Combine salt, pepper and dried spices. Season roast with spice blend on all sides.
Optional - Heat oil in a skillet. Sear the roast, browning each side for 4 – 5 minutes. Searing helps seal in the moisture, though if you are pressed for time, you can skip this step with little loss of flavour.
To your slow cooker add carrots, onions, root vegetables, celery (if using), and garlic.
Place meat on top of vegetables in the crock pot, then add the broth and balsamic vinegar. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
After 8 hours, pour off the liquid, through a mesh strainer, and into a medium pot. Heat over medium-high heat, bringing to a simmer.
In a small bowl combine water and starch, mixing to blend smooth. Add starch mixture to the medium pot, stirring to blend and thicken the gravy.
Pour gravy over beef and vegetables and serve. Enjoy!