Sweet and Sour Beef Roast

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect Balance of Flavors: Sweet, sour, and savory come together in one delicious dish.

  • Tender and Juicy Beef: Slow roasting ensures melt-in-your-mouth texture.

  • Simple to Prepare: Easy steps with ingredients you likely have on hand.

  • Versatile Side Pairings: Goes well with rice, potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 3 to 4 pounds beef roast (chuck or round)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 onion, sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup pineapple juice

  • 1/2 cup ketchup

  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce

  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger

  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

  2. Prepare Roast: Season beef roast generously with salt and pepper.

  3. Sear Roast: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

  4. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pan, add onions and garlic and sauté until softened.

  5. Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes.

  6. Combine and Roast: Return roast to the pan and pour sauce over it. Cover and roast in the oven for 3-4 hours, basting occasionally, until beef is tender.

  7. Serve: Slice roast and spoon sauce over the top.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6-8

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes

Variations

  • Add Vegetables: Roast carrots, bell peppers, or pineapple chunks alongside the beef.

  • Make It Spicier: Increase red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers.

  • Slow Cooker Option: Cook on low for 6-8 hours for hands-off preparation.

  • Gluten-Free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

  • Freezing: Freeze roast and sauce separately for up to 3 months.

  • Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding extra sauce if needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Chuck roast or brisket work well for slow roasting.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, make the sauce in advance and store in the refrigerator.

How do I know when the roast is done?

Beef should be fork-tender and easily shredded or sliced.

Can I skip searing?

Searing adds flavor but can be skipped if short on time.

What sides pair well with this roast?

Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or steamed vegetables.

Can I use fresh pineapple?

Yes, add fresh pineapple chunks for extra sweetness.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, adjust spice level to suit children.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer sauce after roasting or add a cornstarch slurry.

Can I use a pressure cooker?

Yes, cook on high pressure for about 60 minutes.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool completely and refrigerate in airtight containers.

Conclusion

Sweet and Sour Beef Roast is a delightful combination of tender meat and flavorful sauce that makes for a comforting and satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and full of balanced tastes, it’s a perfect dish to enjoy any day of the week or special gatherings.

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Sweet and Sour Beef Roast

Sweet and Sour Beef Roast

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Sweet and Sour Beef Roast is a deliciously balanced dish that combines tender, slow-roasted beef with a tangy and slightly sweet sauce. This flavorful roast is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, delivering a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and acidic notes.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3-4 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Oven Roasting
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients


  1. 3 to 4 pounds beef roast (chuck or round)

    Salt and pepper to taste

    2 tablespoons olive oil

    1 onion, sliced

    3 cloves garlic, minced

    1 cup pineapple juice

    1/2 cup ketchup

    1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

    1/4 cup brown sugar

    1 tablespoon soy sauce

    1 teaspoon ground ginger

    1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

  1. Prepare Roast: Season beef roast generously with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear Roast: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear roast on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  3. Sauté Onions and Garlic: In the same pan, add onions and garlic and sauté until softened.
  4. Make Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
  5. Combine and Roast: Return roast to the pan and pour sauce over it. Cover and roast in the oven for 3-4 hours, basting occasionally, until beef is tender.
  6. Serve: Slice roast and spoon sauce over the top.

Notes

  • Add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or pineapple chunks to roast alongside the beef.
  • Increase red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers for more spice.
  • Use slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours as a hands-off option.
  • Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce to keep recipe gluten-free.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 oz
  • Calories: 350
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg
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