Balsamic Cranberry Roast: 3-Hour Comfort

Low braised balsamic cranberry has a way of making even the busiest weeknight feel like a special occasion. I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma of the beef, sweet cranberries, and tangy balsamic vinegar filling my kitchen was pure magic. It’s my go-to low braised balsamic cranberry recipe when I want something comforting yet elegant. This isn’t just any beef roast; it’s a journey of slow-cooked flavor, resulting in unbelievably tender meat and a rich, glossy sauce that’s reminiscent of a truly delicious homemade balsamic cranberry sauce. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry

This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! It’s not just another beef dish; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will impress everyone.

• Incredible Flavor: The perfect balance of savory beef, tangy balsamic, and sweet cranberries creates a truly unique taste experience.
• Effortless Prep: With only 20 minutes of active prep time, you can get this meal started and let the oven do the work.
• Budget-Friendly Comfort: Using an economical beef roast cut, this dish offers a gourmet feel without a hefty price tag.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will love the tender beef and delicious sauce, making it a perfect family meal.
• Healthier Option: This dish focuses on lean beef and natural flavors, fitting well into a balanced diet.
• Versatile Sauce: The rich sauce from this slow cooked balsamic cranberry sauce is amazing over the beef and could even be a base for other dishes.
• Make-Ahead Magic: This slow cooked balsamic cranberry sauce often tastes even better the next day, perfect for meal prepping.

Ingredients for Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry

Gathering these ingredients is the first step to creating a truly memorable meal. This blend makes for a fantastic balsamic cranberry compote low in carbs but high in flavor.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for searing the roast to lock in juices.
• 1 (2-3 pound) beef roast – chuck, round, or brisket work beautifully for this slow braise.
• 1 large onion, sliced – adds a sweet foundation to the braising liquid.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – deepens the savory flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped – essential for that aromatic depth.
• 1 teaspoon thyme, chopped – its earthy notes complement the beef perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped – adds a fragrant, slightly piney aroma.
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – for a subtle hint of warmth.
• 2 cups beef broth – the base of our rich braising liquid.
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar – provides that signature tangy sweetness.
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (optional) – adds a touch of sweetness and color.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce – for umami and depth.
• 4 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar – balances the tartness of the balsamic and cranberries.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – adds another layer of savory complexity.
• 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen) – for bright, tart bursts throughout the dish.
• 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced (or baby carrots) – adds sweetness and color, softening beautifully during the braise.
• For Thickening Mixture (Optional):
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water – combined to create a slurry for a glossy, thickened sauce.

How to Make Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry

Get ready to create an incredibly tender and flavorful beef dish! This easy balsamic cranberry braise comes together with simple steps, turning a humble cut of beef into something spectacular. The aroma alone will make your kitchen feel incredibly cozy.

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to a low 275°F (140°C). This gentle heat is key for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-safe pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Carefully place your 2-3 pound beef roast in the hot oil and sear it on all sides until a beautiful brown crust forms. This step is crucial for locking in juices and adding depth of flavor. Remove the roast and set it aside.
3. Step 3: In the same pan, add the 1 large onion, sliced, and sauté until it softens and becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 4 cloves garlic, chopped, 1 teaspoon thyme, chopped, 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped, and the optional 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Cook for about 1 minute until everything is wonderfully fragrant.
5. Step 5: Deglaze the pan by pouring in the 2 cups beef broth, 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar, the optional 1/2 cup cranberry sauce, 2 tablespoons soy sauce, 4 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar, and 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Step 6: Return the seared beef roast to the pot. Nestle the 1 cup cranberries and the 1 pound carrots around the meat. The cranberries will burst and create little pockets of tartness, while the carrots soften beautifully.
7. Step 7: Cover the pot tightly with a lid or heavy-duty foil. Transfer it to your preheated oven. Let it braise for 3 to 4 hours. The goal is for the beef to become so tender that it easily shreds with a fork. This slow cooking process is what makes the low braised balsamic cranberry dish so special.

8. Step 8: Once the beef is perfectly tender, carefully remove it from the pot. You can shred it with two forks or slice it into thick pieces, depending on your preference.
9. Step 9: If you want a thicker sauce, skim any excess fat from the cooking liquid. In a small bowl, whisk together the 2 tablespoons cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water to make a slurry. Pour this into the pot with the braising liquid and simmer on the stove over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to a glossy consistency.
10. Step 10: Serve the tender beef with the softened carrots, plump cranberries, and the rich, luscious sauce. This truly is an easy balsamic cranberry braise that delivers maximum flavor!

