Pat your 3-4 lbs beef roast dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This simple step ensures a beautiful crust when seared.
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the roast and sear each side for about 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Remove the roast and set it aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add the sliced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pot. Stir frequently, cooking until the onion softens and the mixture becomes fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Pour in 1 cup beef broth, 1/4 cup soy sauce, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 2 tablespoons sesame oil. Stir to combine, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. This base will infuse the roast with the signature Korean flavor profile.
Nestle the roast back into the pot. Surround it with sliced carrots and halved baby potatoes. These will cook alongside the meat, soaking up all that delicious sauce.
Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for 3-4 hours, turning the roast once halfway through to ensure even cooking. The meat should be fork-tender and the vegetables soft.
Once done, remove the roast and vegetables to a serving platter. Stir the sauce in the pot and cook uncovered for a few minutes if you’d like to thicken it slightly. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Slice the roast and drizzle with the rich sauce. Sprinkle chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds over the top for a fresh, nutty finish. Serve alongside your favorite mashed potatoes or steamed rice.