Directions

1. Place meat in a large plastic bag.

2. In a large bowl, thoroughly combine vinegar, wine, water, onions, celery, carrots, pepper, cloves, bay leaves, sugar and salt; pour over meat. Fasten bag tightly and lay flat in a 9" X 13" pan. Refrigerate 2-3 days, turning bag each day. (If you like sour sauerbraten, let marinate for 4 days.)

3. When ready to cook, remove meat (saving marinade) and dry well.

4. Rub the surface lightly with flour.

5. In a Dutch oven, heat oil and slowly brown the meat well on all sides.

6. Add 1 cup of the marinade liquid plus some of the vegetables and bay leaves.

7. Cover tightly and simmer on surface heat or in a preheated 350° F oven for 3 to 4 hours until the meat is fork tender.

8. If needed, add more marinade during the cooking time to keep at least 1/2 inch liquid in the Dutch oven.

9. Remove the meat and keep warm until ready to slice.

10. Into a large measuring cup, strain the drippings. Add several ice cubes and let stand for a few minutes until the fat separates out. Remove the fat, then make the gravy.
    
    
    TO MAKE THE GRAVY:
    In the Dutch oven, combine the gravy ingredients, stir and cook for about 5 minutes over medium heat until gravy has thickened. Taste for seasonings and adjust if necessary. This makes about 3 cups of gravy.
    
    
    This delicious roast takes several days to marinade, so plan ahead!
    
    Note: Serves 8