Beef “Schweinebraten”-Style German Roast
Ingredients
- 3–4 lb (1.3–1.8 kg) beef roast (chuck, brisket, or rump)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil or neutral oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Gravy
- 2 onions, roughly chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dark beer (optional)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley
- Roasted potatoes or German-style dumplings
Instructions
1. Prepare the Roast
- Remove the beef from the refrigerator 30 minutes before cooking.
- Pat dry and season generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Sear the Beef
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear the roast on all sides until deeply browned, about 3–4 minutes per side.
- Remove and set aside.
3. Build the Flavor Base
- Add onions, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot.
- Cook for 5–7 minutes until lightly browned.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
4. Roast Slowly
- Pour in the beef broth and beer (if using).
- Add thyme and bay leaf.
- Return the roast to the pot.
- Cover and roast in the oven for 3–4 hours, or until the meat is very tender.
5. Make the Gravy
- Remove the roast and keep warm.
- Strain the cooking liquid if desired.
- Simmer the liquid until slightly reduced, or thicken with a cornstarch slurry if preferred.
6. Serve
- Slice or shred the roast.
- Spoon the gravy over the meat.
- Serve with roasted potatoes, red cabbage, or bread dumplings.
Tips
- Chuck roast gives the most tender result.
- Dark beer adds authentic German-style depth of flavor.
- Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
- Leftovers make excellent sandwiches.
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time
3½–4 hours
Total Time
4–4½ hours
Servings
6–8 servings
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 450–600 kcal
- Protein: 40–50 g
- Fat: 22–32 g
- Carbohydrates: 5–10 g
- Fiber: 1–2 g
- Sugar: 2–4 g
Conclusion
Beef “Schweinebraten”-Style German Roast brings the comforting flavors of a traditional German roast dinner to your table. Slow-cooked beef, aromatic vegetables, and rich gravy make this a hearty meal perfect for weekends and special gatherings.
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