Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Start by rounding up all your ingredients. This little step saves you time and helps avoid those last-minute dashes around the kitchen.
Step 2: Prepare the Cooking Liquid
- In a medium bowl, mix the dry Italian seasoning, basil, oregano, parsley, crushed red pepper, garlic granules, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper. This combination is your flavor powerhouse! Next, whisk in the balsamic vinegar and water until well combined. This will create a savory broth that will infuse your beef with deliciousness.
Step 3: Season the Beef
- Place the rump roast in your slow cooker. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the beef, ensuring it’s well-coated. Don’t be shy; rub it in for good measure!
Step 4: Add the Liquid
- Pour the prepared broth over the seasoned beef. You want to cover it well, allowing all those beautiful flavors to seep in. Toss in the bay leaf for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 5: Set Your Slow Cooker
- Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for 8 to 10 hours. Alternatively, if you’re in a hurry, you could set it on high for 4 to 5 hours. It’s just that simple!
Step 6: Shred the Beef
- Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the roast from the slow cooker. It should be incredibly tender and easy to shred. Use two forks to pull the meat apart. Return the shredded beef to the cooker and mix it back with the juices.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- This is the moment you’ve been waiting for! Serve the Italian beef on crusty bread, over pasta, or even on a bed of polenta. I promise it will be a hit.
Notes
- Choose Quality Meat: The better the quality of beef, the tastier your dish will be. Look for a well-marbled piece for the best results.
- Add Veggies: Throw in some sliced bell peppers or onions in the last hour of cooking for extra flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Broth: Using water is fine, but beef broth will add deeper flavor.
- Slice or Shred?: It’s all about preference! Slicing gives a different texture, while shredding ensures every bite is soaked in sauce.
- Make it Ahead: Prepare everything the night before and simply turn on the slow cooker in the morning.
