Introducing a Flavorful Winter Delight: Spicy Pot Roast with Oranges, Sweet Potatoes, and Calabrian Chile Gremolata

This hearty winter braise is a burst of fresh citrus flavor combined with tender beef chuck, creamy sweet potatoes, and celery root. The whole orange segments and freshly squeezed orange juice and zest give this dish a unique and refreshing twist. The addition of a zesty Calabrian Chile Gremolata adds a spicy kick, making it a satisfyingly hearty meal for the cold winter days.

Ingredients:

• 1 (3- to 4-pound) beef chuck roast
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1 large celery root, peeled and cut into chunks
• 2 oranges, segmented
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
• Zest of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped Calabrian chilies
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear on all sides until browned, about 8 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth. Bring to a simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 2 hours.
5. After 2 hours, add the sweet potatoes, celery root, orange segments, orange juice, and orange zest to the pot. Cover and return to the oven. Cook for an additional 1 to 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
6. In a small bowl, combine the chopped parsley, Calabrian chilies, oregano, and thyme to make the gremolata.
7. Once the pot roast is done, remove it from the oven. Sprinkle the gremolata over the top of the pot roast and serve.

Enjoy this delightful Spicy Pot Roast with Oranges, Sweet Potatoes, and Calabrian Chile Gremolata, a perfect dish to warm you up during the winter months.