We made 1.5 pounds of roast and used the recommendation of adding onion powder and garlic powder (a 1/2 teaspoon of each). We left out the salt (and plan to add it back in next time). The meat was tender but we felt it was still a little bland. We will try adding jalapeno or pepperoncini next time to see if it livens up the recipe. Definitely will make again but add in a few more tweaks.