Olivia Carter
Do you love a tender and juicy roast? If so, cooking an inside round roast in a slow cooker is a great option. This method allows you to slow cook the roast to perfection, resulting in a delicious and flavourful dish that will melt in your mouth.
Inside round roast is a lean and affordable cut of beef that is perfect for slow cooking. The slow cooker provides a gentle and even heat, which helps to break down the tough connective tissues and tenderize the meat. The result is a roast that is incredibly tender and moist.
But how long does it take to cook an inside round roast in a slow cooker? The cooking time can vary depending on the size of the roast and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, for a 3 to 4 pound roast, you can expect it to take around 8 to 10 hours on low heat. If you prefer a well-done roast, you may need to cook it for an additional 1 to 2 hours.
It’s important to note that cooking times may vary for different slow cookers. Some slow cookers tend to cook faster or slower than others, so it’s always a good idea to check the internal temperature of the roast for doneness. The internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium. To measure the temperature, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast, avoiding any bones.
Additionally, it’s recommended to sear the roast before placing it in the slow cooker. Searing will help to lock in the juices and enhance the flavor of the roast. Simply heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over high heat, and then sear the roast on all sides until browned. Once seared, transfer the roast to the slow cooker and add any desired seasonings or vegetables.
In conclusion, cooking an inside round roast in a slow cooker is a simple and hassle-free way to enjoy a delicious and tender roast. With the right cooking time and temperature, you can create a mouthwatering dish that will impress your family and friends. So, why not give it a try and elevate your roast cooking game?
Preparation and Seasoning
Before cooking your inside round roast in a slow cooker, it’s important to properly prepare and season the meat. This will help to enhance the flavors and ensure a tender and juicy roast.
1. Trimming the Roast
Start by trimming any excess fat from the roast. While some fat can add flavor, too much fat may result in a greasy texture. Use a sharp knife to carefully trim away any visible fat.
2. Seasoning the Roast
Next, season the roast generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired herbs and spices. This will help to infuse the meat with flavor as it cooks. Popular seasonings for a roast include garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, and paprika.
You can create a dry rub by combining these seasonings or simply sprinkle them directly onto the meat. Use your hands to gently massage the seasonings into the roast, ensuring that it is evenly coated on all sides.
3. Allowing the Roast to Marinate (Optional)
If you have the time, you can allow the seasoned roast to marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This will further enhance the flavors and tenderize the meat. Place the roast in a covered container or seal it in a plastic bag before refrigerating.
4. Searing the Roast (Optional)
Searing the roast before slow cooking can help to develop a rich crust and enhance the overall flavor. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Carefully sear the roast on all sides until browned.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| – Inside round roast | 1. Trim any excess fat from the roast. 2. Generously season the roast with salt, pepper, and desired herbs and spices. 3. Optional: Allow the seasoned roast to marinate in the refrigerator. 4. Optional: Sear the roast on all sides in a hot skillet. 5. Place the roast in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the desired level of doneness is reached. |
| – Salt | |
| – Pepper | |
| – Herbs and spices (e.g. garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, rosemary, paprika) |
Once the roast has been prepared and seasoned, it is ready to be cooked in the slow cooker. Simply place the roast in the slow cooker, cover it with the lid, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the desired level of doneness is reached.
Cooking Time and Temperature
The cooking time and temperature are important factors to consider when cooking an inside round roast in a slow cooker. The slow cooker uses low heat for an extended period of time to break down the tough connective tissues in the meat and make it tender and flavorful.
The recommended cooking time for an inside round roast in a slow cooker is approximately 8-10 hours on low heat or 4-6 hours on high heat. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the roast. It is important to check the internal temperature of the roast using a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare or 160°F (71°C) for medium.
When cooking a roast in a slow cooker, it is best to sear the meat first in a hot skillet to enhance the flavor and texture. This step is optional but highly recommended. After searing, place the roast in the slow cooker and add any desired seasonings or marinades. Cook the roast on the desired heat setting according to the recommended cooking time.
It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the specific slow cooker model and its performance. It is always recommended to refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific cooking times and temperatures for your slow cooker.
Serving and Storage
Once your inside round roast is cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are some tips for serving and storing your delicious roast:
Serving:
1. Remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to redistribute and result in a more flavorful and tender roast.
2. Slice the roast thinly against the grain. This will help to ensure a tender and easy-to-chew texture.
3. Serve the sliced roast with your favorite side dishes such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
4. Drizzle some of the cooking juices over the sliced roast for extra flavor and moisture.
Storage:
1. If you have any leftovers, allow the roast to cool completely before storing it.
2. Place the cooled roast in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil.
3. Refrigerate the roast for up to 3-4 days.
4. To reheat the roast, place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
5. You can also use the leftover roast in sandwiches, salads, or added to soups and stews for additional meals.
Remember, proper serving and storage techniques will help you make the most of your slow-cooked inside round roast!
Recommended Recipes
Here are a few delicious recipes that you can try with your inside round roast in a slow cooker:
1. Slow Cooker Beef Pot Roast
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pound inside round roast
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Place the onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a separate pan, sear the inside round roast on all sides until browned.
- Transfer the roast to the slow cooker and pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over it.
- Sprinkle the dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the roast.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or until the roast is tender.
- Once cooked, remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Serve the pot roast with the cooked vegetables and enjoy!
2. Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches
Ingredients:
- 2-3 pound inside round roast
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 French rolls, sliced
- 6 slices of provolone cheese
Instructions:
- Place the onion and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker.
- In a separate pan, sear the inside round roast on all sides until browned.
- Transfer the roast to the slow cooker and pour the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce over it.
- Sprinkle the dried thyme, salt, and pepper over the roast.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or until the roast is tender.
- Remove the roast from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Strain the cooking liquid from the slow cooker and serve it as a dipping sauce.
- Assemble the French dip sandwiches by placing the shredded beef on the rolls and topping it with a slice of provolone cheese.
- Toast the sandwiches in a preheated oven until the cheese melts.
- Serve the sandwiches with the dipping sauce and enjoy!
| Recipe | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbohydrates | Fiber | Sodium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Slow Cooker Beef Pot Roast | 350 | 30g | 15g | 25g | 4g | 800mg |
| Slow Cooker French Dip Sandwiches | 400 | 35g | 18g | 30g | 3g | 1000mg |
Questions and answers
What is an inside round roast?
An inside round roast is a cut of beef that comes from the hindquarters of the cow. It is known for its lean and tender meat.
Can I cook an inside round roast in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook an inside round roast in a slow cooker. It is a great way to cook the roast as it allows the meat to cook slowly and become tender.
How long do I cook an inside round roast in a slow cooker?
The cooking time for an inside round roast in a slow cooker depends on the size of the roast and the desired level of doneness. On average, it takes about 8-10 hours on low heat or 4-6 hours on high heat.
Can I add vegetables to the slow cooker with the inside round roast?
Yes, you can add vegetables to the slow cooker with the inside round roast. This will not only add flavor to the meat but also create a complete meal in one pot.
