Learn to Slow Cook Beef with Caterer Sara Fougere

This article is presented in partnership with the Missouri Beef Council

Sara Fougere estimates that 75 percent of her recipe collection calls for beef. There’s a lot she can do with the versatile ingredient. As a professional caterer, Sara knows what people want and what to prepare for any occasion, no matter the season.

Growing up on the family farm, Sara developed a love for feeding people, and beef was a staple in the diet. She, along with her mother, cooked for their farm employees. This experience foreshadowed her later career.

Years later, Sara began her own catering business. She often uses a slow cooker or crockpot to create special meals with ease.

Now, the season is right for slow cooking. As people look to these slow-cooking methods during the fall months, beef is a perfect ingredient, Sara says.

“Slow cooking allows people to use less expensive cuts of meats,” she says. A chuck roast, she notes, can be tenderized for any specific use—it only takes a little time.

These one-dish meals, which can be left in a crockpot or slow cooker to simmer all day, fit into busy lifestyles, especially for families trying to keep up with those fall school activities.

“This is great for those who want something at different times or who want to serve themselves,” she says.

Creating these meals can be much easier than you think, Sara says.

There is no need to hover or watch the food cook. There’s no need to stay home and tend to the meal– the pot cooks it for you.

As the season for cooking outside comes to a close, warming the home with the aroma of a slow-cooked meal takes center stage.

Sara says slow-cooked crockpot meals can be enjoyed throughout the day. For example, she recommends a slow-cooked beef sandwich. As the meat tenderizes (to the point that two forks can tear it apart), family and friends can enjoy a meal at their convenience.

Sara recommends trying new recipes in the crockpot. It’s easy on the budget and ideal for large families, she says.

“I always encourage people to experiment with recipes and try new food,” Sara says. “Growing up, it brought me joy and made me a good caterer.”

Slow Cooker Beef Sandwiches

• 1 beef chuck roast,
• 3-4 pounds
• 1 can beef broth
• 3 tablespoons Italian seasoning
• ½ cup water
• 1 16-ounce jar sliced pepperoncini peppers, with juice
• Sandwich rolls of your choice
• Sliced provolone cheese

Directions >

1. Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until meat is tender and can be easily shredded with two forks.
3. Holds great in the slow cooker for guests to make sandwiches as they please.