Melt butter in a large heavy pot on medium-high heat.
Place chuck roast in pot and season on all sides.
Sear on each side for about 5 minutes on each side, until a nice dark char (but not burned) surface forms.
Transfer seared roast to slow cooker. If roasting in the oven instead, use the same pot.
Layer the vegetables all around the roast. Add all remaining ingredients
Cover and cook in a slow cooker on low heat for 8 - 9 hours OR roast in an oven heated to 275 F degrees for 2 - 3 hours (135 C degrees).
Plate the roast and vegetables.
Garnish with sprigs of fresh thyme and rosemary, and sprinkling of minced Italian parsley.
Mangia and Buon Appetito!