Frequently Asked Questions
What cut of beef is best for this slow cooker recipe?
The recipe specifically calls for a 3-4 lb eye of round roast for the best results.
How long should I cook the roast in the slow cooker?
The roast should be cooked on the LOW setting for approximately 8 hours until it is fork-tender.
Is it necessary to sear the roast before putting it in the slow cooker?
Yes, searing the roast for 3-4 minutes on each side helps lock in flavor and improves the final texture.
What type of soup is used for the gravy base?
A 10-ounce can of undiluted cream of mushroom soup is used to create a rich and creamy gravy.
Can I use regular beef broth instead of low sodium?
While you can use regular broth, low-sodium beef broth is recommended to control the saltiness of the dish.
What size slow cooker is needed for this recipe?
A 5-6 quart slow cooker is the ideal size for a 3-4 lb eye of round roast.
How do I thicken the gravy if it is too thin?
You can create a slurry of equal parts water and cornstarch and whisk it into the liquid in a saucepan over medium heat.
Should the cream of mushroom soup be diluted?
No, the cream of mushroom soup should be added to the mixture undiluted.
What kind of onion soup mix is recommended?
A 1-ounce packet of dry onion soup mix is used, and the onion-mushroom flavor is preferred.
Can I add fresh onions to this dish?
Yes, if you are an onion enthusiast, you can add chopped fresh onions for an extra burst of flavor.
Is garlic powder required for the flour coating?
Garlic powder is optional in the flour mixture, but it can be used to enhance the flavor of the crust.
What is the purpose of dredging the roast in flour?
Dredging the roast in seasoned flour helps create a nice crust during searing and helps thicken the sauce as it cooks.
How much garlic should I use?
The recipe suggests using 1 to 2 tablespoons of fresh minced garlic.
Can I cook this roast on the High setting for a shorter time?
For the best tenderness with an eye of round roast, it is highly recommended to cook it on LOW for 8 hours.
Why shouldn't I lift the lid while the roast is cooking?
Lifting the lid lets heat escape and can significantly increase the cooking time and affect the tenderness of the meat.
What side dishes go well with this roast?
Fluffy mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to soak up the rich gravy.
How much Worcestershire sauce is needed?
One tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce is used to add depth to the gravy mixture.
What kind of oil should I use for searing?
You can use 3-4 tablespoons of any standard cooking oil suitable for medium-high heat searing.
How much beef broth is included in the recipe?
The recipe uses one 10-ounce can of low-sodium beef broth.
Can I use this recipe for a smaller roast?
Yes, but you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly to ensure it doesn't overcook.
Does the recipe contain black pepper?
Yes, 1 teaspoon of black pepper is mixed with the flour for seasoning the roast.
How do I know when the roast is perfectly cooked?
The roast is done when it reaches a fork-tender consistency after the 8-hour cooking period.
Is this a good meal for a family gathering?
Absolutely, this savory roast is described as an ideal centerpiece for any family meal.
What is the first step of the preparation?
The first step is combining the soup, broth, onion mix, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.
Should I pour the sauce over the roast in the slow cooker?
Yes, after placing the roast in the slow cooker, spoon the remaining broth mixture generously over the meat.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, you would need to use a gluten-free flour for dredging and ensure your soup and soup mix are certified gluten-free.
What is the primary flavor profile of this dish?
The dish is savory and rich, featuring deep flavors of onion, garlic, and mushroom.
How much flour is used for the coating?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of flour to coat the roast.
Is this considered comfort food?
Yes, the recipe description highlights it as the ultimate in comfort food.
Do I need to add water to the slow cooker?
No additional water is needed as the soup and beef broth provide the necessary liquid for cooking.