Simple Pot Roast Dinner

Maybe not so simple.

This is a piece of beef that was perfect for braising. It could have had a little more fat in it but I compensated by studding it with garlic cloves. Then I marinated it in red wine for about two days. I added vegetables, also known in the trade as ' Mirepoix' with some garlic and herbs. This adds flavor to any piece of beef or pork no matter what the cut or quality. After it marinated I drained the wine off and braised it in the usual manner using the vegetables and wine from the marinade in the cooking process.

The carrots are also known as ' Carrot Vichy ' which is a classic in the french culinary repertoire. You make this dish by peeling and slicing the carrots. I used a channel knife on these for presentation but it is not necessary really. You then cover them with water and add sugar , butter and a little salt and bring them to the boil. Cook on a medium heat until al dente then remove them from the liquid. Reduce the liquid until you get a concentrated finish of butter and carrot juice. Then return the carrots to the pot and finish cooking. You will end up with intensely flavored , shiny carrots which are perfect for both taste and presentation. Add a little chopped parsley.

The mash here is a celery root mash with bacon bits and chopped scallions.