Easy Good Luck Beef Dinner-New Year’s Day Family Tradition

Name: Easy Good Luck Beef Dinner - New Year's Day Family Tradition
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 1 (2 to 3) pound bone-in beef shoulder roast, untrimmed; 32 ounces (about 4 1/2 cups) sauerkraut (do not drain or rinse); 1 1/2 cups tomato juice; 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated; 1 tart apple, peeled, cored, and chopped; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; Mashed potatoes, for serving, optional; Prepared horseradish, for serving, optional

Posted on January 7, 2026

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The Easy Good Luck Dinner My Family Makes Every Single New Year’s Day is more than just a meal; it’s a cherished ritual, a comforting embrace, and the most delicious way to usher in a brand new year. For as long as I can remember, the aroma of this special dish has filled our home on January 1st, a promise of prosperity and happiness for the twelve months ahead. It’s not about elaborate ingredients or complex techniques; its magic lies in its simplicity and the collective joy it brings. We all gather in the kitchen, or at least hover nearby, anticnon-alcoholic ipating that first spoonful. What makes this particular recipe so beloved is its inherent ability to bring everyone together, creating a tangible sense of togetherness and tradition. It’s the taste of home, the essence of family, and the undeniable feeling of optimism all rolled into one perfect, comforting plate. This Easy Good Luck Dinner My Family Makes Every Single New Year’s Day is the highlight of our festive culinary cnon-alcoholic alendar.

Table of Contents

Ingredients:

1 (2 to 3) pound bone-in beef shoulder roast, untrimmed
32 ounces (about 4 1/2 cups) sauerkraut (do not drain or rinse)
1 1/2 cups tomato juice
2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
1 tart apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Mashed potatoes, for serving, optional
Prepared horseradish, for serving, optional

Preparing the Roast

Step 1: Season the Beef

Begin extract by patting your bone-in beef shoulder roast completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving a good sear, which locks in juices and develops a delicious crust. Once dry, generously season all sides of the roast with salt and the freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the salt; it’s a significant flavor enhancer, especially for a larger cut of meat like this. For an extra layer of flavor, you can also add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder if you like, though the classic recipe relies on the simplicity of salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola oil. Once the oil is shimmering and almost smoking, carefully place the seasoned beef roast into the hot pot. Sear the roast on all sides until a deep, golden-brown crust forms. This process typically takes about 3 to 4 minutes per side. You want a good color all around to maximize that Maillard reaction goodness. This searing not only adds flavor but also helps to create a beautiful presentation. Remove the seared roast from the pot and set it aside on a plate.

Building the Flavor Base

Step 3: Sauté Aromatics and Apple

In the same pot used for searing, still over medium-high heat, you’ll add your grated carrots and chopped tart apple. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, untilgin extractey begin to soften and the carrots start to release their sweetness. The apple will add a wonderful subtle sweetness and a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the beef and the tang of the sauerkraut. This aromatic base is key to infusing the entire dish with layers of flavor as it simmers.

Step 4: Deglaze and Add Liquids

Pour in the tomato juice and scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits stuck from searing the beef. These bits are packed with flavor and will dissolve into the liquid, creating a richer sauce. Add the brown sugar to the pot and stir until it dissolves into the tomato juice. The brown sugar will enhance the sweetness from the carrots and apple and help to tenderize the beef.

The Slow Simmer

Step 5: Combine and Cook

Return the seared beef roast to the pot, nestling it amongst the carrots and apple. Now, it’s time for the sauerkraut. Carefully spoon the entire 32-ounce container of undrained sauerkraut over and around the beef. Do not drain or rinse the sauerkraut; the brine it’s packed in is full of flavor and essential for the dish. Pour any accumulated juices from the plate the roast was resting on into the pot as well. Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, cover the pot tightly with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 2 to 3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. The exact cooking time will depend on the thickness of your roast. You’re looking for the meat to easily pull apart. Every 30-45 minutes, you can baste the roast with the liquid in the pot to keep it moist and flavorful.

Step 6: Resting and Serving

Once the beef is incredibly tender, carefully remove the roast from the pot and place it on a clean cutting board. Tent it loosely with foil and let it rest for at least 10-15 minutes. This resting period is crucial for allowing the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and tender result. While the roast rests, you can skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid if desired. The sauerkraut mixture will have thickened slightly and will be wonderfully savory. Serve slices of the tender beef alongside the sauerkraut mixture. This dish is traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes, which are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. A dollop of prepared horseradish on the side adds a welcome kick of spice for those who enjoy it. Enjoy this hearty and comforting meal!

Conclusion:

And there you have it – the secret to my family’s beloved The Easy Good Luck Dinner My Family Makes Every Single New Year’s Day! This dish is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition steeped in flavor and good wishes, meant to usher in a prosperous year. We’ve explored how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special, a comforting and delicious way to celebrate the start of a new year. I hope you’ll find it as delightful to make and share as we do.

For serving, this hearty dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad to balance the richness, or crusty bread for soaking up every last drop of the flavorful sauce. You can also elevate it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives. As for variations, feel free to experiment! Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a subtle kick, or you could incorporate different vegetables like peas or corn for added texture and color. The beauty of The Easy Good Luck Dinner My Family Makes Every Single New Year’s Day lies in its adaptability.

I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try. It’s a wonderful way to create your own traditions and make lasting memories in the kitchen. Don’t be intimidated; it’s designed for ease, and the joy it brings is immense.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make The Easy Good Luck Dinner My Family Makes Every Single New Year’s Day ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely! This dish often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. You can prepare it fully and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the oven.

What if I don’t have all the specific ingredients for The Easy Good Luck Dinner My Family Makes Every Single New Year’s Day?

While the recipe is designed for specific flavors, many substitutions work well. For example, if you don’t have beef, a good quality chicken or even firm tofu can be used. Similarly, other hearty root vegetables can often be swapped in for those listed.