I take about a 3 lb. beef roast, rub sugar...then flour over both sides. Brown both sides in some oil in an electric skillet. Place in a roasting pan and lay carrots across the top. Add about 1 cup of water. Bake on 325 degrees for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until tender. The sugar helps to make a nice gravey when thickened. I always add a little kitchen bouquet when making the gravey as well. If you want, I have also added the water and carrotts on top of the roast in the electric skillet and totally cooked it in the skillet. Turn it down low and let it go. You may have to add a little water now and then when cooking it this way.