½tspof dried thymeplus some for seasoning the meat
4clovesof garlicdiced finely
1tspcrushed red pepperoptional
2cupsof ketchup
¼cupof brown sugar
2tbspof molasses
1tbspof red wine vinegar
1tspdried mustard
½tsppaprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1cupof beef broth
Hamburger buns
French's fried onions
Instructions
Sear the beef by adding the olive oil to a small Dutch oven and heat over medium-high heat. Season the chuck roast with sea salt, freshly cracked pepper, and thyme, to taste on both sides. Sear the meat on all sides for 1-2 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove the beef and place it on a plate.
Make the sauce by cooking bacon in the same Dutch oven over medium heat. Once it's finished, place it on a paper towel to drain then crumble.
In the same skillet, add the thyme and onion to the bacon grease and saute for 2-3 minutes or until the onion is soft.
Add garlic and red pepper then cook, stirring frequently, for 30-45 seconds. Add the remaining ingredients, including the bacon crumbles, and mix thoroughly, cook for about 20 minutes so flavors combine.
Preheat oven to 300 degrees.
Cook the beef by combining the beef broth, seared chuck roast, and half the barbecue sauce in the same small Dutch oven. Place into the oven to bake for 3-4 hours; make sure you check the meat every once in a while, if the liquid is getting low add more beef broth.
Remove the beef from the oven and go through the meat to remove any fat. Add the remaining barbecue sauce and mix thoroughly until the meat is shredded and evenly coated with the sauce. Taste and re-season with salt and pepper if needed.
Make the sandwiches by cooking the French's Fried Onions in the oven for just a few minutes - watch them carefully because they will burn easily.
Toast the buns if preferred. Pile the shredded beef on the bottom bun and top with crunchy onions and top bun. Enjoy!