Pro Tips for the Best Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make this dish absolutely perfect every time. Following these tips will elevate your low braised balsamic cranberry experience from good to unforgettable.

• Always use a well-marbled cut of beef, like chuck roast, for the most tender and flavorful result. The fat renders down during the slow braise, creating incredible richness.
• Don’t skip the initial searing of the beef! That caramelization builds a deep flavor base that is essential for the final dish.
• Taste and adjust the braising liquid before cooking. You can tweak the sweetness with more maple syrup or tartness with a splash more balsamic to suit your preference.

What’s the secret to perfect Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry?

The secret lies in the low and slow cooking method. Properly searing the beef and then allowing it to braise gently for hours breaks down the connective tissues, ensuring it becomes incredibly tender. Learning how to braise balsamic cranberries this way guarantees a melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can I make Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is fantastic for meal prep. You can prepare the entire braise a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully overnight. Just cool, refrigerate, and gently reheat on the stovetop or in the oven.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry?

A common pitfall is not searing the beef properly, which leads to a less flavorful dish. Also, resist the urge to rush the cooking time; true tenderness comes from patience. Over-stirring the sauce after thickening can also make it gummy.

Best Ways to Serve Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry

This rich and flavorful low braised balsamic cranberry dish is incredibly versatile. I love serving it as a hearty main course, especially during cooler months. It pairs beautifully with simple sides that let the beef shine. Imagine a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice soaking up that delicious, glossy sauce.

For a complete meal, consider adding roasted root vegetables like parsnips or Brussels sprouts. If you’re looking for a lighter option, a simple green salad with a vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. For those who enjoy pork, this flavor profile is also fantastic with cranberry balsamic braised pork, offering a similar comforting yet sophisticated meal.

Nutrition Facts for Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry

This low braised balsamic cranberry dish is hearty and satisfying. The exact nutritional breakdown can vary depending on the cut of beef and the specific amounts of sweeteners and sauces used, but here’s a general estimate per serving.

• Calories: Approximately 450-550
• Fat: Varies based on beef cut and added oil
• Saturated Fat: Varies based on beef cut
• Protein: Varies based on beef portion
• Carbohydrates: Varies based on carrots, cranberries, and sweetener
• Fiber: Varies based on carrots and cranberries
• Sugar: Varies based on maple syrup and cranberry sauce amount
• Sodium: Varies based on soy sauce and broth

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.

How to Store and Reheat Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry

One of the best things about this low braised balsamic cranberry dish is how well it stores. After cooking, let the beef and sauce cool completely before transferring them to airtight containers. This is crucial for food safety and maintaining quality. You can comfortably store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it even more delicious the next day!

For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. Divide cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your low and slow balsamic cranberries again, the best way to reheat is gently. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Then, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or reheat in a covered oven-safe dish at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. This ensures the beef remains tender and the sauce stays luscious.

Frequently Asked Questions About Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can! While chuck roast is ideal for its tenderness, other cuts like brisket or beef round can also work. Just be mindful that cooking times might vary slightly. The key is the low and slow braising to ensure tenderness, making it a great way to prepare less expensive cuts.

What can I serve with Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry?

This dish is wonderfully versatile! Creamy mashed potatoes or polenta are fantastic for soaking up the rich sauce. Fluffy rice, crusty bread, or even roasted root vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, and sweet potatoes make excellent companions. A simple side salad can offer a refreshing contrast.

How do I make a balsamic cranberry reduction recipe from this braising liquid?

To create a concentrated balsamic cranberry reduction recipe from the braising liquid, simply skim off any excess fat from the surface. Then, simmer the liquid in a saucepan over medium-low heat, uncovered, until it reduces and thickens to your desired consistency. This intensifies the flavors beautifully!

Is this recipe suitable for a sugar-free diet?

You can adapt this recipe for a sugar-free balsamic cranberry approach. Omit the maple syrup or brown sugar and use a sugar-free sweetener alternative like erythritol or stevia, adjusting to taste. Be mindful that most cranberry sauces contain added sugar, so opt for a sugar-free version or use fresh cranberries only.

Variations of Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry You Can Try

While this classic low braised balsamic cranberry recipe is fantastic as is, don’t be afraid to get creative! I love experimenting with different flavor profiles and cooking methods to keep things exciting. These variations offer delicious twists on the original.

• Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño along with the aromatics. This turns your low and slow balsamic cranberries into a dish with a delightful fiery note.
• Herb Garden Twist: Swap out or supplement the thyme and rosemary with other complementary herbs like sage or marjoram. Fresh sage, in particular, pairs wonderfully with both beef and cranberries for a savory depth.
• Vegan Balsamic Cranberry Braise: For a completely plant-based version, substitute the beef with hearty root vegetables like large chunks of butternut squash, sweet potatoes, and parsnips. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and ensure your cranberry sauce is vegan. This vegan balsamic cranberry braise is surprisingly satisfying and flavorful.
• Slow Cooker Ease: If you prefer a hands-off approach, this recipe adapts beautifully to a slow cooker. Follow the initial searing and sautéing steps on the stovetop, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.

Balsamic Cranberry Roast: 3-Hour Comfort

---

• Author: basmer1517
• Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This Low-Braised Balsamic Cranberry Beef is a tender, flavorful comfort meal perfect for family dinners. Slow-braised to perfection with a savory-sweet blend of balsamic vinegar, cranberry sauce, and aromatic herbs, it offers a delightful balance of rich beef flavor and seasonal freshness. Serve with carrots and a thickened sauce for a heartwarming dish that’s easy to prepare and impressively delicious.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 (2-3 pound) beef roast (such as chuck, round, brisket, etc.)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon rosemary, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup cranberry sauce (optional)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 4 tablespoons maple syrup or brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 pound carrots, peeled and sliced (or baby carrots)
• For Thickening Mixture (Optional):
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

---

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (140°C) to prepare for slow braising.
2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the beef roast on all sides until well-seared, then remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add sliced onions and sauté until they become tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in tomato paste, chopped garlic, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook until fragrant, roughly 1 minute.
5. Pour in beef broth, balsamic vinegar, optional cranberry sauce, soy sauce, maple syrup (or brown sugar), and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine all flavors.
6. Return the seared beef roast to the pot. Add the carrots and cranberries around the meat. Cover the pot tightly with a lid or foil.
7. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 3 to 4 hours, or until the beef is tender enough to shred with a fork. Alternatively, this can be done on the stovetop over low heat or in a slow cooker.
8. Once cooked, carefully remove the beef from the pot and shred or slice it as preferred.
9. If desired, skim any fat from the cooking liquid. Mix the cornstarch with water to create a slurry, then stir it into the pot. Simmer on the stove until the sauce thickens to your liking.
10. Plate the shredded beef with the carrots, cranberries, and rich braising sauce for a comforting, flavorful meal.

Notes

• If you do not have an oven-safe pot, you can cook this on the stovetop over low heat, covered, for 3-4 hours.
• The slow cooker method works well: cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours for similar tenderness.
• Braising at low temperature ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
• Adjust sweetness and tartness by varying the amount of maple syrup and balsamic vinegar.
• Using fresh cranberries adds a fresh tart pop, while canned cranberry sauce gives sweetness and depth.
• The optional cornstarch slurry is key to thickening the sauce for a more luxurious finish.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours 0 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Braising
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: Approximately 450-550 (estimated, will vary based on exact ingredients and portion)
• Sugar: Varies based on maple syrup and cranberry sauce amount
• Sodium: Varies based on soy sauce and broth
• Fat: Varies based on beef cut and added oil
• Saturated Fat: Varies based on beef cut
• Unsaturated Fat: Varies based on beef cut and olive oil
• Trans Fat: Minimal
• Carbohydrates: Varies based on carrots, cranberries, and sweetener
• Fiber: Varies based on carrots and cranberries
• Protein: Varies based on beef portion
• Cholesterol: Varies based on beef cut

Keywords: Low Braised Balsamic Cranberry Beef, low braised balsamic cranberry, slow cooked balsamic cranberry sauce, easy balsamic cranberry braise, balsamic cranberry compote low, how to braise balsamic cranberries, what is low braised balsamic cranberry, why braise balsamic cranberries, balsamic cranberry reduction recipe, low and slow balsamic cranberries, homemade balsamic cranberry sauce, fruity balsamic cranberry glaze, quick balsamic cranberry braise, best balsamic cranberry recipe, cranberry balsamic braised pork, balsamic cranberry chicken braise, low carb balsamic cranberry, sugar-free balsamic cranberry, vegan balsamic cranberry braise, savory balsamic cranberry side, balsamic glazed cranberries