended internal temperature for a round roast is 145°F for medium-rare, 160°F for medium, and 170°F for well-done.
Can I cook a round roast in a slow cooker on high heat?
While it is possible to cook a round roast in a slow cooker on high heat, it’s not recommended. Cooking the roast on high heat can result in overcooking, especially if the roast is smaller. High heat can also cause the roast to cook unevenly, resulting in some parts being overcooked while others are undercooked.
Cooking the roast on low heat, on the other hand, allows for slow and even cooking, resulting in a tender and delicious meal. Low heat also helps to break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
How do I keep the round roast moist while cooking it in the slow cooker?
Keeping the round roast moist while cooking it in the slow cooker is important to result in a tender and delicious meal. One way to keep the roast moist is to add some liquid to the slow cooker, such as beef broth or stock. You can also add some fat, such as butter or oil, to the slow cooker to help keep the roast moist.
Another way to keep the roast moist is to cook it on low heat, as mentioned earlier. Low heat helps to break down the connective tissues in the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. You can also cover the slow cooker with a lid to help retain the moisture and heat.
Can I cook vegetables with the round roast in the slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook vegetables with the round roast in the slow cooker. In fact, cooking vegetables with the roast is a great way to add more flavor and nutrients to the meal. Some popular vegetables to cook with the round roast include carrots, potatoes, and onions.
To cook vegetables with the round roast, simply add them to the slow cooker with the roast. You can add them at the beginning of the cooking time, or you can add them later in the cooking time, depending on the type of vegetable and the desired level of doneness.
How do I slice the round roast after it’s cooked in the slow cooker?
Slicing the round roast after it’s cooked in the slow cooker is an important step to result in a tender and delicious meal. To slice the roast, simply let it rest for a few minutes after cooking. This will help the juices to redistribute, making the roast more tender and flavorful.
To slice the roast, use a sharp knife and slice it against the grain. Slicing against the grain helps to break down the fibers in the meat, making it more tender and easier to chew. You can also use a meat slicer or a carving knife to slice the roast, depending on your preference.