How to Cook Trader Joe’s Braised Beef Roast to Tender Perfection

Trader Joe’s braised beef roast with demi glace is a fan favorite for good reason – it’s insanely tender beef bathed in a rich, flavorful gravy For only $1399, it’s a major time-saver with gourmet results. But to get the most out of this convenient shortcut, you need to know how to cook it properly.

Follow these simple steps to cook Trader Joe’s braised beef roast so it turns out melt-in-your-mouth tender every time

Ingredients

• 1 package Trader Joe’s Braised Beef Roast with Demi Glace (about 1 lb beef)
• Additional ingredients as desired (see serving suggestions below)

Step 1: Remove Packaging and Pat Dry

Remove the braised beef roast from its packaging and blot any excess moisture with paper towels, Getting rid of excess moisture helps achieve better browning when cooking,

Step 2: Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Heat an oven-safe skillet or braising pan over medium-high heat. Add a thin layer of oil to prevent sticking.

Step 3. Sear the Roast

Once the pan and oil are hot, add the roast and sear for 2-3 minutes per side. This helps develop flavor via the Maillard reaction. Don’t worry if the meat sticks a bit at first, it will release once a crust forms.

Step 4. Transfer to Oven

Once seared on both sides, transfer the pan to the preheated oven. Roast for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

Step 5. Make Sauce from Drippings

When the roast is done, transfer it to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm. Place the hot pan on the stovetop. Pour in about 1/2 cup beef broth and 1 tbsp flour. Whisk together, scraping up any browned bits in the pan.

Step 6. Slice and Serve

Thinly slice the rested roast across the grain. Serve drizzled with the sauce from the pan.

That’s all it takes for perfect, fork-tender trader Joe’s braised beef roast! Now let’s look at some serving suggestions.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile roast pairs well with many flavors. Consider serving it:

• With mashed potatoes – The rich meat and gravy is delicious with fluffy spuds.

• Over egg noodles – For a beef stroganoff vibe.

• On sandwiches – Sliced thin on crusty baguettes.

• Over rice – Try it over risotto or coconut rice.

• With roasted veggies – Like carrots, Brussels sprouts, or broccoli.

• In tacos – Dice or shred the meat and pile into tortillas.

• In salads – Thin slices on top of leafy greens.

• With Yorkshire pudding – A British classic pairing.

• As a French dip – Piled high on crusty rolls for dipping in the jus.

• With horseradish or mustard – For a kick of flavor.

• With roasted garlic – For extra richness.

However you choose to use it, just follow these tips for preparing the perfect trader Joe’s braised beef roast:

• Pat the roast dry before searing

• Make sure the pan and oil are very hot before searing

• Sear on both sides to build flavor

• Use a meat thermometer to confirm doneness

• Make a simple pan sauce from the drippings

• Let meat rest before slicing for maximum juiciness

• Slice across the grain for tender slices

With this reliable roasting method, you can enjoy gourmet beef roast on a weeknight budget. Trader Joe’s makes it even easier by pre-braising the beef to perfect tenderness.

Once you’ve mastered the basics, try getting creative with additional ingredients and sauces. The possibilities are endless!

Here are a few recipe ideas to inspire you:

Fancy French Onion Braised Beef Roast

• Sear roast in oil as directed
• Remove roast, then cook sliced onions in the pan drippings until caramelized
• Deglaze pan with sherry and beef broth
• Add roast back and top with toasted bread and melted gruyere

Braised Roast with Mushroom Gravy

• While roast cooks, sauté mushrooms and shallots
• Make gravy from pan drippings
• Finish gravy with cream and chopped parsley

Chipotle Braised Roast Tacos

• Shred roasted beef
• Warm in sauce of chipotles in adobo, lime juice and cilantro
• Pile on corn tortillas with fixings like avocado and red onion

The combination of tender beef and built-in gravy makes this roast a blank canvas for global flavors.

Storing Leftovers

Like any cooked meat, Trader Joe’s braised beef roast is best consumed within 3-4 days.

To store leftovers:

• Let roast fully cool first.
• Divide meat and sauce into shallow airtight containers.
• Refrigerate promptly after cooking.

To reheat:

• Place meat and sauce in a pan with a splash of water.
• Cover and heat slowly over medium-low, stirring occasionally.
• Or reheat individual portions in the microwave.

With proper storage, you can enjoy several more quick meals from one Trader Joe’s braised roast.

Is It Worth It?

For less than $15, this shortcut roast saves you hours of cooking time while still delivering tender, flavorful beef bathed in luscious gravy. It’s much cheaper than takeout and tastier than many homemade braised roasts.

As long as you follow the simple steps for searing, roasting, and sauce-making, you can enjoy restaurant-quality beef roast any night of the week.

Trader Joe’s does all the long braising then vacuum seals it at the peak of tenderness. All you have to do is quickly reheat and sear for added flavor. It’s a terrific value for time-strapped home cooks.

The convenience does come at a small cost in texture since the long-braised meat doesn’t quite achieve the same fall-apart shred of a slowly braised pot roast. But it comes impressively close for a ready-made shortcut.

Your best bet is buying it with an open mind – appreciating it for what it is instead of comparing to homemade. When viewed as the fast, flavorful time-saver it’s meant to be, Trader Joe’s braised beef roast is a winner weeknight dinner.

The Verdict? Worth Buying!

For delicious beef roast in about 30 minutes flat, look no further than this shortcut in the refrigerated section. Following the simple steps above will reward you with fork-tender meat napped in rich gravy.

The flavor and ease can’t be beat for the price point. Just sear hot, roast gentle, rest adequately, and slice properly to get the very best results.

With such an easy path to gourmet beef roast, there’s no reason not to enjoy this tasty Trader Joe’s treat anytime cravings strike. Braised beef roast has never been so achievable for the everyday home chef. Grab one on your next TJ’s run!