Diet & Fitness

Chuck Roast

Also indexed as: Arm Pot Roast, Chuck Arm Roast, Chuck-Eye Roast, Cross Rib Roast, Pot Roast

Buying Tips

Look for chuck roast that has a clear, red color. Beef normally is a purple-red, but when exposed to oxygen it takes on a cherry-red hue known as the “bloom.” While the exterior is bright red, the interior of the meat retains this darker color. Vacuum-packed chuck roast also shows this purplish color. Packaged chuck roast should be cold and the packaging free of punctures or tears; vacuum-packed steak should have its seal intact. The beef should be firm to the touch. Check the label for the “sell-by” date and make sure to buy it before or on that date.

Varieties

Chuck Arm Roast

Cut from near the top of the chuck, arm roast holds a large round bone and many small muscles.

Cross Rib Roast

Also called Boston cut or English cut, this is a square roast with two or three ribs and a pocket of seam fat. When boneless, it’s called an English roll.

Chuck-Eye Roast

Made up of a single muscle, this is one of the more tender chuck roasts.

Preparation, Uses, & Tips

Chuck roast can be cooked whole or cut into pieces for stew meat. Either way, it should be cooked using moist heat to break down the connective tissues.

To braise, heat oil over the stovetop in a heavy pan. Brown chuck roast or stew meat in batches on all sides. Lower the heat and add cooking liquid and seasonings if desired. Cover, bring the liquid to simmer, and cook over low heat on the stovetop or in the oven. Cook until the roast is fork tender 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size of the roast.

Storing

Store chuck roast in its original packaging in the coldest part of the refrigerator, where it will keep for three to four days. It may be frozen in this packaging for up to two weeks. For longer storage, wrap the meat in heavy-duty aluminum foil, freezer paper, or freezer bags. Chuck roast will keep six to twelve months in the freezer. Defrost in the refrigerator, allowing 24 to 48 hours, depending on size. Cook as soon as possible after defrosting.

Nutrition Highlights

Chuck roast (fat trimmed to 1/4 inch [0.6cm], braised), 3oz. (85.05g)

Calories: 282.2
Protein: 23.3g
Carbohydrate: 0.0g
Total Fat: 20.2g
Fiber: 0.0g

Food Guide