Pot Roast

(1.5-2 kg) chuck roast, rump roast, boneless bottom or eye of round or brisket

salt and freshly ground black pepper

canola or olive oil, for cooking?1 onion, peeled, halved and thinly sliced

garlic cloves, crushed or chopped

beef, onion or chicken stock

red wine (optional)

balsamic vinegar

couple sprigs of fresh thyme or rosemary (or both)

carrots, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces

new or fingerling potatoes